The IAHC Is an Official Festival Site
A Free Citywide Festival · October 17–18, 2026
☘️ The IAHC Is an Official OHC Site ☘️
Explore Our Historic Building — Free
The Irish American Heritage Center is proud to be an official site of Open House Chicago, the Chicago Architecture Center's free public festival that offers behind-the-scenes access to more than 200 architecturally, historically, and culturally significant sites across the city — many not normally open to the public. During OHC weekend, our doors are open wide: wander the building at your own pace, discover the spaces that make our center unique, and learn the story of the historic building we call home.
Dates
Sat & Sun
October 17–18, 2026
Hours
10:00 AM
to 5:00 PM both days
Admission
Free
Self-guided tours
About the Festival
One of the Largest Architecture Festivals in the World
Now in its 16th year, Open House Chicago is one of the largest architecture and urban exploration festivals in the world — a free, self-guided celebration of architecture, culture, and community that opens doors across dozens of Chicago neighborhoods each October. Visitors can explore sacred spaces, private clubs, theaters, loft studios, and hidden landmarks, with many sites offering talks and special programming throughout the weekend.
The IAHC is delighted to welcome OHC visitors back to our corner of Old Irving Park. No registration is required — simply drop in during open hours and explore.
🌟 A Highlighted Community Event at the IAHC
Community Mural Painting Day: Ireland and the Making of America
Sunday, October 18 · 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM · FREE
During Open House Chicago weekend, pick up a brush and become part of a lasting piece of art at the Irish American Heritage Center! Join us for a special Community Mural Painting Day celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States through the theme "Ireland and the Making of America."
Led by professional Chicago artist Ken Klopack, this guided, hands-on painting experience will bring the community together to create a large-scale mural honoring the Irish men and women whose stories, culture, labor, and contributions helped shape the United States. Participants will have the opportunity to paint a portion of the mural and quite literally leave their mark on a piece that will remain on display at the IAHC for years to come.
Participation is completely free, and no previous painting experience is necessary. Participants must be 12 years of age or older.
Time Slots
To make sure everyone has plenty of room to paint and an opportunity to meaningfully contribute, participation is divided into three one-hour time slots, with 20 advance registration spaces available per hour:
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
20 spaces
12:00 – 1:00 PM
20 spaces
1:00 – 2:00 PM
20 spaces
If spaces remain available on the day of the event, visitors will be welcome to sign up in person. However, advance registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your opportunity to participate, as each time slot is limited.
Once completed, the mural will become a lasting piece of community-created artwork at the Irish American Heritage Center, commemorating both America's 250th anniversary and the enduring connection between Ireland, Irish America, Chicago, and the story of the United States.
Open House Chicago selected this artistic activation for its "close alignment with the spirit of this art-focused initiative and Open House Chicago's mission to connect audiences with the cultural and civic life of our city" — as part of the America250 celebration recognizing Chicago's contributions to the nation.
What to See
Spaces to Explore in Our Building
Also That Weekend
Tea with Harriet Beecher Stowe ☕📚
On Saturday, October 17, the IAHC Library hosts "Tea with Harriet Beecher Stowe" — an afternoon of history and tea in the company of one of America's most celebrated authors.
Get Tea TicketsIntro to Block Printing Workshop 🎃☘️
Sunday, October 18 · 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Get creative during Open House Chicago weekend with a hands-on Block Printing Workshop led by local IAHC Chicago artist Caroline Padula! Perfect for beginners, this workshop will introduce participants to the art of linoleum block printing, from carving a design into a linoleum block to inking and creating your own finished prints. In celebration of the fall season, Caroline will bring inspiration for Halloween and Irish-themed designs, including some fun and funky Celtic jack-o'-lanterns! Participants are also welcome to bring their own design ideas and get creative.
IAHC Members
$20
Non-Members
$30
This workshop is open to ages 16+ only due to the use of sharp linoleum carving tools. Space is limited, so advance registration is strongly encouraged!
Students should bring: a linocutter set, 5x7 linoleum block, printmaking paper, and black block-printing ink. Barens, brayers, and inking plates will be available to share, although students are welcome to bring their own.
Spend your Open House Chicago Sunday exploring the IAHC, learning a new art form, and leaving with your own handmade prints! 🎨
Register for the WorkshopLiterary Writing Workshop with Robert Patrick Conlon ✒️
Saturday, October 17 · Time & Additional Details Coming Soon
Following his recent visit to the Irish American Heritage Center for a reading and signing of his book Celtic Knot, author Robert Patrick Conlon returns to the IAHC for a special Literary Writing Workshop during Open House Chicago weekend!
Building on the conversations and ideas explored during his Celtic Knot event, this workshop will offer participants an opportunity to go beyond the finished page and explore the creative process alongside Conlon. Whether you're an experienced writer, working on a project of your own, or simply interested in storytelling and literature, the workshop will provide a welcoming space to write, learn, exchange ideas, and develop your craft.
The workshop will take place on Saturday, October 17 as part of a full day of arts, literature, and creative programming at the IAHC.
This is a free event — RSVP only.
RSVP for the WorkshopWorkshop time and additional details will be announced soon!
OHC Photo Competition 2026
📸 Snap the IAHC for the Festival Photo Competition
The Open House Chicago photography competition returns for its third year, and this year's theme is celebrating Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a hobbyist with a camera phone, photos taken while exploring official OHC sites — including the IAHC — are eligible. The CAC's curatorial team will select six winners to be printed and exhibited in the Chicago Gallery at the Chicago Architecture Center, and winners receive complimentary annual CAC memberships.
Take Photos
October 17–18, 2026
Submit by Oct 30
11:59 PM CDT · Max 3 photos
Winners Announced
By November 30, 2026
Photos must feature an official OHC 2026 site as the primary subject, and each participant may submit up to three photographs. Visit the competition page for full rules, image requirements, and to submit your shots of the IAHC.
Competition Details & SubmissionVisit Us
Open House Chicago is completely free — no tickets needed. Just stop by the IAHC between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM on October 17 or 18 and explore the building at your own pace.
View the Event ListingQuick Info
Plan Your OHC Weekend
With 200+ free sites across Chicago, Open House Chicago is a full weekend of urban exploration. Browse the full festival lineup, itineraries, and interactive map on the Chicago Architecture Center's website.
Visit architecture.org/open-house-chicago 📸 OHC Photo Competition 2026 About the Irish American Heritage Center