Taoiseach Accepts President Trump's Invite to White House on St. Patrick's Day

The Taoiseach will visit Washington to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America's Declaration of Independence.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Taoiseach Micheál Martin has accepted an invitation from President Donald Trump to visit the White House on St. Patrick's Day. The Taoiseach received the formal invite on February 6 and confirmed he will travel to Washington during the St. Patrick's week celebrations, which will also mark the 250th anniversary of America's Declaration of Independence.

Why it matters

The annual St. Patrick's Day visit to the White House is a longstanding tradition that highlights the close relationship between Ireland and the United States. This year's visit holds additional significance as it coincides with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

The details

The Taoiseach received the invitation from President Trump on February 6 and accepted, noting it would be an opportunity to 'celebrate the warm and historic friendship between the US and Ireland.' The Taoiseach will travel to both Philadelphia and Washington during the St. Patrick's week celebrations, where he is expected to present the President with a bowl of live shamrock, continuing a decades-old tradition.

  • The Taoiseach received the invitation from President Trump on February 6, 2026.
  • The Taoiseach will visit the White House on St. Patrick's Day 2026.

The players

Micheál Martin

The Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States.

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What they’re saying

“Today, I have received a formal invitation from President Donald Trump to visit the White House on St Patrick's Day. In his letter he expresses that this visit would be an opportunity to celebrate the warm and historic friendship between the US and Ireland.”

— Micheál Martin, Taoiseach (irishamerica.com)

“The President also pays tribute to the Irish American community, who have made such an enormous contribution to the United States.”

— Micheál Martin, Taoiseach (irishamerica.com)

What’s next

The Taoiseach will travel to both Philadelphia and Washington during the St. Patrick's week celebrations, where he is expected to carry out the decades-old tradition of presenting the President with a bowl of live shamrock.

The takeaway

The Taoiseach's visit to the White House on St. Patrick's Day highlights the enduring friendship and close ties between Ireland and the United States, which will be further celebrated during the 250th anniversary of America's founding.