Top things to do for Heritage Week at Mayo museum
NATIONAL Heritage Week takes place this year from August 16 to 24. This annual initiative celebrates Ireland’s built, natural and cultural heritage and there will be hundreds of free events happening at participating venues across the country.
The National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park is delighted to participate once again with a free programme of events. Have a look below at some of the highlight activities to enjoy.
Traditional woodturning with Eoin Reardon
Join Eoin Reardon, skilled woodworker and heritage craft advocate, as part of a traditional skills demonstration from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 24.
Eoin will be sharing his passion for traditional woodworking, from hand tools to heritage joinery techniques, and will showcase the beauty and precision of working with wood the old-fashioned way.
This demonstration is a must-see for anyone interested in sustainable craft, local history, or simply the joy of making. Admission is free. No booking is required.
Basket weaving with Ould Crafty
Step back in time with Tom Delaney, known locally as 'Ould Crafty', as he demonstrates the age-old art of basket weaving using locally grown willow. This is part of a traditional skills demonstration from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 24.
Watch as Tom transforms natural materials into beautiful, functional baskets using techniques passed down through generations.
This is a rare opportunity to learn about the heritage of rural craftsmanship in Co. Mayo. Admission is free. No booking is required.
Free guided tours
Join a free guided tour to journey back in time and marvel at the innovation and endurance of our rural ancestors through the National Folklife Collection. Then discover more about the life of the Fitzgerald family and the history and architectural style of Turlough Park House and gardens.
These free guided tours take place at 2 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. each Saturday. Why not schedule in a visit during Heritage Week to learn more about the history and heritage of Turlough Park.
Tours start at museum reception. No booking is required. Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Community Constellations for Dark Skies
Join the Friends of Mayo Dark Skies from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, to celebrate the launch of the heritage funded project Community Constellations for Dark Skies at the National Museum at Turlough Park.
Enjoy live music and participate in a free, drop-in lantern making workshop with Wilderland artist Tom Meskell. Hear all about County Mayo’s progress towards becoming a Dark Sky Reserve.
Admission is free and no booking is required.
A Celebration of Turlough Tales
Turlough Archaeological and Heritage Society are inviting all to come along to a special evening event called 'A Celebration of Turlough Tales' for National Heritage Week. The event takes place from 7 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, in the courtyard workshop room at the National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar.
Participants will get an update on the Turlough Heritage Action Plan completed in 2024 and learn about some of the new heritage projects which are currently underway to promote the wonderful heritage of the local area.
For further details, telephone (086) 3301142 or email lynda.mccormack@yahoo.co.uk.
Museum opening hours
Admission to the National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park House & Gardens is free. The exhibition galleries are open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday to Monday from 1 to 5 p.m.