National Heritage Week returns from 16–24 August and this year’s theme, 'Exploring Our Foundations', highlights the deep-rooted cultural, natural, and built traditions that shape Ireland today. Here are ten events not to miss:

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Farming Rathcroghan Conference

22 August, Co Roscommon

Focusing on the archaeological and agricultural legacy of Rathcroghan, this year’s “Food for Thought” theme explores how farmers safeguard this ancient landscape while working it sustainably.

Irish Native Rare Breed Livestock Show

23 August, Co Longford

An educational and visual showcase of rare livestock breeds, celebrating their historical and genetic importance in Irish farming heritage.

Westmeath Field Names Project Talk

23 August, Co Westmeath

Dr Aengus Ó Fionnagáin brings to life nearly 2,000 local placenames, offering insight into how landscapes were understood, named, and passed down through generations.

Farming and the Burren

17 August, Co Clare

Michael Davoren explores how Burren farming evolved from horse-drawn ploughs to modern practices, revealing how farmers have adapted without losing their connection to heritage.

Managing Grasslands for Ground-nesting Birds

16 August, Co Donegal

Learn how local farmers and conservationists work together to make Donegal’s meadows a haven for species like the corncrake, blending ecology with traditional farming.

Erriff Valley Hill Farm Tour

16 August, Co Mayo

Join the Irish Uplands Forum for a tour of this upland farm in the Partry Mountains, where you’ll discover how hill farming preserves biodiversity and community traditions.

Carlow’s Farming for Nature Celebration

16 August, Co Carlow

Meet four local farmers who’ve made nature a priority, from hedgerow conservation to pollinator-friendly pastures, showing that modern farming and nature can thrive together.

Re-enactment of 1805 Domestic Life

22 August, Co Wexford

Step back in time at St Mary’s Rectory to experience everyday Georgian life, from cooking to crafts, offering a taste of 19th century rural living.

Bandon Walled Town Festival

24 August, Co Cork

A vibrant week of heritage fun featuring butter-making, puppet shows, and the “Bandon Through the Ages” parade, celebrating the town’s medieval roots.

Woodstown Viking Festival

16-17 August Co Waterford

Celebrate Viking heritage at this family-friendly festival with reenactments, archaeology for kids, and traditional farming crafts along the scenic Greenway.

Explore the full line-up of events at heritageweek.ie/event-listings and take part in celebrating the foundations of our shared heritage.