Hertitage Hero Award Athlone231026 8

National Heritage Week Awards 2026 - Winners and Runners-up Announced

The National Heritage Week Awards 2026 ceremony took place on Thursday, 29 October 2026, celebrating the individuals, community groups and organisations whose outstanding events helped showcase and protect Ireland's built, natural and cultural heritage.

The 2026 Awards recognise the most engaging and inspiring events from National Heritage Week 2026. Over the course of nine days from 15–23 August, communities across Ireland came together to celebrate local heritage through walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions, performances and family events. This year's theme, Heritage at Risk, encouraged people to explore and protect the places, traditions, skills and stories that form an important part of our shared heritage.
Gearoid O Brien NHW Hero 2026

National Heritage Week 2026 Heritage Hero Announced

The Heritage Council is delighted to share that the 2026 National Heritage Week Heritage Hero has been awarded to Gearóid O'Brien for his lifelong dedication to preserving, promoting and celebrating the heritage of Athlone and Ireland.

The Heritage Hero award honours an individual or organisation that has made an outstanding, long-term contribution to the protection and promotion of Ireland's heritage. Unlike the other categories, this award is based solely on public nominations and is considered a lifetime achievement award.
Heritage Open Doors Main Image

Heritage Open Doors: 5 Historic Properties to Visit During National Heritage Week

As part of the 2026 National Heritage Week, the Heritage Open Doors Initiative is an opportunity for the public to explore historic buildings, see behind doors not usually open and learn about the hidden and not so hidden heritage of buildings in the country.
Whether you are curious about iconic public landmarks or want to experience behind-the-scenes tours, these events off er a unique way to connect with Ireland's rich built heritage.
Natural Heritage at Risk Main Photo

Natural Heritage at Risk: 5 National Heritage Week Events Safeguarding Ireland's Biodiversity

Ireland's landscapes are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including ancient woodlands, wildfl owers, birds, rivers and coastlines. This National Heritage Week, there's no better time to slow down, step outside and discover the natural treasures that surround us.
These events off er the perfect opportunity to connect with Ireland's biodiversity and learn how we can all play a part in protecting it.