Archaeology digs, medieval festivals, a pollinator party and a recreation of Traveller life in the 1950s are just some of the events taking place during National Heritage Week.
More than half a million people are expected to attend more than 2,000 events running across the country from Saturday, most of which are free.
Highlights from the Heritage Week programme include the Big Dig at Glendalough, Co Wicklow, on Saturday. Children aged 5-12 years are invited to explore the Viking world through a simulated and controlled archaeology dig, and to experience what it is like to be an archaeologist by learning how to excavate the remains of a Viking house.
A traditional rowing experience will take place at the East Wall Sports Group tomorrow afternoon from 4pm-6pm. Participants of all ages are invited to try rowing three of Ireland’s traditional rowing boats, an east coast skiff, naomhóg and currach.
Traveller life
Other activities in the next week include a recreation of Traveller life in the 1950s at the National Museum of Ireland in Castlebar, Co Mayo, next Wednesday, Loughrea Medieval Festival in Galway which runs from the 24th-26th and trilingual wildlife stories at Curraghchase Forest Park in Limerick on Saturday week.
A “Bee Smart” pollinator party will take place at Mountrath Amenity Area in Laois on August 26th. It will involve honey sampling and a chance to build a bee nest.
Chairman of the Heritage Council, Michael Parsons, said Ireland's heritage is as wonderfully diverse and unique as the communities, volunteers and individuals who champion it in its many forms.
Celebration
“Heritage Week is an opportunity for us to come together in celebration of our traditions and stories, while showing appreciation to all those who help make them accessible to the public. With events that span music, the environment, history, and nature there really is something for everyone. As the summer holidays drawing to a close, we hope the large selection of family-friendly events will appeal to those looking to make some lasting memories and end the break on a high note.”
Meanwhile, all Landmark Trust properties will be open free of charge on August 26th.
The full programme of Heritage Week events is available at heritageweek.ie.