Santa Cruz Traditional Irish Seisiun @ The Poet & The Patriot Irish Pub

More than just one of many bars downtown, “The Poet” is known as “The Heart of Santa Cruz” and has built a reputation as the local pub for a true cross-section of the Santa Cruz community. Regulars of the Poet represent the artists, writers, professors, students, contractors, workers, union members and eccentrics who together create the politics and style of life familiar to our unique community.

Named after the teacher and poet, Pádraig Pearse, and James Connolly, the founder of the Irish Labour Party, the Poet and the Patriot draws its inspiration from the spirit of activism of the Easter Rising of 1916 for which both Connolly and Pearse were executed, paving the way to eventual Irish statehood. Though Connolly and Pearse had their differences, they were united in giving their lives for independence from foreign rule and for an end to the exploitation of the Irish people.

In the early 1980s, Chris Matthews, Santa Cruz poet, politician, writer, activist and actor, founded the Poet & Patriot Irish Pub along with his wife, Sue Heinz, his brother, Dihlon McManne, and his longtime pals Ed Alheit and Tim McCormick. Dierdrie and Larry are our gracious hosts at the bar. Remember to tip generously!

Representing the spirit of Connolly and Pearse in a time and place far removed from that of the Easter Rising, the Poet and the Patriot is a meeting place for anyone interested in a good conversation over a few cold pints. To really know what’s best about Santa Cruz, a visit to the Poet is in order!