On Saturday, 18th August, National Heritage Week will kick off and run for eight days until Sunday 26th August. Throughout the week, over 1500 events, the majority of which are free, will take place across Ireland. Over 600,000 people are expected to attend events, meaning a huge knock-on economic impact for towns and villages across the country.
This year, the Heritage Council has sought to focus on Ireland’s built heritage. During the week, over 600 built heritage events will take place with many sites and houses being made accessible to the public for the first time. These include Brownhall in Donegal, Free Masons Hall in Dublin, Courtown House in Kilcock, Stradbally Hall House in Laois, Kilpeacon House in Limerick, Hamwood House and Gardens in Meath, and Bracklyn House in Westmeath.
To find out what is happening throughout the week, log on to www.heritageweek.ie, download the free iPhone/Android Heritage Week Event App or pick up a copy of the Event Guide in your local tourist information office.