SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – As we spring into March Wednesday, Springfield was flying high with Irish pride Tuesday night! Many tapping into their heritage during the 4th annual Colleen Ceili.

It was an opportunity for this year’s local Colleens to learn more about their roots at the John Boyle O’Reilly Club. The Black Rose Academy of Irish Dance taught four of the most popular Ceili group dances.

The Colleens learned the 3s, and 7s, then put them together in the Gay Gordon, Siege of Ennis, Walls of Limerick, and Highland Fling. This event was an opportunity for the Colleens from each town to learn more about their Irish heritage and to prepare for the “High Holy Days” of Green Season.

Those in attendance told 22News it was the perfect way to prepare for the “High Holy Days” of Green Season. “Irish step dancing is a big part of our culture. Centuries old and it’s something we really do cherish,” said Richard Devine, Previous President of the John O’Reilly Club. “And they will learn the basic steps and they’ll be ready to go for the month of March.”

You will be able to see the 2023 Colleen Court on Sunday, March 19 during the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade right here on 22News. And the 46th St. Patrick’s Road Race will be held just before that, on Saturday, March 18th.