People of Westmeath are being encouraged to get involved in National Heritage Week by organising an event in their community. National Heritage Week 2011 takes place nationwide from August 20 to 28. Online registration is now open and all events must be registered by May 31 for inclusion in the National Heritage Week event guide.
Speaking about the week, Rebecca Reynolds, national coordinator of the week at the Heritage Council said, “Over 1,300 events took place during 2010, National Heritage Week is not only a chance for family fun and to spend quality time outdoors, but a fantastic opportunity for people to learn new skills and get involved in their local community and heritage. Times are tough for many people at the moment. It costs nothing to take part in National Heritage Week and the resulting feel-good factor on a personal and community level is priceless, not to mention the benefits to all aspects of our heritage. The week is open to everyone; you can get involved by organising your own event, attending events or volunteering with local groups in your area.”
To register your event log on to www.heritageweek.ie All events registered by May 31 will be listed in the National Heritage Week event guide which will be available free at OPW sites, heritage centres, and historical societies, Fáilte Ireland tourist offices, and libraries.”
In 2010, over 1,300 events took place ranging from medieval fairs, night-time bat walks, wildlife walks and lectures, classical music and poetry recitals, traditional music sessions, storytelling, historical re-enactments, and local history walks and talks. This year the Heritage Council, are once again hoping to increase the number of events taking place nationwide. Many events organised are free of charge and National Heritage sites also offer concession rates during the week itself.
“National Heritage Week is a fantastic opportunity for communities to showcase the natural and cultural heritage in their area, attract visitors, and raise revenue for their town or village. Once registered, event organisers will receive information packs from the Heritage Council which will offer support on how to promote their events in advance of the week. There is also information on the National Heritage Week website for event organisers who may be looking for ideas or support on how to go about hosting an event,” added Ms Reynolds.
For further information log on to www.heritageweek.ie, email [email protected], or CallSave 1850 200 878.
