Image 1 of 1
Jersey Shore Irish Arts Camp
Whether your family has deep Irish roots or you're simply curious about Ireland's rich traditions, the Jersey Shore Irish Arts Camp offers a joyful introduction to the music, songs, dances, and customs that have brought Irish communities together for generations.
Campers will explore Irish songs, percussion, tin whistle, social dancing, and sean-nós footwork through games, ensemble music-making, and creative activities in a fun, welcoming environment rooted in authentic Irish tradition. Along the way, they'll learn many of the tunes and dances still enjoyed at sessions, céilís, and festivals throughout Ireland and Irish communities around the world.
Join us for the full week, drop in for a day to give it a try, or participate in the music sessions only. We want every child to have the opportunity to experience the joy of Irish music and culture in the way that works best for your family.
Teens are welcome! Teen musicians may attend at no cost and can join the music sessions, play their own instrument, accompany the dancers, or participate in the full camp experience.
No experience is necessary—just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to join in!
Dates: July 13–17
Location: Wesley Hall, Mercer Ave, Spring Lake 07762 (Corner of 4th and Mercer)
Time: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Ages: 7–12 and Teens
Daily Schedule
9:00–10:00 – Irish Songs & Rhythm Games/Percussion
Learn beloved Irish songs such as The Wild Rover, The Rattlin' Bog, and Black Velvet Band, along with contemporary favorites from Ireland, including Killeagh. Through singing and rhythm games, campers will develop musical skills while experiencing the storytelling and traditions at the heart of Irish culture.
10:00–11:00 – Irish Social Dancing
Learn classic community dances including The Siege of Ennis, The Walls of Limerick, The Waves of Tory, and The Haymakers Jig. These dances are enjoyed by people of all ages at céilís and celebrations throughout Ireland and Irish communities worldwide.
11:00–12:00 – Tin Whistle & Common Session Tunes
Learn melodies frequently played at Irish sessions and gatherings while building listening skills, musicianship, and confidence playing with others. Students who already play another instrument are welcome to bring it along and join in, or they may choose to learn the tin whistle.
Led by Shannon Dunne
Shannon is an internationally recognized sean-nós dancer, musician, educator, and tradition bearer with over 25 years of experience in Irish traditional arts. A Mid-Atlantic Champion and All-Ireland Fleadh qualifier, she has coached multiple All-Ireland placing dancers and performed at venues including the Kennedy Center and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Shannon holds a BA from the University of Notre Dame and will begin a Master’s degree in Ethnochoreology at the University of Limerick in fall 2026. Her teaching combines deep traditional knowledge, fieldwork in Ireland, and a joyful, highly musical approach that encourages creativity, confidence, and individual expression.
This camp is sponsored in part by the Irish American Society of the Jersey Shore
Terms and Conditions can be found HERE.
Whether your family has deep Irish roots or you're simply curious about Ireland's rich traditions, the Jersey Shore Irish Arts Camp offers a joyful introduction to the music, songs, dances, and customs that have brought Irish communities together for generations.
Campers will explore Irish songs, percussion, tin whistle, social dancing, and sean-nós footwork through games, ensemble music-making, and creative activities in a fun, welcoming environment rooted in authentic Irish tradition. Along the way, they'll learn many of the tunes and dances still enjoyed at sessions, céilís, and festivals throughout Ireland and Irish communities around the world.
Join us for the full week, drop in for a day to give it a try, or participate in the music sessions only. We want every child to have the opportunity to experience the joy of Irish music and culture in the way that works best for your family.
Teens are welcome! Teen musicians may attend at no cost and can join the music sessions, play their own instrument, accompany the dancers, or participate in the full camp experience.
No experience is necessary—just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to join in!
Dates: July 13–17
Location: Wesley Hall, Mercer Ave, Spring Lake 07762 (Corner of 4th and Mercer)
Time: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Ages: 7–12 and Teens
Daily Schedule
9:00–10:00 – Irish Songs & Rhythm Games/Percussion
Learn beloved Irish songs such as The Wild Rover, The Rattlin' Bog, and Black Velvet Band, along with contemporary favorites from Ireland, including Killeagh. Through singing and rhythm games, campers will develop musical skills while experiencing the storytelling and traditions at the heart of Irish culture.
10:00–11:00 – Irish Social Dancing
Learn classic community dances including The Siege of Ennis, The Walls of Limerick, The Waves of Tory, and The Haymakers Jig. These dances are enjoyed by people of all ages at céilís and celebrations throughout Ireland and Irish communities worldwide.
11:00–12:00 – Tin Whistle & Common Session Tunes
Learn melodies frequently played at Irish sessions and gatherings while building listening skills, musicianship, and confidence playing with others. Students who already play another instrument are welcome to bring it along and join in, or they may choose to learn the tin whistle.
Led by Shannon Dunne
Shannon is an internationally recognized sean-nós dancer, musician, educator, and tradition bearer with over 25 years of experience in Irish traditional arts. A Mid-Atlantic Champion and All-Ireland Fleadh qualifier, she has coached multiple All-Ireland placing dancers and performed at venues including the Kennedy Center and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Shannon holds a BA from the University of Notre Dame and will begin a Master’s degree in Ethnochoreology at the University of Limerick in fall 2026. Her teaching combines deep traditional knowledge, fieldwork in Ireland, and a joyful, highly musical approach that encourages creativity, confidence, and individual expression.
This camp is sponsored in part by the Irish American Society of the Jersey Shore
Terms and Conditions can be found HERE.