JACKSONVILLE, AL – Jacksonville State University will host Irish Christmas in America on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, at 8 p.m. at the Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts (ROC), offering audiences an evening of traditional Irish music, dance, storytelling and holiday customs.
Now in its 21st season, the touring production features Irish musicians, vocalists and dancers presenting a family-friendly program that explores Christmas traditions from across Ireland. The performance combines traditional instrumental music, seasonal songs, old-style Irish dance and storytelling, accompanied by photography depicting Irish holiday customs and cultural heritage.
The production is led by Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, who has produced the show since its inception in 2005. The program introduces American audiences to both familiar and lesser-known Irish Christmas traditions through music, humor and historical storytelling.
The 2026 ensemble includes vocalists Laura Jo and Jack Warnock; Mac Diarmada on fiddle; Caoimhín Ó Fearghaíl on flute and uilleann pipes; Gráinne Hambly on harp; and Samantha Harvey performing old-style Irish dance.
Over its two decades of performances, Irish Christmas in America has featured numerous guest vocalists, including Cathy Jordan, Caitríona Sherlock, Niamh Farrell, Séamus and Méabh Begley, Teresa Horgan, Lumiere, Cara Dillon, Karan Casey, Michael Londra and Cathy Ryan.
The production emphasizes the role of music, dance and oral traditions in preserving Irish cultural heritage across generations. Its combination of live performances and visual presentations provides audiences with an opportunity to learn about Christmas celebrations and customs in Ireland.
The performance will take place at Jacksonville State University’s Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts, a venue that hosts cultural and educational programming for the university and surrounding communities.
Tickets range from $39 to $59 and are currently available for purchase.
Event Details:
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Performance: Irish Christmas in America
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Date: Tuesday, December 1, 2026
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Time: 8 p.m.
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Location: Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts, Jacksonville State University
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Tickets: $39–$59
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Purchase Tickets: Jax State Ticket Office
Additional information about Jacksonville State University and its performing arts programs is available at www.jsu.edu.
