Portland Irish Céilí: Live Music and Dancing for $5-$15

Photo by Andrew Simmons, courtesy of John Whelan.

Looking for a fun, affordable way to spend a Friday night in Portland? Try your hand at Irish social dancing with live music from one of Ireland’s most accomplished accordion players.

On Friday, November 20, Portland Set Dancing hosts its monthly 3rd Friday Céilí, featuring seven-time All-Ireland champion accordionist John Whelan. The all-ages event welcomes everyone, from first-time dancers to seasoned regulars.

Admission is pay what you can, with suggested contributions of $15 for adults and $5 for students. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Portland’s 3rd Friday Irish Céilí

A céilí (pronounced KAY-lee) is a traditional Irish social gathering centered around music and group dancing. You don’t need a partner, special shoes or any previous dance experience to join in.

The evening begins with a beginner-friendly dance lesson at 7 p.m. Throughout the night, experienced callers will teach and guide participants through traditional Irish set dances, including South Galway, Caledonian, Kilfenora and Moycullen.

Providing the live music is John Whelan, a seven-time All-Ireland champion button accordionist with more than 50 years of professional experience. Whelan has recorded more than 15 albums, twice earned Musician of the Year honors from the Irish Music Association and performed with fiddler Eileen Ivers during the early years of Riverdance.

Local dance instructor Maldon Meehan and fellow callers, including a guest from Seattle, will lead the evening.

The event wraps up with Golden Hour, a full hour of dancing with minimal instruction for those ready to put their new moves into practice. Featured dances include Ballyvourney, Lancers and Connemara.

Whether you stay for the beginner lesson or dance all evening, the céilí offers an affordable opportunity to experience traditional Irish music and meet people in Portland.

Date, Time and Location

• Date: Friday, November 20, 2026

• Time: 7–10 p.m. Beginner lesson starts at 7 p.m.

• Location: Waverly Heights Congregational Church, 3300 SE Woodward St., Portland

• Cost: Pay what you can. Suggested $15 general admission or $5 for students.

• Ages: All ages welcome.

• What to bring: No partner or previous experience required.

For more information, visit the Portland Set Dancing event page.

John Whelan Irish Music Workshop

Want to learn from the visiting musician? John Whelan will also lead a tune workshop in Portland on Saturday, November 21, at 1:30 p.m.

The workshop costs $35, and advance registration is required. Space is limited.

Contact Maldon Meehan through the Portland Set Dancing website to reserve a spot and receive location details.

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