The launch of Heritage Week 2025 in Laois took place in the historic setting of Old St Peter’s Church and Graveyard.
Heritage Week runs from Saturday August 16 until Sunday August 24.
There are more than 50 different events planned across the county over the course of the week – these can be viewed here.
At the launch, Cathaoirleach Barry Walsh mentioned that his appointment as the new Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council 105 years after his great great-grandfather held the same role “gives me a strong sense of connection with the past and tradition in Laois, which makes me very proud”.
The Cathaoirleach went on to say that “going to school in Heywood CS in Ballinakill, I was surrounded by the magnificent Heywood Garden’s everyday, which were famously designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.
“When you’re younger you can sometimes take these things for granted.
“But what’s certain is that our heritage in all its forms, from family history to our landscape sustains us, and we have a responsibility to protect it, promote it, and increase awareness of it, and that is exactly what Heritage Week is designed to do.
“So I’m delighted to officially launch Heritage Week 2025.”
Heritage Officer, Thomas Carolan said: “Heritage Week is a unique opportunity for people to learn and experience something new
about the built, natural, or cultural heritage in their area.
“Heritage Week is only made possible by the voluntary work of the event organisers.
“Whether it’s a history talk, farm walk, or craft exhibition, it takes time and effort to prepare and organise these events, so I’d like to thank all those in Laois who have organised events in 2025.”
Thomas went on to say: “I’m delighted with the number and variety of Heritage Week events happening in Laois in 2025.
“There are returning events, which is always great to see. But there are many brand- new events in 2025.
“There are a range of fascinating talks hosted in the libraries around the county, there are tours of Stradbaly Hall, Dongahmore Workhouse, Emo Court, craft workshops, and much much more.
“So I’d like to encourage everyone to browse the list of Laois Heritage Week events and to go and enjoy.”
Photo: Alf Harvey.
Photo: Alf Harvey.
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