We can trace our humble beginnings back to 1980 when some enterprising locals decided to march in the Cedar Rapids’ Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. The group formally organized in 1982, electing officers, holding meetings and laying the foundation for what would become the County Johnson Irish.

In 1985 the group organized the County Johnson Irish Golf Tournament. The tournament was so successful that we have been hosting it every year since. Another much anticipated event is our annual Irish Night. Irish music, dancing and good times are served up in healthy doses all night long. This is also a time for new members to sign up and become a part of the County Johnson Irish.

Besides social events we are actively involved in community events. We make donations of our time and money to local charities and families. For years we sponsored Project Children allowing Irish children to experience living in the United States for a few weeks. Members have also made donations to the Iowa City Public Library’s Books for Children Program. We have also volunteered to help with the Run for the Schools - a road race that raises money for all of Iowa City’s high schools.

The County Johnson Irish has well over one hundred members and continues to grow. We always welcome people to join us and become a part of celebrating Irish heritage or even just to meet new friends. We in the County Johnson Irish are proud of our Irish heritage and will continue to foster interest and excitement in all that our culture has to offer.