The Irish Club of Rome is holding the 23rd edition of the Celtic Ball — Rome's biggest party for the Irish and friends of Ireland — on Saturday 15 March at the five-star Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi near Villa Borghese.

The annual black-tie event in honour of St Patrick takes place at the earlier-than-normal hour of 18.00, to accommodate rugby fans keen not to miss the final game of this year's Six Nations tournament when France faces Ireland in Paris.

Following the match, the evening begins with a prosecco reception at 19.30, followed by a five-course meal accompanied by traditional Irish musicians. The €85 ticket price includes dinner, drinks and a performance by The Swing Pistols that is guaranteed to keep revellers dancing late into the night.

For more information and to reserve tickets email irishclubofrome@gmail.com, see the event's Facebook page, or tel. 3335729081. Alternatively tickets can be purchased via the club's website with Paypal. No account needed, accepts major credit/debit cards.