National Heritage Week will run from 18th – 26th August with a full schedule of events throughout the country. Many of the events that take place during the week are free and the programme highlights the abundance of great work that is carried out in all communities in Ireland to preserve and promote our natural, built and cultural heritage.
Whether it is nature and wildlife, folklore, or built heritage, National Heritage Week aims to deliver messages and events that are positive, engaging and relevant in people’s day to day lives. Any person or organisation can actively take part in the Week and organise an event which educates people and promotes an aspect of Irelands Heritage.
Events hosted nationwide are hugely diverse in subject and many are organised by local communities lending great authenticity and variety to the events. Examples of events include medieval fairs, night-time bat walks, wildlife walks and lectures, classical music and poetry recitals, traditional music sessions, storytelling, historical re-enactments, and local history walks. In addition many heritage sites and stately homes will offer free admission or special concessions.
National Heritage Week is a unique opportunity for families and everyone to get involved in Ireland’s heritage, learn more about it, preserve it for future generations and enjoy it.
For more information visit their website.
Photo: Heritage Week 2011 Photography Competition Submission Courtesy of: Jackie
The Heritage Council coordinates National Heritage Week with support from the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government & Failte Ireland.