It’s time to celebrate the rich heritage of Fingal during National Heritage Week 2026 from August 15th – 23rd

A diverse range of events will be taking place throughout Fingal this National Heritage Week, from August 15th to 23rd, including tours, talks, walks, exhibitions, and much more.

National Heritage Week is Ireland’s annual celebration of its rich archaeological, built natural and cultural heritage. It is a week of celebration that aims to increase awareness of our heritage and hence encourage its conservation and preservation. A wide range of events will take place this National Heritage Week, August 15th to 23rd, including walks, talks, tours, exhibitions, and so much more. This year’s theme, ‘Heritage at Risk’, explores an everchanging Fingal, and how it is increasingly important to celebrate and preserve our heritage.

A Heritage Council programme, National Heritage Week continues year after year to bring together communities, families, cultural institutions, organisations, academics, and enthusiasts, while offering something for everyone to get involved with.

Mayor of Fingal Cllr Tony Murphy said: "Heritage Week is a chance to celebrate the stories, landmarks and traditions that make Fingal such a special place. As we recognise the growing importance of preserving our heritage for future generations, I want to thank Heritage Officer Christine Baker and all the community groups, organisations and volunteers who have contributed so much to this year's programme. I encourage people of all ages to take part in the many events taking place across Fingal and to discover the rich history and heritage that is all around us”.

Explore the fascinating stories behind our historic graveyards by coming the Dead Interesting: Tales from Fingal's Graveyards on August 16th, which celebrates the people and places that have shaped Fingal over the centuries. Or join us in Malahide for Heritage Night on August 19th, when members of Fingal Heritage Network will come together for quick fire talks, preceded by the launch of Changing Fingal: Stories from My Place by Fingal’s Mayor, Cllr Tony Murphy, in which six new publications will be launched.

You can also take a journey into Dublin's hidden past by coming along to Digging Deeper into Dublin: Exploring Dublin's Excavation Record, a free online event showcasing archaeological discoveries from across Dublin and the work of the four Dublin local authorities. Or join us in the Naul for Fingal Historic Water Pumps: A Wander 'Round the Wells of Naul, exploring the iconic village pumps, wells and water heritage that were once at the heart of community life. 

There are also plenty of opportunities to explore Fingal's local stories and traditions. Discover the rich history of Lusk through demonstrations of medieval handbell casting, bell-ringing traditions and free guided tours of the historic Round Tower, church and Belfry. Or why not come along to Oldtown, where you can learn about the remarkable artistry of Harry Clarke, one of Ireland’s most renowned stained-glass artists, and enjoy a presentation on the stained-glass windows in the Fingal area. Heritage Week will also offer a Guided Tour of Historic Shackleton's Gardens in Clonsilla, offering a unique opportunity to explore one of Dublin 15's hidden heritage gems. 

As part of the Heritage Week activities, you can also enjoy a fascinating talk on the iconic John Hinde Postcards in Ardgillan Castle, Balbriggan, or step back in time and experience Argillan Castle through the eyes of one of its former residents by attending the Living History Tour. Ardillan Castle will also offer an Ogham writing workshop for kids during Heritage Week, as well as a guided tour of the gardens. Or how about joining a remarkable tour of the history of Kenure House in Rush, or if you would like a tour through Irish, why not come to our tour of Skerries Mills or Malahide Castle. The activities don’t stop there, with events for all ages and interests, there are many opportunities to discover, explore and celebrate the heritage of Fingal during National Heritage Week 2026. 

Fingal Heritage Officer Christine Baker said: “This year’s theme, Heritage at Risk, highlights not only the threat to our traditional skills, language, archaeology, historic buildings and natural heritage but our response and resilience in a rapidly changing Fingal. Heritage Week 2026 is about re-engaging with our living, natural, and ancient heritage to ensure its continuation for future generations. So, whether its walks or talks, bells, graveyards or gardens there is something for everyone to enjoy during Heritage Week 2026 in Fingal”.

To see the full Heritage Week programme visit www.heritageweek.ie.