Irish Language Immersion Course 2026

Butte, Montana

July 18-25, 2026

FÁILTE | WELCOME

Experience authentic Irish language and culture in Butte, Montana – often called "the most Irish city in the USA." Our immersive courses blend captivating history, vibrant language learning, and exciting cultural experiences, including traditional sports, music, and song.

STAIR | HISTORY

The first Irish language and cultural immersion camps were established in 1901 in the Gaeltachtaí (Irish-speaking regions) of Ireland. They quickly became a cornerstone of the national movement to preserve and revitalize Ireland’s ancient Gaelic heritage. In these communities, students experienced a living culture, learning the language, music, dance, and traditions directly from native speakers. They returned home inspired, sharing their knowledge and strengthening Irish identity within their own communities. The role these camps played in safeguarding Irish culture from decline cannot be overstated. This summer, the course offered in Butte seeks to provide that same transformative experience. By immersing students in Irish language and culture, the program aims to cultivate not only learners, but ambassadors, individuals who will help preserve, promote, and celebrate their ancestral heritage here in the United States.

CÚRSAÍ | COURSES

This year, three courses (levels) are being offered:

  • Beginning Irish I

  • Intermediate Irish I

  • Advanced Irish I

CURACLAM | CURRICULUM

Ready to boost your Irish conversational skills? That's the core mission of all three courses! We'll start with a relaxed meet-and-greet on Saturday at 4:30PM, then head out for some pizza at a local brewery. Language Classes begin bright and early on Sunday, July 19th, at 9:00AM and continue daily until July 25th, wrapping up at 4:30PM. Each hour-long class is followed by a 30-minute break, perfect for practicing what you've learned or working with your classmates. You'll get a comprehensive 45 hours of instruction packed into just 7 days.

Evenings are free for students to study or participate in recreational activities with their peers. There is plenty to explore in Butte, and many enjoy taking evening walks, discovering the historic old town, and visiting the various sites that commemorate the history of the Irish in the area. Rest assured, you won’t be bored!

TEAGASCÓIRÍ | INSTRUCTORS

All instructors are fluent speakers and trained teachers from Ireland who have experience teaching American students. They are familiar with the challenges students in the United States face and are well-equipped to help them overcome these obstacles.

CREIDIÚINTÍ | CREDITS

There is one Montana Office of Public Instruction renewal credit for each hour of instruction. A student who completes one day of instruction earns 6 credits, while a student who completes the full course receives 45 credits.

Students may choose to earn credits from the University of Montana. Three credits are available for an additional fee of $155.

LÓISTÍN | ACCOMMODATION

For those traveling from out of state, accommodations are available at Montana Technical College. To view the facilities, please visit www.mtech.edu. The cost for staying on campus is $40 per night or $280 for a full week (7 nights).

If you prefer a more comfortable experience rather than the dormitory setup, consider the Hodgens Ryan Mansion. It is located just off campus, offers a cozy environment, is reasonably priced, and tends to book up quickly, so early reservation is recommended.

COSTAIS & CLÁRÚCHÁN | COSTS & REGISTRATION

The tuition cost for each course is $70 per day or $399 for the full course. Members of the Friends of Irish Studies receive a $20 discount for the full course, bringing the total to $379.

Register and complete your payment online by clicking here, or download a printable form here and send it to us via mail.

Due to limited space, we encourage you to make your plans and reservations as soon as possible.