But it’s certainly a prime moment to celebrate Gaeilge, the language at the heart of Ireland’s identity.

This ancient Irish language is making a lively resurgence in 2026, supported by music, television, education, and public services.

And the sheer volume of younger people signing up to learn Irish is proof the Emerald Isle’s rich culture currently has a cool factor.

A Cultural Comeback

The scrum down to learn Irish is highest among Millennials and Gen Z, accordingly to Éanna Ó Caollaí’s latest Irish Times article Adults aged under 35 and women most enthusiastic about learning Irish language, survey finds.

He reports: “… greater interest in the language among younger demographic with 74% in the 25-34 age group stating a desire to learn or improve their Irish, and 71% in the 18-24 age group”.

As for the reason, he states: “Respondents under the age of 25 (93%) showed the strongest agreement that musical artists and other people in the public eye using Irish have a positive impact on how people view the language”.

The data clearly reflects Ireland’s cultural influences on the younger generations, driven including:

• Direct influence of artists such as Irish language rap group Kneecap igniting interest in Gaeilge

• Indirect influence of TV hits like Kin, Trespasses, Say Nothing, House of Guinness, Derry Girls and The Walsh Sisters instilling national identity and pride

For these reasons, Gaeilge is no longer perceived as traditional, but trendy.

Why Learn Irish Now?

 Have Irish roots? Love the culture? Learning a few phrases is an inspired way to: 

• Connect with Ireland’s rich heritage
• Discover a unique and expressive language
• Share your newfound Irish charm with friends near and far

Get in touch with us, at la Academia, to learn Irish and start finding your own pots of gold and rainbows’ ends in your everyday life.