An irrigation nozzle is provided with a grit diversion feature to divert grit away from the interior of the nozzle. The nozzle includes a pattern template that defines the irrigation pattern produced by the nozzle. The pattern template includes one or more flow channels that may be susceptible to clogging with grit. The grit diversion feature includes one or more grit vents to redirect grit away from the interior of the nozzle and may further include an inner wall about the central hub that helps protect the central hub from intrusion by grit.