Immerse yourself in nineteenth-century Achill history; experience the Islandeady Rambling House at Jack’s cottage or a heritage Ceíli in Partry; take an eerie evening walk through Westport and hear the town’s dark historical stories; go whale watching at Downpatrick head. These are just some of the activities you can take part in during Heritage Week in Mayo.
National Heritage Week 2019 takes place from Saturday, August 17 to Sunday, August 25, with over 100 events taking place throughout the county. To celebrate Heritage Week people from all across Mayo have come together to organise a fantastic programme of events for the week.
With a huge variety of events happening all over the county, most of which are free, there is something for all tastes and interests: “Many of the events are run by local community and voluntary groups, to raise awareness and share a growing pride in the wonderful natural and cultural heritage resources we have in Mayo. It’s a great opportunity to get out and explore and enjoy the heritage that is all around us," said Deirdre Cunningham, Mayo Heritage Officer.
There are activities for all ages — learn about pastimes from past times in Ballina or ancient Irish ways and customs in Mulranny; experience traditional Irish street games in Turlough; take part in a workshop on beach art, river wildlife or a forest-inspired print workshop; learn about the wonderful glacial landscape of Clew Bay or the changing weather patterns in the west of Ireland.
This is just a small sample of what is happening during the week; there is something for everyone. For full details of all events taking place in Mayo throughout the week pick up your Heritage Week Event Guide from your local library, local council office, Heritage Centre or Tourist Office or see www.heritageweek.ie or www.mayococo.ie/heritage
