The 2023 Saint Patrick Irish Hooley was a big hit as a sell-out crowd of more than 400 people, many dressed in green, showed up at the Basilica School of St. Mary gymnasium in Alexandria March 12 for a celebration of Irish music, food, drinks, dancing, and a silent auction and raffle. The event raised a record amount of money for a local charity.
The afternoon featured performances by local Irish musician Pat Garvey; the Boyle School of Irish Dance; the O’Neill James School of Irish Dance; and the City of Alexandria Pipes and Drums. The traditional fare from Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub included shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, corned beef and cabbage.
Father Edward C. Hathaway, rector, opened the Hooley with a prayer and blessed the food. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge joined the crowd in appreciating the dancing and lively music.
Organized by the Alexandria Ancient Order of Hibernians, the event was a fundraiser for Christ House, a program of diocesan Catholic Charities that provides food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless and clothing to those in need. A $9,000 check — the most ever raised by the Hooley — was presented to Sister Aniliza Juan, Christ House’s volunteer coordinator, on behalf of the basilica and the Hibernians.
