Full Programme Unvealed For Wicklow During National Heritage Week

Bat Walk anyone? Over 80 events are planned in the county with walks, talks, open days and demonstrations to pick from.

National Heritage Week 2026 returns to County Wicklow from August 15th to 23rd. Are you ready? A packed programme of more than 80 events will celebrate the county's natural, built and cultural heritage.  

This year's festival theme 'Heritage at Risk' highlights the importance of protecting historic buildings, archaeological sites, biodiversity, folklore and traditional skills.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Dr Caroline Winstanley said "Heritage Week gives communities across the county a chance to celebrate the places, traditions and landscapes that shape local identity."

Chief Executive Emer O'Gorman is encouraging people of all ages to explore the programme, with events organised by local groups, volunteers, libraries, heritage organisations and site managers throughout the county.

Highlights across Wicklow

The programme features a wide range of free and family-friendly activities, including:

• A family day at Glendalough with a hands-on archaeology "Big Dig" and Lego workshop.
• The West to East Mountain Walk, celebrating Wicklow's sheep-droving heritage and finishing in Glenmalure.
• The Michael Dwyer – Man of the Mountains bus tour from Rathdangan.
• Delgany Village Heritage Day.
• The Shaking Bog Festival in Glencree from August 21st to 23rd
• An open day at Wicklow Head Lighthouse.
• A literary walking tour of Bray Seafront.
• Guided tours of Baltinglass Abbey and Shillelagh Heritage Trail.
• Nature walks in Newtownmountkennedy, Enniskerry and along the River Vartry.
• Demonstrations of traditional stone-cutting at Ballyknockan Quarry and Flaherty Stone Works.
• Local history talks, genealogy workshops, storytelling, author events and family activities at Wicklow libraries.

Other events include workshops on minor place names, heritage seminars, birdwatching and bat walks, and the launch of the 80th anniversary publication of Miracle on Djouce at Wicklow Library.

Most events are free to attend, although advance booking is required for some activities.

The full programme, including booking information and event details, is available at heritageweek.ie.