Heritage Week begins today, with a cultural feast of more than a thousand events due to take place all over the country over the next seven days.
Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley officially published the seven-day programme at Farmleigh House, Phoenix Park, Dublin today.
The estate was opened to the public from 2pm for wildlife walks, tours, historical children's games, music, natural heritage activities and a food fair.
Now in its 15th year, Heritage Week features activities as varied as bat walks at dusk, historical re-enactments and summer camps to lectures and storytelling.
Tomorrow marks designated Walled Towns Heritage Day, with events taking place in 22 walled towns around the country.
Water Heritage Day will be celebrated next Saturday, when a number of events will showcase the recreational aspects of the country's canals and inland waterways.
Stately homes offering free or reduced admission will be open to the public, while the doors on many of the great Georgian houses around Merrion Square in Dublin will also be opened for a special open day on September 1st.
For the first time this year every county is participating in Heritage Week.
"The diversity and range of activities taking place during the coming week speaks volumes about our national interest and pride in our culture," said Mr Gormley.
"The growing number of people, especially at local level, involved in organising events and encouraging others to become involved demonstrates the keen interest the public has in our towns and villages, our wildlife and landscapes and our changing sense of identity.
"It is inspiring to see that so many are willing to give generously of their time to their communities and neighbourhoods. The quality of life for our children is dependent on the stewardship we provide today. It is not what we accumulate and acquire but what we conserve and share that will determine the quality of life for our children," he added.
Further information is available online at www.heritageweek.ie
Additional reporting: PA