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Over 125 Events Planned in Meath for 20th Annual National Heritage Week

Heritage Week Flag Raising 2025
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County-wide

Get a chance to be an archaeologist at the Black Friary Community Dig in Trim, celebrate and explore the heritage of Duleek, come along to the library and learn about Ireland’s bogs and pollinators, hear about barn owls and butterflies in Meath, enjoy a guided walk and tour of the architecture of Navan, Dunboyne, Kells, Oldcastle and Athboy, visit an exhibition on 175 Years of Navan Railway and experience the Bog Bothy at Girley Bog.

These are just a few of the activities you can engage in during Heritage Week in Meath.

 

Now in its 20th year, National Heritage Week continues to be one of Ireland’s largest cultural events. In 2025, it runs from Saturday, 16 August to Sunday, 24 August, and it brings together communities, families, and individuals across the country to celebrate Ireland’s rich and diverse heritage.

 

This year’s theme, “Exploring Our Foundations”, invites us to reflect on the legacies of our past and examine the foundations upon which our communities, cultures, and identities are built.

 

Numerous organisations, local groups, and individuals will be hosting events that celebrate the rich heritage of County Meath. On Saturday, 23 August, budding archaeologists will get the opportunity to "dig" for their own treasure at the Hill of Tara with the OPW to mark Wild Child Day.

 

For those interested in the health of our rivers, Ratoath Tidy Towns will host an event for Water Heritage Day.

 

With over 125 events taking place throughout the county including walks, talks, exhibitions, fun family days and living history displays, there is something for everyone. 

 

Nearly all these events are free, and many are suitable for children.

 

Launching National Heritage Week in Meath, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Wayne Harding said: "Heritage Week is a fantastic celebration of our wonderful natural and cultural heritage and offers everyone the opportunity to get out, explore and enjoy their local area and I’m delighted to see such an exciting and diverse range of events and activities planned."

 

Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said: "National Heritage Week has become one of Ireland’s largest cultural events, celebrating Ireland’s built, natural and cultural heritage and aiming to generate awareness, appreciation and preservation of our wonderful heritage resource. A special word of thanks to the organisers of all the events. Without their hard work, dedication and voluntary commitment, Heritage Week would not be possible."

 

For full details of all events taking place in Meath throughout National Heritage Week, please see here.

 

National Heritage Week is coordinated nationally by The Heritage Council in partnership with The National Lottery, Fáilte Ireland, the Office of Public Works (OPW), the Irish Landmark Trust, Local Authorities, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.  At county level, National Heritage Week is co-ordinated and supported by local authority heritage and biodiversity officers, their colleagues and numerous local heritage groups and organisations.