Explore Mayo’s living heritage during Heritage Week

LEARN the traditional skills of dry-stone walling, explore sheep wool traditions in the Louisburgh Killeen area, hear about the customs and cures associated with our holy wells or take a lunchtime stroll around Castlebar and explore the rocks hiding in plain sight and the stories they hold.

National Heritage Week takes place from today (Saturday, August 12) to Sunday, August 20, with a wide range of events taking place all over the county. To celebrate Heritage Week, people from across Mayo have come together to organise a fantastic programme of events for the week.

Speaking at the launch of Heritage Week in Mayo, Councillor Michael Loftus, cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, said: “There is a huge variety of events happening all over the county, many of which are run by local community and voluntary groups, to raise awareness and share their pride in the wonderful heritage we have in Mayo.”

Deirdre Cunningham, heritage officer, said: “This year’s theme is Living Heritage, and everyone is invited to explore the traditions, practices, knowledge and skills that have been passed down from generation to generation. It’s a great opportunity to get out and explore and enjoy the heritage that is all around us.”

There are activities for all ages, tastes, and interests - take a guided nature walk along a river or forest trail, learn how to care for archives and books or learn how natural materials and traditional techniques are used in rope making.

This is just a small sample of what is happening during the week. For full and up to date details of all events taking place in Mayo throughout the week see https://www.heritageweek.ie/.