"We are very excited about the fair this year. It will be a great day for families to come to the Centre, have lunch, take a picture with Santa, and maybe participate in a raffle or two. We will have many unique items that will make perfect holiday gifts," said Janet Tivnan, event Chairperson
** History of the Hibernian Cultural Centre**
The Hibernian Cultural Centre has quickly become the premiere cultural venue for the Worcester area Irish community since its opening in 2005. The building was refurbished by the HCC and filled a void created in 2002 when the Commonwealth of Massachusetts took the former "Irish Club", located on Millbury Street by eminent domain for the construction of the Route 146 Extension. The thriving Worcester Irish community was left without a home for many of cultural events through which it had ensured perpetuation of the Irish cultural to younger generations. For the interim years, the Irish community hosted its events at many local establishments that donated space. However, it was evident that the many once thriving Irish groups could not maintain their activities without a permanent home. The former Polish American Veterans hall, located at 19 Temple Street, Worcester was acquired and dramatically renovated.