13 Aug 2025
With over 100 events taking place for National Heritage Week in County Donegal, it’s an ideal opportunity for people to explore the natural, built, cultural and archaeological heritage around us. National Heritage Week takes place from Saturday, August 16 until Sunday, August 24 and most events are free. The full programme of events is available on-line at www.heritageweek.ie
“This year’s theme is Exploring Our Foundations and everyone is encouraged to explore our heritage and to examine the foundations upon which our communities, cultures and landscapes are built” explained Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage Officer. “There’s an impressive programme of events taking place all across the county organised by heritage organisations, community groups and individuals – many on a voluntary basis. It’s their commitment, dedication and effort that makes Heritage Week in County Donegal the great success it is. The range of events include built heritage open houses, traditional skills and crafts demonstrations, guided walks, heritage site visits, fieldtrips, exhibitions, talks, workshops, boat trips, bus tours, historical re-enactments, launch events, traditional music and children’s activities. There are over 20 events organised or part-funded by the Culture Division of Donegal County Council that includes the Heritage Office, Biodiversity Office, Museum, Archives, Library Service, Arts Office and the Regional Cultural Centre.”
“Events can be registered right up until the start of Heritage Week so keep an eye on the Heritage Week website or your local newspapers for further details of events in your area. The National Heritage Week website allows you to search by area and by day so you can plan your Heritage Week itinerary. County Donegal Heritage Week event organisers can collect free National Heritage Week-branded merchandise at the County Museum, High Road, Letterkenny. These include high-visibility vests, t-shirts, hats and bunting.”
There are also themed days as part of the week. Heritage Open Doors takes place on Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17 and there will be civic and historic properties open to the public for free. In County Donegal, there are several Heritage Open Doors events taking place throughout the week. Wild Child Day takes place on Saturday, August 23 and encourages children and families to make the most of the outdoors to enjoy and explore the heritage and biodiversity in their locality. Water Heritage Day takes place on Sunday, August 24 and celebrates Ireland’s water, our connections with it and how our history and heritage has been shaped by the sea, rivers, lakes and wetlands.
National Heritage Week is an integral part of European Heritage Days celebrated in over 40 countries across Europe with a theme of Heritage & Architecture this year. National Heritage Week is coordinated by The Heritage Council & Local Authority Heritage Officers with support from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.
Full details and updates are available on the National Heritage Week website at: www.heritageweek.ie