GALA 2026
Building Our Future—2nd Annual Emerald Gala
Saturday, March 14, 2026
5 o’clock in the evening | The Hibernia, San Francisco
GALA 2026 Highlights
Emcee/Auctioneer
Franco Finn, the beloved Golden State Warriors hype man, Auctioneer, and community leader will guide the evening with energy, excitement, and heart.
Honoree
Bruce Morrison
Attorney, U.S. Congressman (1983-91), and Lifelong Advocate for Peace and Justice; 2026 Recipient of the Irish Heritage & Humanity Award
Honoree
Bret Iwan
The Voice of Mickey Mouse (since 2009), Artist, Voice Actor, Restoration Specialist; 2026 Inaugural Recipient of the Irish Arts and Innovation Award
Venue
2nd Annual Emerald Gala—Building Our Future, hosted in the breathtaking and historic Hibernia in downtown San Francisco
Irish Heritage & Humanity Award
Honoring Global Contributions to Peace, Culture, and Community
Established in 2025 to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the United Irish Cultural Center of San Francisco and express a commitment to building for our future, our Irish Heritage and Humanity Award is an annual recognition celebrating individuals who embody the values of Irish heritage through their extraordinary impact on the world. Honorees champion peace, humanitarianism, culture, and leadership in ways that uplift humanity.
One People.
One Spirit.
A Legacy for All.
Established in 2025 to honor visionary contributions at the intersection of art, culture, and creativity, the Irish Arts and Innovation Award recognizes individuals whose work reflects the enduring spirit of Irish imagination and ingenuity. Presented annually by the United Irish Cultural Center of San Francisco, this award celebrates those who embody the resilience, artistry, and leadership rooted in our shared Irish heritage.
Celebrating Creativity
Imagination
Cultural Innovation
Who We Are
Innovation for the Irish of Tomorrow began fifty years ago with a dream. Since 1975, the United Irish Cultural Center (UICC) has been committed to celebrating, promoting, and preserving the rich culture and heritage of the global Irish community. As the only center of its kind on the West Coast, the UICC’s diverse programs offer opportunities for connection, growth, and learning for everyone.
With origins in San Francisco dating back to the late 1800s and in a building that opened its doors half a century years ago, the United Irish Cultural Center thrives today as a vibrant California 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to celebrating, promoting, and preserving the rich culture and heritage of the collective local, regional, and national culture of Ireland. In order to preserve our history and ensure our future, we have launched a Campaign for Our Future—join us at this special event and be a part of the future!
The Venue
Built in 1892 The Hibernia serves as a visible anchor for the city’s storied Mid-Market neighborhood. Conveniently located just blocks from Moscone Center, BART/MUNI, popular hotels and City Hall, The Hibernia features unique Neoclassical Revival-style touches, including a grand corner location, giant exterior colonnade, and famed verdigris domed entrance. With three unique and flexible spaces, and a combined capacity over 2000 guests, the venue can accommodate and cater to events of all styles and sizes. Thoughtfully and expertly renovated in 2008, The Hibernia is the premier destination for unforgettable San Francisco events.
Located Downtown SF off Market Street at 1 Jones St.
San Francisco, CA 94102.
Emerald Gala Hotel Partner
The United Irish Cultural Center is proud to once again partner with Hotel VIA, owned by Irish American entrepreneur David O’Keeffe, a longtime member of San Francisco’s Irish community. Located just steps from Oracle Park and within easy reach of downtown San Francisco’s most iconic destinations, Hotel VIA offers Gala guests both comfort and connection to the heart of the city.
A special room rate is available exclusively for Emerald Gala guests through the link below. We are grateful to Hotel VIA for their continued partnership and support of the UICC community.
Evening Highlights
First-Class Culinary Experience
Guests will enjoy a premium, chef-crafted culinary experience.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Consider a table sponsorship package and an ad in our event program—every dollar benefits our vision for the future.
Entertainment
Live performances by world class Irish violinist Gregory Harrington, Irish musicians, and surprise guests—followed by dancing to the sounds of LIVEWIRE, the Bay Area’s premier high-energy dance cover band.
Special Guests and Honorees
Featuring distinguished leaders, Irish dignitaries, and key public figures.
Live Auction & Exclusive Experiences
Incredible once-in-a-lifetime items and experiences, all supporting the future of the Irish Cultural Center.
Reserve Your Table Today!
Emerald Gala 2025 | March 14, 2026!
Join us for an unforgettable night of celebration, culture, and community at the Irish Cultural Center’s 2nd Annual Emerald Gala—Building Our Future, hosted in the breathtaking and historic Hibernia in downtown San Francisco on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
This year, we’re elevating the experience even further. Guests will enjoy an immersive evening inside one of San Francisco’s grandest landmark buildings—an architectural masterpiece that sets the stage for a night of elegance, inspiration, and Irish spirit.
Sharing Our Vision for the Future
We are building great momentum in our Campaign for the Future: Innovation for the Irish, and we invite you to join us in investing in our long-term commitment to preserve Irish heritage, strengthen community, and build a cultural home .
Our Emerald Gala isn’t just a celebration—it’s a turning point.
Every ticket purchased directly supports the Campaign for Our Future: Innovation for the Irish, building the new Irish Cultural Center on 45th Avenue: a world-class cultural home, museum, and community hub for the future.
The Emerald Gala at The Hibernia will be a night of pride, purpose, and pure magic. Be a part of this ultimate gathering of leaders, friends, storytellers, supporters, and those who believe in the future of Irish heritage in the West.
We hope we can count on you as an event sponsor to ensure a successful event. Gala 2026 will set a stellar tone for the Campaign for Our Future, and we want you to be a part of this exciting juncture in our story.
Contact Us
Liam Reidy – 415.860.1854
Leo Cassidy – 415.244.1202
The next chapter of the UICC story will see expansion in its role in cultural preservation, education, and social engagement by providing modern, accessible spaces that embody the spirit of Ireland and Irish culture, while addressing future needs. With the unanimous support from the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, our new building will triple the existing square footage and transform the UICC into a modern and multifaceted space dedicated to culture, connection, and community.
As a distinguished event sponsor, you can take advantage of several packages including tables, tickets, recognition, and VIP access in exchange for your contribution. Please contact us to discuss our vision further or if you’d like to learn more about our available sponsorship packages.
Sponsorship Opportunities
$15,000 Table
- Premium table of 10, early entry with VIP reception/meet-and-greet with special guests, exclusive wine/cocktail service, recognition/ad space in program and on screen
$10,000 Table
- Premium table of 10, exclusive wine/cocktail service, recognition/ad space in program and on screen
$5,000 Table
- Table for 10 guests, preferential table placement, enhanced beverage service, program listing
$2,500 Table
- Table for 8 guests, program listing
All table packages include drinks, dinner, entertainment, and an unforgettable
Evening at The Hibernia, San Francisco.
Reserve Your Table Today!
Space is limited, and tables are selling quickly.
Secure your spot at this exclusive event and help us
build the future of Irish heritage.
For table reservations or to discuss
sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Call Us
Liam Reidy – 415.860.1854
Leo Cassidy – 415.244.1202
Email Us
Liam Reidy – lreidy@irishcentersf.org
Leo Cassidy – lcassidy@irishcentersf.org