Autumn Fête at a top west of Ireland tourist attraction
Strokestown Park in Roscommon has announced its first Autumn Fête, to be held on October 1. It promises to be a vibrant celebration of heritage and positive ageing.
Steeped in history and brimming with character, Strokestown Park will be bustling with activity. The event – from 12 noon to 5 p.m. – is designed to bring family generations together, offering an impressive array of indoor and outdoor experiences, catering to both the young and the young at heart.
As part of the Cultural Companions Programme supported by Creative Ireland and coinciding with the United Nations International Day of Older Persons and Positive Aging Week 2023, the Autumn Fête at Strokestown Park embraces the spirit of aging and will feature a rich tapestry of activities.
Highlights of the day include Edwina Guckian’s demonstration of traditional straw hats which were created for Mummers, followed by a Mummers' performance accompanied by the Ox Mountain Trio.
Elsewhere, the animal petting corner, mud bugs nature crafts, traditional woodland games, family scavenger hunt, bespoke tours of the house and gardens and much more will ensure there is something for all the family on the day.
John O’Driscoll, general manager of Strokestown Park, commented: “A brand-new event at Strokestown Park, Autumn Fête is going to be the perfect opportunity for all ages to come together and learn about Irish traditions while making memories and having fun.”
Delicious food and tantalising treats will be available at the Woodland Café, catering to various dietary requirements.
Launching the first Autumn Fête, Anne O’Donoghue, CEO of the Irish Heritage Trust (which cares for the property), stated: “The Irish Heritage Trust takes pride in celebrating people, place and participation. Our commitment lies in preserving the wisdom and experience of our cherished older community members and fostering a welcoming environment that encourages their active participation while also harnessing their invaluable knowledge to pass down to the generations that follow.”
Strokestown Park’s sister properties will also be hosting the Autumn Fête at Fota House & Gardens in Cork and Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens in Wexford. All Irish Heritage Trust properties are dog-friendly and are universally accessible.
The Irish Heritage Trust is an independent non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation, sustainable development, and interpretation of Ireland's built and natural heritage.
“We collaborate closely with local communities and foster enduring connections to fulfil our mission. The Trust extends a warm invitation to join us at one of our historic sites on October 1 as we embrace the past, relish the present with our cherished family members, and celebrate the ties that bind generations together,” said Anne.
“We hope visitors are inspired to create lasting memories, nurture cross-generational connections and friendships, and embrace the spirit of positive aging.
“By attending our Autumn Fête and exploring an Irish Heritage Trust property, visitors play a vital role in supporting our mission to safeguard and conserve these remarkable places for the future,” she continued.
Access is via a €10 ticket for adults, with €5 concession tickets and free entry for members of the Irish Heritage Trust. Advance booking is recommended. For more information, see https://strokestownpark.ie/event/autumn-fete.