Heritage Week takes place from 19 to 27 August with this year’s theme being Nature.
There is something for everyone during Heritage Week. From exploring the history of Laois on a walking tour of Portlaoise, to getting your hands dirty at archaeological digs in Abbeyleix and Mountrath.
You can find out about the recent excavations into Portlaoise’s medieval Fort on two walking tours – one led by adults and the other led by children.
Enjoy the high roads and byways of Laois with the Bulfin Heritage Cycle. Or journey to Castlewood Organic Farm in Durrow or Ballykilcavan near Stradbally, to find out more about the wildlife that surrounds us and how faming and wildlife go hand in hand.
Picture: Alf Harvey
Visit Donaghmore Museum, this time to learn about the wildlife that has made its home within the walls of the former workhouse.
Plenty for children
Children will certainly be busy bees during the week. From a Pollinator Party at Portlaoise Town Park, the Bee Movie showing at the Dunamaise Arts Centre, a sneak musical performance inspired by the bees, to hands on wildlife workshops for children at the local libraries.
Heritage Officer with Laois County Council, Catherine Casey, said, “Most of the events are free so that the heritage of Laois can be accessed and appreciated by all. For nine action packed days, Ireland celebrates not only heritage but community involvement and a deep connection between people and place.”
Over 400,000 people attended almost 2,000 events nationwide for last year’s Heritage Week.
An event guide for the week for Laois is available to download at www.laois.ie/heritage, or in hard copy at all local libraries.
SEE ALSO – Your guide to what’s on in Laois over the weekend
