Public invited to ‘Explore our Foundations’ in Tipperary as part of National Heritage Week 2025
National Heritage Week kicks off this Saturday and is on track to feature a record number of events across the island of Ireland - many of which are free - with more than 400,000 attendees expected.
This year’s celebration is particularly significant, marking 30 years since the establishment of the Heritage Council and 20 years since it took responsibility for coordinating National Heritage Week.
With support from partners such as the OPW, Fáilte Ireland, the Irish Landmark Trust and the Local Authority Waters Programme, National Heritage Week has grown to be the largest nationwide celebration of heritage annually.
Twenty years ago, in 2005 there were 260 events, and last year there were more than 2,300 events. Awareness about the importance of protecting heritage has increased significantly during this time, with research commissioned by the Heritage Council showing an increase from 46% in 1999 to 68% in 2023.
The theme of Heritage Week this year is ‘Exploring Our Foundations’, inviting members of the public to delve into the building blocks of our heritage; not just the structures, but the landscapes and cultural activities that have shaped us. Events are being held in every county across the island of Ireland spanning built, cultural and natural heritage, many of them free to attend and suitable for all ages.
Tipperary County Council Heritage Officer Róisín O'Grady said; "National Heritage Week in Tipperary offers participants a vibrant invitation to explore the deep roots of our culture from ancient myths to medieval towns, and from stonecraft to storytelling. Through workshops on the Celtic calendar, folklore sessions with Eddie Lenihan, and hands-on creative events across the county, we are celebrating not just our past, but the enduring traditions and beliefs that continue to shape our communities today.
“Whether you're tracing history through the streets of Clonmel’s medieval settlement, uncovering food traditions, or encountering legendary figures like ‘Petticoat Loose’ and Brian Boru, this year’s programme invites all ages to connect with the stories that have formed us.
“Join with us in Tipperary this Heritage Week to ‘Explore our Foundations’.”
Visit heritageweek.ie for the full programme of events taking place this week.