National Heritage Week 2025 (16-24 August) is the perfect chance to explore Ireland’s cultural, built and natural heritage together as a family.
From hands-on workshops to nature walks and historical demonstrations, there is something for everyone this year under the theme ‘Exploring Our Foundations.’ We have rounded up the top family-friendly Heritage Week events across the country that will entertain and educate everyone from toddlers to senior adults.
Step back in time to discover the role of the donkey in Ireland's heritage, try traditional crafts and explore a working farmstead.
When: 24th August, 11:30 AM - 4 PM
Where: Sathya Sai Sanctuary Trust for Nature Castlebaldwin, Sligo
Entry: Free
From re-enactments and archaeological digs to harp recitals and circus performances, this festival honours Bandon’s past from its 17th-century origins to its diverse present.
When: 16 to 24 August, 11 AM onwards
Where: Bandon Town Hall and other venues around Bandon, Cork. Check website for more details.
Entry: Free and ticketed events
Meet costumed guides from Laoch Living History and relive the 17th century through interactive displays with musketeers, gunners, blacksmiths and more. You can also join the battlefield walk at 2 PM to learn about the tactics and stories from historic Irish battles.
When: 17, 23 and 24 August, 11 AM - 4 PM
Where: Oldbridge House, Oldbridge Drogheda, Meath
Entry: Free
Featuring costumed characters, traditional games and street theatre performances, this immersive event takes you back through Athlone’s heritage with fun surprises for all ages.
When: 17 August, 12 - 4 PM
Where: 65 Connaught Street, Athlone, Westmeath
Entry: Free
Head down to Clone Strand for a fun day by the sea with beach games, art competitions and eco-education activities.
When: 24 August, 12 - 3 PM
Where: Clone Strand, Wexford
Entry: Free
Kayak in the harbour and learn about the history of Dún Laoghaire and the connection of the town to the sea. The tour will have a fun level of Irish included, making it ideal for bilingual households or anyone looking to promote the Irish language.
When: 23 and 24 August, 11:30 AM - 1:45 PM
Where: Moontour, Coal Harbour Car Park, Dún Laoghaire Harbour, Dublin
Entry: €16.50
This is a hands-on workshop allowing young warriors aged 6-12 to build and decorate their own heritage-inspired shield. Learn about Irish and Viking traditions, and bring home unique masterpieces
When: 19 and 23 August, 11 AM - 1 PM
Where: Ferns Castle Visitor Centre, The Square Ferns Co. Wexford
Entry: Free, but limited spaces
Find as many sea creatures and seaweeds as possible in this family-friendly walk along the beach and rock pools. You can also learn more about the importance of the marine life of Bantry Bay.
When: 24 August, 11 AM - 12:30 PM
Where: Gearhies, Sheep's Head Peninsula, Cork
Entry: Free, but limited spaces. Booking required.
This year’s selection of new international films and Irish classics share themes of imagination and being yourself. The festival is perfect for families looking for indoor cultural experiences. When: 16 - 17 August, 11 AM - 6 PM
Where: Irish Film Institute, Temple Bar, Dublin
Entry: Admission fee varies. Booking required:
Expect live music, demonstrations, face painting and crafts as the Skerries Mills Industrial Heritage Museum celebrates crop harvest time on site.
When: 23 August, 11 AM - 5:30 PM
Where: Skerries Mills Crop Field, Entry at Mill Hill Park, Skerries, Dublin
Entry: Free
National Heritage Week events are interactive, often free and tailored to spark curiosity in young minds, making them some of the best things to do with kids in Ireland this August.
To see the full list of events near you, see our event listings.
