Embrace your inner Viking, go whale watching of the stunning south coast, knit a traditional sweater of dance with the locals as National Heritage Week promises a fun filled August.

Every year millions of Europeans visit historical monuments and sites throughout Europe on European Heritage Day, which aims to promote awareness of the built, natural and cultural heritage and this year Ireland will be marking the occasion with over 1100 events spanning a full week, from August 21st-29th.

Each year national and local community organizations participate by organizing a huge range of diverse events throughout the country, many of which are free and whether it’s nature and wildlife, folklore, historic buildings or traditional crafts, National Heritage Week has something for everyone!

With over 110 events taking place around Ireland it would impossible to name them all, but a few of the great events taking place include medieval fairs, night-time bat walks, wildlife walks and lectures, classical music and poetry recitals, traditional music sessions, storytelling, historical re-enactments, and local history walks and talks and maritime and coastal events. In addition many heritage sites and stately homes will offer free admission or concessions.

National Heritage Week is a unique opportunity for families and everyone to get involved in Ireland’s heritage, learn more about it, preserve it for future generations and above all, enjoy what this great island has to offer!

Information taken from www.tourismirelandinfo.com