Beekeeping demonstration and lots more on busy Mayo museum programme
JOIN Jude Walsh from the Mayo Beekeepers Association for a fascinating live demonstration and talk on beekeeping from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 27.
This special event is held in conjunction with the temporary exhibition The Murmur of Bees - an exciting exploration of the magic of Ireland’s bees and their deep influence on our culture and environment. Discover the world of bees at this engaging event - perfect for nature lovers, families, and curious minds of all ages.
Admission is free, with booking required. Call (094) 9031751 or email bookingscountrylife@museum.ie.
KNITTING CIRCLE
Learn a new skill for life with the museum knitting and crochet circle. Join a drop-in session from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, October 3.
Beginners are welcome. This is a free, drop-in activity for adults and children aged seven years plus. No booking is required.
MAYO DARK SKIES
Already home to Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Park, Mayo boasts some of the darkest and most pristine night skies in the world.
Join the Mayo Dark Sky team from 3.30 to 4.30 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, to learn more about this incredible natural resource and the efforts underway to preserve it. Whether you're a stargazer, environmentalist, or simply curious, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos and the community working to protect it.
Suitable for all ages, admission is free and booking is required.
LEARN ABOUT COOPERAGE
Join a live cooperage demonstration by Dair Nua from Foxford from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 18.
Discover the traditional art of cask repair and restoration, as skilled coopers showcase the tools, techniques and dedication required to bring these historic vessels back to life. Learn about the craftsmanship and the rich heritage of cooperage in Ireland. Afterwards explore the National Folklife Collection to view beautifully crafted cooper-made items and the associated tools of the trade.
This is a free event. No booking is required.
MIDTERM
The museum’s popular Halloween celebrations will run from Saturday, October 25, to Sunday, November 2.
Throughout the midterm break, young visitors can blast off plenty of energy with the Scarecrow Jack Hunt in the woods. This fun outdoor trail is based on the character of Stingy Jack who inspired the Jack o’Lantern tradition at Halloween. There will also be plenty of crafting activities to enjoy and an indoor ‘Scary Objects’ trail in the exhibition galleries.
TOURS
Take part in a free guided tour each Saturday at 2 p.m. or 3.30 p.m. Tours start at reception. No booking is required.
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.