32nd Annual Smilin’ Irishman Contest & Parade Fundraiser

Don’t worry, the only injury an Irishman may suffer at this event is bruised pride! The Smilin’ Irishman Contest is the largest fundraiser for the St Patties Day Parade, and the biggest celebration & competition of Irish wit, wisdom, and wherewithal!

You may be wondering, “what is ‘The Smilin’ Irishman’?”

Basically, it’s the person who raises the most money for the St Patricks Day Parade. Their reward is the right to stand at the front of the parade and rub it in their fellow Irishmen’s faces! Previous winners describe it a bit like being the mayor of Irish San Diego!

Vying for the title of Smilin’ Irishman are the county’s most prominent Irish organizations, including the Firefighters Emerald Society, Law Enforcement Emerald Society, Ancient Order of Hibernians, and of course, the Irish Congress of Southern California.

facebook.com

From the organizers:

“Despite our FSOSP contender Brian Brady’s Blarney and Bravado, he’s gonna need to bolster his war-chest pre-event, or risk crimping that liltish smile of his and our dear organization’s! Remember, this is a Chicago-style election and he with the mo$t vote$ win$!!”

An explanation from Brian Brady himself:

There will also be a raffle with all kinds of prizes, food and drink specials from McGregor’s and the HIGHLY spirited lyrical stylings of Tony Cummins and Brendan Kennedy!

Grab your crew and head on out for a good time and a good cause.

See you there!

 

 

Share This Event
Event Details
The Latest
big list of things to do in san diego this weekend
Check out this week’s Big List of Things to Do in San Diego this weekend and make your plans! From flying kites by the beach...
Montbleau Estate
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of ocean views, incredible food, and meaningful connection—because the 2025 Wildcoast Baja Bash is back! This year’s event honors...
kate hudson
Here are the top concerts in San Diego this week! Catch Kate Hudson’s dynamic rock debut, emo veterans The Used lighting up the stage, and...
Lionfish San Diego
The Craving is all about helping you satisfy your craving for the best from San Diego’s local food scene. Come back every week for the...
Coastal Roots Farm taste of the farm fundraiser
Coastal Roots Farm is turning 10—and they’re celebrating the milestone in true farm-to-fork style. Join the nonprofit community farm for Taste of the Farm, a...
Estancia La Jolla tea in the garden series
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is debuting its enchanting new Tea in the Garden series—a seasonal high-tea experience held one Sunday a month in...
Event Details
Upcoming Events
Taste of Eastlake
July 25, 2025
6:00 pm
The Taste of Eastlake is back, so mark your calendars and get ready to round up your crew for an evening of incredible eats, drinks,...
SeaWorld San Diego’s Summer Spectacular Concert Series
June 21, 2025
6:00 pm
  • SeaWorld San Diego
Get ready for the ultimate summer soundtrack—SeaWorld San Diego’s Summer Spectacular Concert Series is back, delivering an epic lineup of iconic artists from the ‘90s...
EO Rise San Diego
June 19, 2025
6:00 pm
  • USS Midway Museum
San Diego’s entrepreneurial spirit is getting a serious boost this summer with EO Rise—a premier learning and networking event designed for ambitious business owners who...
2025 Forging Futures Gala
May 31, 2025
6:00 pm
  • USS Midway Museum
The Forging Futures Gala returns, bringing together community leaders, military supporters, and industry professionals for an unforgettable evening aboard the USS Midway Museum. Hosted by...
Catalina Wine Mixer
May 30, 2025
5:00 pm
The Catalina Wine Mixer is officially turning 10! One of SoCal’s most legendary parties is back, bringing two full days of live music, curated wine...
Event Search: