This August marks a double celebration for heritage lovers across Ireland. Not only is it the 30th anniversary of the establishment of The Heritage Council, but 2025 also marks 20 years since the council took over responsibility for National Heritage Week – a milestone year for a much-loved national celebration.
Since its inception, Heritage Week has become one of Ireland’s most anticipated cultural events, connecting people of all ages with the stories, places and traditions that define us. This year’s theme, Exploring Our Foundations, invites communities across every county to reflect on what lies at the heart of our heritage – the buildings, landscapes, customs and knowledge passed down through generations.
With thousands of free events scheduled nationwide, 2025’s festival promises more than just reflection – it offers a rich and varied programme of discovery, learning and fun. From ancient skills to modern storytelling, and from biodiversity walks to historical re-enactments, there’s truly something for everyone.
As we mark these important milestones, Virginia Teehan, chief executive of The Heritage Council, reflects on what Heritage Week means to communities across Ireland:
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“Each August, National Heritage Week offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the richness of Ireland’s built, cultural and natural heritage. It is a time when communities across the country come together to share stories, traditions, knowledge and skills that connect us to our past and inspire our future.
“With over 2,000 events taking place nationwide, this year’s festival promises something for everyone – from hands-on workshops and guided walks to family-friendly days out and expert talks. Whether you’re interested in ancient crafts, biodiversity, local history or folklore, Heritage Week is a chance to explore something new, often right on your doorstep.
“In this special supplement, you’ll find a curated selection of highlights to help you make the most of the festival – from hidden gems and quirky events to must-sees in your local area. We hope it inspires you to get out, get involved, and discover the heritage stories that shape who we are.”
Family Fun
1. St Patrick’s Cathedral Treasure Hunt Tour
Venue: St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin
Dates and times: August 21st, 11am, 12pm, 3pm
Cost: Free
Budding sleuths will delight in solving a centuries-old mystery. St Patrick’s Cathedral invites families to participate in an interactive treasure hunt suitable for children aged seven to 12. Former dean Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, filled a notebook with ideas and doodles, but it has since gone missing. Little detectives must follow the clues hidden throughout the magnificent building and recover the journal before it falls into the wrong hands. Booking required.
2. Aonach na nDéise – Woodstown Viking Festival
Venue: Woodstown Viking Site along the Waterford Greenway, Co Waterford
Dates and times: August 16th, 1pm-5pm; August 17th, 10am-5pm
Cost: Free
This is a special year for Waterford, as 2025 marks 1111 years since the Vikings founded the city. A highlight of National Heritage Week is the Woodstown Viking Festival, also known as Aonach na nDéise. Over two days, the dramatic event will bring people together from Ireland, Scandinavia and Britain to recreate a Viking village. Demonstrations of battles and combat techniques from the period will wow visitors. Additionally, there will be archaeology activities and Viking games to enjoy.
3. Lughnafest – The Festival of Moling
Venue: St Mullins, Carlow
Dates and times: August 18th, 20th, 23rd, 24th, times vary
Cost: Free
The Festival of Moling, or LughnaFest, is a celebration of the heritage, folklore and sacred landscape of the Carlow village of St Mullins. Inspired by seventh-century St Moling, this community-led event will include guided walking tours. For Wild Child Day – a popular part of National Heritage Week, which encourages children to look at the world differently – there will be storytelling, crafts and a forest scavenger hunt. The week concludes with a ceremonial blessing of the Barrow, the country’s second-longest river.
4. Bandon Walled Town Festival
Venue: Bandon, Co Cork
Dates and times: August 16th-24th
Cost: Free
The 14th annual Bandon Walled Town Festival, one of many such festivals taking place all over Ireland, once again explores the town’s rich history, unique heritage buildings and the remains of its towering, fortified walls. The week’s programme offers something for everyone, from guided walks to historical talks, culminating in a Family Fun Day on Sunday August 24th. The fun day starts with a parade at noon, followed by a fun-filled afternoon of medieval re-enactments; there will be longbow and ancient craft demonstrations, from coppersmithing to pole lathe turning, and puppet and circus shows. A performance by Newcestown Comhaltas rounds off the afternoon.
5. Walk, Talk and Boat Trip
Venue: Portrun Harbour, Portrun, Co Roscommon
Dates and times: August 19th, 11am-2pm, 12.30pm-4pm
Cost: €10 per person or €30 for 2 adults plus two children under 12
Visitors to Roscommon will be treated to a dynamic experience that combines walking, talking and a boat trip. On terra firma, the tour will pass the holy well and church associated with St Diarmuid, whose disciples included St Ciaran, founder of the monastery at Clonmacnoise. On the waters of Lough Ree, the boat is set to loop around Inchcleraun, an island that claims additional links to the sixth-century saint. Booking required.
6. Grave Rubbing Art
Venue: St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, Kilkenny
Dates and times: August 22nd, 2pm-4pm
Cost: Free
Ireland’s second-largest cathedral will host a unique, family-friendly activity that focuses on old headstones, often overlooked sources of historical treasure. Participants will create rubbings from gravestones and other surfaces around the grounds of St Canice’s and then decode the symbols or decipher the text. The round tower and cathedral, dating to the ninth and 13th centuries respectively, are sure to hold many secrets.
Learn and Do
7. Mumming and Music at Sigginstown Castle
Venue: Sigginstown Castle Coach House, Tacumshane, Co Wexford
Dates and times: August 23rd, 8pm-11pm
Cost: Free
In the castle’s Coach House Café, the Sigginstown Mummers will present a short (10-minute) historical play. For those keen to get involved, contact the group, as they’d be delighted to welcome performers of all levels who are available for a rehearsal on August 23rd or a day beforehand. An open music session will follow the mumming – everyone is encouraged to bring their instruments, voices and hands to clap.
8. Make Your Own Decorative Tile Workshop
Venue: Old Mellifont Abbey, Tullyallen, Co Louth
Dates and times: August 17th, 24th, 11am-4pm
Cost: Free
Mellifont Abbey, Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery, is one of Louth’s crown jewels. During National Heritage Week, visitors to the site will receive the opportunity to paint a copy of one of the beautiful Medieval floor tiles found there. If that weren’t enough, participants can bring the tile home. Booking required.
9. The Big Dig with the School of Irish Archaeology
Venue: Outside Navan Library, Navan, Co Meath
Dates and times: August 18th, 4pm-4.45pm
Cost: Free
Given Ireland’s rich history, it’s unsurprising that numerous artefacts remain hidden throughout the country. Youngsters hoping to uncover some of these treasures one day should join the School of Irish Archaeology for the Big Dig workshop in Navan, where they’ll be introduced to the process of excavating the remains of a Viking house. During their dig, they’ll also learn about the lifestyles of their ancestors. Suitable for children aged five to 12 years.
10. Balloonamania Belles and the Brontës
Venue: Offaly Heritage Centre, Co Offaly
Dates and times: August 18th, 11am – 2pm
Cost: Free
Among the activities in the delightfully named event, Balloonamania Belles and the Brontës, is Sharon Wright’s illustrated talk on the history of early female balloonists and parachutists – a subject matter relevant to Tullamore, the location of the great balloon fire in 1785. Also scheduled is a documentary on the marriage settlement of author Charlotte Brontë and Banagher resident Arthur Bell Nicholls, as well as a music recital by the Banagher Brontë Ensemble.
11. Gaelic and Viking Shield Making Workshop
Venue: Ferns Castle Visitor Centre, Co Wexford
Dates and times: August 19th, 23rd, 11am-1pm
Cost: Free
An exciting workshop for children to get hands on with history and unleash their inner warriors as they craft their own shield and design a custom sword, inspired by Gaelic and Viking designs. This fun-filled workshop blends craft, culture, and creativity in the heart of historic Ferns Castle. It’s suitable for children aged six to 12, giving them a chance to explore history, get creative and bring home unique masterpieces. Places are limited, so booking is required. Call 053-9366411 or email fernscastle@opw.ie.
12. Scéal Heritage Prehistoric Pottery Workshop
Venue: Durrow Library, Durrow, Co Laois
Dates and times: August 20th, 3pm-4.15pm
Cost: Free
Durrow, located in the south of Laois, is teeming with history. Archaeological work carried out by the Office of Public Works indicates that the area has been visited, if not inhabited, since the Bronze Age. In the local library, archaeologist Donna Gilligan will lead a duo of enlightening and creative activities called Scéal Heritage Prehistoric Pottery Workshop. The first option is just for children, while the second is for the entire family. Booking required.
Natural Heritage and Biodiversity
13. Wild Ways: Old Skills for a New Generation
Venue: Cavan Adventure Centre, Inishmore, Co Cavan
Dates and times: August 19th, 10am-3pm
Cost: Free
As the world progresses, we risk losing the skills that have served past generations so well. Cavan Adventure Centre invites children to step back in time and explore how our ancestors lived with the land. The young participants will learn how to build natural shelters, use the sun to track direction and time, and discover how to build fire safely. After lunch, they’ll enjoy some prehistoric fun with archery, an echo of how our cave-dwelling ancestors hunted. Booking required.
14. Plant Detectives: Family Trail
Venue: Future Forests, Kealkill, Co Cork
Dates and times: August 16th, 11am-3.30pm
Cost: Free
Explore the significance of plants and leaves through a family adventure in Future Forests, Kealkill. Hand lenses and microscopes will be available to observe details that are usually invisible to the naked eye. Suitable for all ages. Other activities – all part of the Ellen Hutchins Festival – will include a demonstration of willow basket weaving by Yvon O’Flynn.
15. Introducing Children to the Wonders of the Bog
Venue: Clogher Heritage Complex, Newtown, Co Mayo
Dates and times: August 23rd, 2pm-5pm
Cost: Free
This event will introduce children to the wonders of the bog, along with its incredible flora and fauna. Kids will explore the landscapes, wildlife and habitats of the area, and afterwards, they’ll have the opportunity to express their creativity by composing a painting or drawing at the Heritage Complex. An adult must accompany all children.
16. Wild Child Day: Nature Crafting and Storytelling at Ardan Wood
Venue: Ardan Wood, Co Westmeath
Dates and times: August 23rd, 6.30pm-9.30pm
Cost: Free, donations welcome
To celebrate Wild Child Day and National Heritage Week, a special, family-friendly event is planned for Ardan Wood on Saturday, August 23rd. The evening will feature a nature-crafting workshop, followed by an enchanting session of folklore and storytelling around a campfire – all of which will unfold beneath the ancient woodland canopy. It’s set to be a fun and meaningful way to inspire the next generation of guardians and help them connect with the natural world.
17. Nature-based Storytelling Workshop
Venue: Brigit’s Garden, Pollagh, Co Galway
Dates and times: August 24th, 2pm-3.30pm
Cost: Free
Join storyteller and forest school leader Carol Barrett in the wood at Brigit’s Garden for an interactive storytelling workshop, guaranteed to bring Irish nature-based myths and legends alive for children. Expect costumes, masks and other creative materials. The workshop will be held under a large outdoor shelter, which provides a dry, weatherproof space among the native trees. Suitable for children aged four and above, but younger ones are also welcome.
18. Compost Making in Irish – Conas Múirín a Dhéanamh
Venue: Síolta Chroí
Dates and times: August 17th, 10am-1pm
Cost: €30
Learn to nourish the earth and discover the art of composting while reconnecting with the language of the land – Gaeilge! During this hands-on, bilingual workshop, participants will learn how to turn food and garden waste into rich, nourishing compost. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to deepen your understanding of sustainable living, this course is a perfect blend of practical skills and cultural revival. Booking required.
Heritage Open Doors
19. Wogan Browne Mausoleum – Uncover 18th-Century Power and Piety
Venue: The People’s Church, Clongowes, Co Kildare
Dates and times: August 2nd, 7.30pm-8.30pm
Cost: Free
Beyond the graveyard walls of Kildare’s Mainham Church is a curious structure with a curious back story. Dating to 1743, this so-called mausoleum resulted from a bitter dispute between Catholic landowner Stephen Fitzwilliam Browne and the local Anglican minister. But the building is more than a reactionary tomb. In this talk at Clongowes Wood College, the deeper motives behind Browne’s “monument of obligation” will be debated, revealing how this small building became a bold public statement about identity, power and belonging in Penal-era Ireland. Pre-visit the mausoleum on August 16th from 2pm to 5pm.
20. Open Day at Raphoe Recreational Hall
Venue: Raphoe Recreational Hall, Raphoe, Co Donegal
Dates and times: August 16th, 12pm-3pm
Cost: Free
On August 16th, Raphoe Recreational Hall, home to the Raphoe Badminton Club and formerly the Second Presbyterian Church, will host an open day. The impressive structure was built in 1860 to designs by the architect John Guy Ferguson. During this special event, history and architecture enthusiasts will gain exciting insights into the building and its associated badminton club.
21. Guided Tours of Rokeby Hall
Venue: Rokeby Hall, Grangebellew, Co Louth
Dates and times: August 16th-24th, 10am-2pm
Cost: €10 for adults, €5 for children and students
The 18th-century Rokeby Hall cuts a fine figure amid the Louth countryside near Grangebellew. Built by renowned Irish architect Francis Johnston for Richard Robinson, Archbishop of Armagh, the property retains its original character and many of its features today. Rokeby is a masterclass in Georgian craftsmanship and is now a member of Historic Houses of Ireland. Guided tours of Rokeby Hall and the Victorian Turner Conservatory will be conducted daily during National Heritage Week. Booking required.
22. Marlay House Guided Tour
Venue: Marlay House, Rathfarnham, Co Dublin
Dates and times: August 16th, 19th, 23rd, 11am-3pm
Cost: Free
During the guided tours of this country house, you’ll discover how the original 17th-century property, known as The Grange, was purchased in 1764 by David La Touche, who extended and renamed it Marlay. In 1864, it was sold to Robert Tedcastle, the well-known Dublin coal merchant. His family lived there until 1925, when the deeds were passed to Philip Love, a market gardener and once Ireland’s largest tomato producer. Booking recommended.
23. Behind the Scenes Tour at The Everyman
Venue: The Everyman, 15 MacCurtain Street, Cork
Dates and times: August 16th, 11am-12pm
Cost: Free
The Everyman’s guides will bring the fascinating stories of one of Munster’s most beautiful theatres to life. Peeking behind the plush curtains, visitors will experience the backstage world of Cork’s original Palace of Varieties, established in 1897. They will also gain access to areas rarely seen by the public and marvel at the building’s many facets. The tour spans multiple levels and involves stairs, so additional needs should be specified when booking.
24. Guided Tour of the Governor’s House and Gatehouse
Venue: Nenagh Heritage Centre, Nenagh, Co Tipperary
Dates and times: August 16th, 11am-2.45pm
Cost: Free
Built in 1842, the Governor’s House and Gatehouse were part of a large jail complex housing thousands of prisoners until its closure 45 years later. The gatehouse w the site of the execution of 17 men. Today, the Governor’s House is home to Nenagh’s Genealogy and Heritage Centre – a museum where visitors can step back in time to experience rural Ireland. For National Heritage Week, several free guided tours of both structures are planned. Booking is essential.
Exploring Our Foundations
25. The Irish and American Wake
Venue: Foley and McGowan Buildings, Collooney, Co Sligo
Dates and times: August 23rd, 3pm-5pm
Cost: Free
On August 23rd, David McGowan, chief executive of McGowan’s Funeral Home, will give a talk on Irish and American wakes. After first embarking on a career in the funeral business, he quickly identified a need to improve how the deceased were prepared, while also realising that more could be done to support the bereaved. This quest has led him on a lifelong path of learning and sharing knowledge with others. In recent years, he has written a book, appeared in an RTÉ documentary and participated in radio programmes. Booking required.
26. Ardagh Festival Day
Venue: Ardagh, Co Longford
Dates and times: August 24th, 12.30pm-3.30pm
Cost: Free
Ardagh is one of the midlands’ most beautiful spots, where locals are known for their fine sense of community spirit. Over the decades, their dedication to the village has ensured it retains its rich heritage and character. On August 24th, the inhabitants will be joined by friends from the surrounding areas, and together they will celebrate Ardagh’s enduring connections.
27. The Sound of Ireland – the Story of the Irish Pipes
Venue: The Burren Visitor Centre, Kilfenora, Co Clare
Dates and times: August 24th, 2pm-4pm
Cost: Free
The Irish uilleann pipes are one of the world’s most complex acoustic instruments. Emerging during the early 18th century as a sweeter-sounding and quieter member of the bagpipe family, they require much skill and dedication to play. In recent years, they’ve enjoyed a significant surge in interest. Musician and storyteller Eugene Lambe will document the history of the instrument and its role in society and culture, here and abroad. Limited seats available.
28. A Day in the Life of a Regency Lady by Dr Melissa Shiels
Venue: Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens, Mohill, Co Leitrim
Dates and times: August 18th, 7.30pm-8.30pm
Cost: Free
Style and history enthusiasts will love this exploration of the fashion and activities of the Regency era. This costumed talk will showcase the daily hair and beauty routines, as well as the costume changes, of wealthy Regency ladies. The unique presentation will end with a demonstration of Regency tea etiquette. Booking required.
29. Lace Beginnings: Learn the Art of Limerick Lace
Venue: Limerick City Library, Barrow House, Limerick
Dates and times: August 16th, 10.30am-1pm
Cost: Free
Lace making has enjoyed a strong presence across the island of Ireland for centuries. For those curious about the tradition, Limerick City Library is hosting a beginner-friendly workshop spotlighting the art of local lace. Led by teacher Eva Ryley, with the assistance of experienced lace makers, participants will explore the intricate techniques before trying their hand at creating their own piece. Booking required.
30. Exploring Our Foundations – Influenced by Charles Bianconi
Venue: Bianconi Mortuary Chapel, Boherlahan, Co Tipperary
Dates and times: August 16th, 17th, 23rd, 2pm-5pm
Cost: Free
Charles Bianconi, pioneer of public transport in Ireland, is laid to rest in the Mortuary Chapel in Boherlahan. For three days during National Heritage Week, the chapel will be open to the public. A memorial tree will be planted to mark the 150th anniversary of Bianconi’s death, while a model of the Mortuary Chapel will be unveiled. Displays will be presented in both English and Bianconi’s native language, Italian. Local actors in period attire are expected to stage a dramatic presentation based on the life and times of the Bianconi family.
31. In the Opinion of the Censor
Venue: Irish Film Classification Office (IFCO), Smithfield, Dublin 7
Dates and times: August 19th-21st, 2.30pm-4.30pm
Cost: Free
Directed by Andrew Gallimore and Lydia Monin, this critically acclaimed feature-length documentary blends rare archival footage, expert interviews and scenes from famous censored films to explore the foundations of Irish film classification. In the Opinion of the Censor tells the story of how the role of film censor has reflected the prevailing values of Irish society over the past 100 years. Narrated by John Kelleher, Ireland’s last film censor and first director of film classification, it illustrates the fascinating story of Irish film censorship, with clips from films such as Gone With the Wind, Casablanca, Ulysses, The Graduate, and Monty Python’s Life of Brian.
National Heritage Week takes place from August 16th-24th. Visit heritageweek.ie for more information.
