The Office of Public Works (OPW) has unveiled a major programme of events taking place across its heritage sites during National Heritage Week 2025, which runs from tomorrow, Saturday, to Sunday 24 August.

The week-long celebration is organised by the Heritage Council and is one of Ireland’s largest cultural events.

This year’s theme, “Exploring Our Foundations,” invites the public to engage with the structures, landscapes, traditions and cultural practices that have shaped Irish life across the centuries. The OPW’s line-up of over 100 events includes guided tours, music, craft workshops, historical re-enactments and activities for families and children at historic locations throughout the country.

Launching the initiative, Minister of State for the OPW Kevin “Boxer” Moran said the theme was well matched to the OPW’s ongoing conservation work and reflected the diverse ways in which communities connect with heritage. He also highlighted the free admission day on Saturday 16 August, encouraging people of all ages to take part.

Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, praised the OPW as a key partner in the festival and noted the event’s lasting impact on public understanding of Ireland’s natural, built and cultural heritage.

Among the highlights of this year’s OPW programme are a Family Fun Day at Glendalough Visitor Centre with archaeological digs and LEGO workshops, living history performances at the Battle of the Boyne site, music and drawing events at Sligo Abbey, and historical tours and nature walks at Ross Castle in Kerry. Visitors can also attend interactive workshops at JFK Arboretum and Charles Fort, and take part in Irish-language tours at sites including Doneraile Court, Trim Castle, and Kilmainham Gaol.

Free entry is also available to selected sites when arriving with a Local Link ticket, including the Rock of Cashel, Clonmacnoise, Portumna Castle, and Donegal Castle.

Full details of OPW Heritage Week events are available at heritageireland.ie.