Excitement is building as the Timahoe Heritage Festival is set to make its highly anticipated return on June 3 and 4.
Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Timahoe Round Tower and Heritage Centre, this family-friendly festival is set to captivate visitors of all ages, offering an array of activities and entertainment.
The festival hits the ground running on June 3, treating participants to a 10K or 5K Heritage Run through the picturesque landscape of the rolling midlands, complete with ice age esker ridges, neolithic ring forts, the legendary Dún of Clopook (Home of the Púca), mediaeval churches, esteemed landed gentry estates, An Cruachan, and a host of other historical wonders.
Once the athletes reach the finish line, the excitement truly begins.
The village green transforms into a vibrant spectacle, hosting an Artisan Art & Craft Fair, and a Funfair, providing delightful experiences for festival-goers.
Meanwhile, nearby, the Viking Reenactment Village springs to life, transporting visitors back in time to witness the captivating lives of the Scandinavian invaders, all under the watchful eyes of local chieftains, warriors, and mediaeval monks.
While tensions rise in the Viking Reenactment Village, children are invited to revel in their own adventures.
The School of Irish Archaeology will offer incredible workshops, including The Big Dig – Viking House Excavation, Bead Making Workshops, and Coin Striking Workshops.
These workshops, tailored for children aged 5-12, are generously supported by The Heritage Council as part of the Laois Heritage and Biodiversity Strategy 2021 – 2026.
Not only are these sessions enjoyable and educational, but they are also free. Please note that advanced booking is required.
In addition to these captivating workshops, visitors will have the opportunity to partake in rune readings, explore displays and demonstrations, featuring Viking & Medieval Weaponry, Basket Making, Medieval Cooking, Herb Gardening, Beekeeping, authentic Viking crafts and Pottery, showcasing the rich craftsmanship and traditions of the past.
Raven Haven Aviaries will also be in attendance with an amazing collection of native birds and birds of prey, including many that have appeared in film and on TV, in productions such as the Vikings series.
Sean Murray of Laois Heritage Society will also host a talk on the famed Hiberno-Romanesque doorway of Timahoe Round Tower.
Nuala Hayes, author of Laois Folk Tales will give a talk on Irish Folklore, with special emphasis on Laois, which fits in perfectly with the festival’s exhibit of local tales from the 1937 Duchas Schools’ Collection.
The inspiration behind the Timahoe Heritage Festival stems from the Viking raid on the monastic settlement in Timahoe in 919.
The inaugural event in 2019 marked the 1100-year anniversary of that historic raid.
Building upon this momentous occasion, the festival aims to establish itself as an annual event, providing a platform to highlight and showcase the remarkable history and heritage of Timahoe.
A spokesperson said: “If you’re seeking something different, educational, and jam-packed with a variety of events and entertainment for the whole family, then mark your calendars for the Timahoe Heritage Festival this June Bank Holiday Weekend.
“Join us in Timahoe and brace yourself for an unforgettable experience. Remember – THE VIKINGS ARE COMING!”
