National Heritage Week, an annual celebration of Ireland's rich heritage, is scheduled to take place from 16th to 24th August, with an exciting program of events planned for County Wicklow. This event is coordinated nationally by The Heritage Council and locally by the Heritage Officer of Wicklow County Council.
This special week brings together heritage organisations, local groups, volunteers, national institutions and heritage sites to host a diverse array of events that showcase Ireland’s cultural, natural and built heritage. Whether it’s hidden gems or iconic landmarks, doors will be opened, stories will be shared and everyone is invited to explore and connect with the heritage that shapes our identity.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, states, “Heritage Week is a wonderful opportunity for communities throughout County Wicklow to shine a light on their local heritage. This year's theme, 'Exploring Our Foundations,' invites everyone to delve deeper into what underpins our heritage. It’s a chance to uncover not just the structures and buildings that surround us, but also the traditions, landscapes and communities that define who we are.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman said, “Wicklow County Council is delighted to support this annual celebration of Heritage Week in County Wicklow through the efforts of our Heritage Office and the engagement of our Libraries and Archives services. I would encourage everyone to explore the program and enjoy the more than 50 free events taking place throughout the county.”
Some selected highlights include:
- Two-day Michael Dwyer 200 event at Glenmalure: Seminar on Saturday 24th August and a bus tour on Sunday, 25th August
- Birds of Prey Demonstration at Russborough House
- Family History Clinics at Blessington and Greystones Libraries
- “The Names That Shaped Us”. Placenames event in Dunlavin
- Herbal Walk at Moylisha Hill
- Bell Ringing at St. Saviour's Church, Arklow
- A Day Out on the Bog at Drumgoff
- Guided Tour of St. Paul’s Church, Bray
- Family Fun Day with ‘The Big Dig’ at Glendalough
- Delgany Heritage Festival
- Barn Owl Talk and Pellets Workshop at Arklow Library
- Exploring Birdlife of the Vartry Reservoir, Roundwood
- Archaeological Post-Excavation Workshop at Kilcoole
- Open Day at Wicklow Head Lighthouse
- Family Biodiversity Day out at Newtownmountkennedy
- Treasure Hunt at Wicklow Mountains National Park
- Wicklow County Archives Open Evening
- Picnic in the Park, Greystones
- Tour of Stained Glass Windows in Bray
- Food Foraging Talk at Carnew Library
- Tour of Medieval Church and Graveyard in Donard Village
Visit www.heritageweek.ie for the full program of events. You can filter your search by ‘County Wicklow.’
The Heritage Office of Wicklow County Council has a stock of branded merchandise available for distribution to event organizers, including t-shirts, flags, and bunting.
To request items, please email dburns@wicklowcoco.ie
IMAGES
Picture 1: Participants at Barn Owl Pellet workshop for Heritage Week 2024
Picture 2: Family fun day exploring archaeology at Glendalough in Heritage Week 2024.