Wicklow County Council is excited to announce its participation in National Biodiversity Week 2025, a nationwide celebration that encourages communities to engage with the natural world and recognise the value of biodiversity in their daily lives. The events will take place from 16th to 25th May and feature a dynamic series of activities across the county, aimed at fostering connections with nature and highlighting Wicklow’s rich ecological heritage.
Coordinated by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), National Biodiversity Week aims to inspire people across Ireland to learn more about biodiversity and how they can contribute to its protection. Wicklow County Council is proud to once again present a locally tailored line-up of activities that promote curiosity, connection and care for nature.
“Protecting Wicklow’s natural heritage isn’t just about conservation; it’s about community, health, and the future of our children,” said Cllr. Paul O'Brien, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council. “National Biodiversity Week is an opportunity for everyone to reconnect with the landscapes that make this county so special and to learn how even small actions can have a big impact. I encourage everyone to get involved. We’re excited to welcome both residents and visitors to join us in celebrating the landscapes, species and people that make Wicklow wild and special.”
Highlights of the 2025 program include a 24-hour BioBlitz to launch the week at Kilmacurragh National Botanic Gardens, where experts and volunteers will collaborate to record as many species as possible. Nature enthusiasts can participate in a Dawn Chorus at Brittas Bay, while a Walk & Talk on Rhododendron Control in the Wicklow Uplands will explore the challenges of managing invasive species. Additionally, a range of hands-on workshops will provide practical tools for building stronger connections with the natural world.
Events supported by Wicklow County Council
3pm Friday 16th May, 3pm Saturday 17th May: 24 Hours, BioBlitz at the National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh. All welcome, no booking required.
Thursday 22nd May, 2pm-5pm: ‘Beyond the Bloom’; Battling invasive species in upland Ecosystems.
Book on https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/beyond-the-bloom-battling-invasives-in-upland-ecosystems-tickets-1357069002919
Saturday 24th May, 4:30am – 6:30am: Dawn Chorus Walk at Brittas Bay, meeting at North Beach carpark. All welcome, no booking required.
Saturday 24th May, 10am – 12pm: Connect to the Season: A Botanical Walk with Foraging, Folklore & Forest Bathing, St. Patrick's Missionary Society, Highpark Upper, Kiltegan, W91 Y022. Booking is essential by emailing eao@wicklowcoco.ie.
Sunday 25th May, 10am – 12pm: Connect to the Season: A Botanical Walk with Foraging, Folklore & Forest Bathing, Clermont House, Rathnew, A67 X566. Booking essential by emailing eao@wicklowcoco.ie
This year, Wicklow County Council is also proud to expand the celebration through its Library Service, offering an engaging program of biodiversity-themed events in local libraries across the county. These talks and workshops aim to make knowledge and inspiration accessible to all, bringing biodiversity into the heart of our communities.
Library Biodiversity Events Across Wicklow
- Greystones Library
- Tuesday 20th May at 7pm: David Lawlor – Oysters in Greystones Harbour
- Thursday 22nd May at 6:30pm: Alex Dobbs & Aleksandra – Bees & Gardening for Biodiversity
- Bray Library
- Monday 19th May at 11am: Declan Murphy – Biodiversity and Climate Change
- Ballywaltrim Library
- Wednesday 21st May at 6:30pm: Declan Murphy – Biodiversity and Climate Change
- Arklow Library
- Wednesday 21st May at 2pm: Unwind with Plants – Create a Bird Feeder
- Blessington Library
- Friday 24th May at 2pm: Gardening for Biodiversity with Pat Hunt
- Enniskerry Library
- Wed 21st May at 6:30pm: Conor O'Brien – The Birds of County Wicklow
- Tinahely Library
- Saturday’s 17th and 24th May at 12pm: Seed Swap and Sow
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These events offer relaxed and engaging opportunities for people of all ages to explore biodiversity topics within their own communities.
“These events provide valuable opportunities for learning, connection, and community action,” said Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council. “Biodiversity is essential to our health, well-being, and resilience and everyone has a role to play in its protection.”
Whether you are a seasoned ecologist or simply curious about the wildlife around you, there is something for everyone during National Biodiversity Week 2025.
Nationwide event listings can also be found at: Biodiversity Week
All participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.