North Mayo is all set for a wide range of events taking place for National Heritage Week 2022. The week kicks off this Saturday 13 August and runs until Sunday 21 August.
In-person event and digital project organisers have responded with enthusiasm to this year’s theme of sustainability and biodiversity, creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds from across Mayo to learn more about the county’s built, cultural, and natural heritage, helping to ensure its preservation and protection into the future.
Local highlights in North Mayo from this year’s National Heritage Week programme include:
- Mayo Dark Skies Night Walk at Wild Nephin National Park and a host of other exciting Heritage Week events- (view full programme here)
- A Secret Garden Circus at the Jackie Clarke Museum
- Blacksod Military Sites Walking Tour
- Bespoke Museum and Friary Tours in Period Costume at the Michael Davitt Museum
- Dear Old Ballina – a celebration of Ballina People (organised by Ballina Chamber of Commerce) and taking place at the Ballina Arts Centre
- A wide range of events at North Mayo Heritage Centre including blacksmithing, genealogy and organic gardening to name but a few. View full programme here.
- Foxford River Fest
- 1798 Living History Encampment Re-enactment in Killala
- Whale Watching at Annagh Head
- Belmullet Water Walk organised by the Belmullet Tidy Town Committee
For a full list of events taking place in Mayo click here.
Chief Executive of the Heritage Council of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan said: “This year, National Heritage Week looks to the past to create a better future. The theme of sustainable heritage and biodiversity encourages us all to reflect on how our history and heritage can play a part in protecting our planet.”
“Whether it’s learning a new skill like embroidery, blacksmithing or pottery making; better understanding how to prevent biodiversity loss in our own back gardens or country lanes; or gaining fresh insight into the history of our art, music or the Irish language and sharing this knowledge among friends and family, there are endless ways to get involved.”
Two themed days will take place during National Heritage Week. Saturday 20th August is Wild Child Day. This initiative invites children to go outside and explore Ireland’s natural heritage and biodiversity in a fun and enjoyable manner. Sunday 21st August is Water Heritage Day. People are invited to participate in National Heritage Week events that celebrate water and our connections with it.
For a full list of events taking place, the Heritage Council is encouraging people to visit www.heritageweek.ie.
