Canada-Ireland 180 - Major Season of Contemporary Irish Arts and Culture Across Canada in 2027
- Published on: 6 February 2026
- Last updated on: 6 February 2026
A new cultural initiative has been launched by Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, as part of his recent visit to Toronto and Ottawa. Canada-Ireland 180 will be a major season of contemporary Irish arts in Canada in 2027, delivered in partnership by Culture Ireland and the Embassy of Ireland to Canada. Expressions of interest are now sought from artists and cultural organisations looking to participate in the programme of events.
Canada-Ireland 180 is a major cultural and commemorative initiative marking 180 years since 1847, a defining moment in the shared history of Ireland and Canada. As a result of the Great Famine, over 100,000 Irish people migrated to Canada in search of a better life. Anchored in the memory of Black '47 and the Irish famine migration to Canada, the initiative will bring together artists, historians, cultural institutions, creatives, policy makers, and communities from across Canada and Ireland through a dynamic blend of flagship events, cultural showcases, academic reflection, and community-led cultural programming.
Speaking on the Canada-Ireland 180 season, Minister O'Donovan said:
"I am pleased that between my Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade a minimum of €1.2m ($1.95 CAD) will be provided for the initiative. This is a significant investment by the Government of Ireland which reflects the importance of our relationship and historical ties with Canada as well as acknowledging the opportunities available for Irish artists in this vast country."
Culture Ireland and the Embassy of Ireland in Canada aim to develop Canadian audiences for Irish arts and Irish-Canadian cultural partnerships and collaborations, by presenting a vibrant, contemporary, diverse, and high-quality programme across artistic disciplines in a variety of locations, from intimate to high-profile venues, as well as institutions and festivals.
Expressions of interest are now sought from artists, ensembles and cultural organisations to participate in an Irish season of arts and culture in Canada in 2027. The programme aims to showcase, across Canada, the richness of talent in contemporary Irish arts and culture.
Additional information and eligibility criteria can be found on the Canada-Ireland 180 call for expressions of interest here.
Canada-Ireland 180 is a collaborative partnership between Culture Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, building on the success and learnings of the award-winning Zeitgeist Irland 24 initiative, delivered across Germany in 2024.