The Emerald Isle is calling!

In just a few short weeks, Notre Dame football returns to the island of Ireland to face the Midshipmen of Navy in the Aer Lingus Classic at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. The weekend promises to be filled with incredible scenery and unforgettable memories — from Mass in the historic Dublin Castle and festivities on “Notre Dame Street,” to a local service project and ND-Navy rugby match.

Take a look below at several pregame events planned for you to celebrate, give back, and cheer the Irish on to victory in the season opener!

Tours of Notre Dame-Newman Centre

Friday, Aug. 25

9 a.m. – noon IST & 2 – 4 p.m. IST

Sunday, Aug. 27

2 – 4 p.m. IST

Newman University Church

87 St Stephen's Green, Saint Kevin's, Dublin, D02

K230, Ireland

Notre Dame-Newman Centre for Faith and Reason staff will offer tours of the historic Newman University Church, highlighting its connection to St. John Henry Newman and sharing the University of Notre Dame's involvement in the church since 2017.

Alumni Association Service Project

Friday, Aug. 25

9 a.m. – noon IST

Mater Misericordiae University Hospital

Eccles St, Dublin 7, D07 R2WY, Ireland

All are invited to serve the greater Dublin community and those in need at Mater Misericordiae University Hospital and two nearby agencies serving unaccompanied minors and the elderly. There will be opportunities to assemble care packages for patients and students and assist in rehabilitation and beautification work.

Register Now to Serve

Notre Dame Rugby vs. Navy

Friday, Aug. 25

4 p.m. IST

College Park

Trinity College Dublin

The Notre Dame rugby club will kick off the 2023 Fall 15s season against the reigning national champion Midshipmen, who completed an 18-0 undefeated season in 2022.

Le Chéile (Leh kay-lah)

Friday, Aug. 25

8 p.m. IST

3Arena

N Wall Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1, Ireland

To commemorate Notre Dame’s long-awaited return to Ireland, University President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., '76, '78 M.A., alongside other members of the University leadership team, will host more than 9,000 members of the Notre Dame family for a dynamic evening showcasing some of Ireland and America’s finest musical and dance talent. Hosted by Mike Golic '85, participating artists include Riverdance, Imelda May, Sharon Shannon, Lyra, Tolu Makay, The High Kings, Martin Short, and of course, members of The Band of the Fighting Irish. Please join us for this dynamic and collaborative showcase as the Notre Dame football team prepares for its tilt against Navy the following day.

Reserve Tickets Now

Mass at Dublin Castle

Saturday, Aug. 26

11 a.m. IST

Dublin Castle

Dame St, Dublin 2, Ireland

A large, open-air Mass will be offered at the historic Dublin Castle. Mass will take place in the upper courtyard of the complex, and all are welcome to attend.

“Notre Dame Street”

Saturday, Aug. 26

Noon – 5 p.m. IST

Dame Street, Dublin

After Mass at Dublin Castle, follow The Band of the Fighting Irish to Dame Street, which will officially be renamed “Notre Dame Street” in the lead-up to the game. Enjoy the band while taking in all the local sites and attractions around Notre Dame Street and the Temple Bar area before heading to Aviva Stadium. Notre Dame Street will be free and open to all guests and streets will be closed to vehicular traffic.

2023 Aer Lingus College Football Classic

Notre Dame vs. Navy

Saturday, Aug. 26

7:30 p.m. IST

Aviva Stadium

It’s time for kick-off! The Fighting Irish renew their rivalry with the Midshipmen in the 96th meeting between the two schools. The game marks the third time Notre Dame will play a college football game in Ireland, with both previous visits also featuring matchups with Navy.

To experience Notre Dame in Ireland, including the latest event information, the stories of the University's roots in the Emerald Isle, and where to get exclusive game merchandise, visit Experience Notre Dame.

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