Building Bridges, One Friendship at a Time

Since 1990, the Spokane-Limerick Sister City Society has connected two cities—and many lives—across the Atlantic.

What began as a formal agreement between the mayors of Spokane and Limerick has grown into a rich and lively partnership grounded in culture, education, travel, and community. Our Society works to foster global friendship through:

Hosting and sending official delegations
Supporting cultural exchanges in the arts, education, and business
Organizing community events celebrating Irish culture
Welcoming visiting guests from Limerick with true Spokane hospitality

Whether you have deep Irish roots or simply a love for Irish culture, we invite you to join us in celebrating this meaningful connection.

Society President Kerry Lynch at the St. Paddy's Day Parade

Spokane-Limerick Sister City Society History

1979

Spokane’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade was organized by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. It quickly became the largest of its kind in the western U.S., igniting a vision for a deeper Irish connection.

1988

Maureen Hurl Peterson and Judge Jim Murphy approached Mayor Vickie McNeill about forming a Sister City partnership with an Irish city. With help from Professor Jim McAuley of EWU, Limerick emerged as the ideal choice due to shared cultural and civic traits.

1989

Mayor McNeill and Maureen Peterson led a 28-person Spokane delegation to Limerick in September. A warm reception and instant connection with Limerick’s leaders sparked plans for an official partnership.

1990

In March, a delegation from Limerick visited Spokane. On March 5, Mayors Gus O’Driscoll and Shari Barnard formally signed the Sister City agreement at City Hall, followed by a joyful dinner and celebration.

1995

A large Limerick group visited Spokane, touring local landmarks including Gonzaga and Grand Coulee Dam. The visit featured warm hospitality, barbecues, and strengthened civic and business ties.

2000

By its 10th anniversary, the Sister City Society had hosted hundreds of travelers, dozens of performances, and countless exchanges. The bond between Spokane and Limerick had far surpassed its founders’ dreams.

1991

Limerick leaders returned for the Bloomsday Run—some even raced. That fall, Spokane citizens visited Limerick for the Treaty 300 commemoration and witnessed the dedication of “Spokane Walk” along the River Shannon.

1996-1997

Educational exchanges began between Spokane and Limerick universities and city departments. Irish artists like Shay Duffin and Batt Burns performed in Spokane, while a Spokane delegation joined Limerick’s 800th anniversary celebration.

1993-1994

Limerick delegations toured Spokane and were welcomed with cultural events and Idaho day trips. In 1994, Spokane actors performed Quilters in Limerick during a memorable civic exchange.

1998-1999

Limerick leaders returned to Spokane for the Lilac Parade and local tours. Meanwhile, multiple Spokane groups visited Ireland, including receptions in Limerick and storytelling-led cultural excursions.

Our Board

Limerick, Ireland

Ireland’s Historic & Dynamic Riverside City

Limerick, Ireland's third-largest city with a population of approximately 102,287 as of the 2022 census , is situated along the banks of the River Shannon in the province of Munster. Founded by Scandinavian settlers in 812, the city received its charter in 1197, making it one of the oldest chartered cities in Ireland .

Today, Limerick seamlessly blends its rich medieval heritage with modern urban development. The city is a hub for education, culture, and innovation, boasting institutions like the University of Limerick and Mary Immaculate College. Its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes make it a captivating destination for visitors and residents alike.