Your Guide to Heritage Week in Meath 17th-25th August
National Heritage Week takes place from the 17th to 25th August 2019.
This year’s theme is PASTIMES | PAST TIMES. Heritage Week is co-ordinated by the Heritage Council, in conjunction with the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and is part of European Heritage Days, which is celebrated in 40 countries across Europe. National Heritage Week is a fantastic opportunity for people to see, learn and discover more about their local environment and is also an opportunity to raise awareness of County Meath’s built, cultural and natural heritage.
This year’s theme of PASTIMES | PAST TIMES gives a unique opportunity to deepen the connection between people and heritage, and build a legacy of increased public engagement. The week is a chance to share heritage stories in new ways, with new people.
Heritage Week is asking everyone from young people, to new arrivals to Ireland, to retired people, to share their stories about PASTIMES | PAST TIMES. The week is a chance to take a break, learn more about heritage and make a connection with the wonderful Meath landscape. Numerous events including walks, talks, exhibitions, family activity/fun days, living history displays and a community archaeology dig will take place throughout Meath – so whatever your interest you will find an event to suit..
A special thanks to the organisers of all the events, without their work and dedication Heritage Week would not be possible. I hope you all enjoy this year’s Heritage Week.
— Loreto Guinan, Heritage Officer, Meath County Council
A comprehensive programme of events is planned in County Meath giving you an opportunity to experience and enjoy its fascinating heritage. Most events are free. Children are welcome, but should be accompanied by a responsible adult. Outdoor events may be cancelled because of weather, so you should check with the contact if you are concerned. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing for outdoor events, such as guided walks. Event organisers are responsible for safety and insurance of each event. Full descriptions of each event are available on www.heritageweek.ie. Please note that the responsibility for hosting events lies with the event organiser and they should be contacted directly for event queries.
ARCHAEOLOGY
Blackfriary Community Archaeology Dig
Blackfriary Archaeology Field School and Meath County Council will be hosting a Community Archaeological Excavation opened to all members of the public over the age of 18 years from August 13th to 24th 2019. Join us as we uncover the Monastic Gardens at the Blackfriary. Come along and be an archaeologist, guided by professional archaeologists, and discover the joy of digging. Venue: Blackfriary Archaeology Site, Griffin Park, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Blackfriary Community Archaeology Heritage Project (BCHAP) Email: info@bafs.ie Telephone: 085 7563671 Website: www.bafs.ie
Tue 13th Aug. 10:00 16:30 Wed 14th Aug. 10:00 16:30 Thu 15th Aug. 10:00 16:30 Fri 16th Aug. 10:00 16:30 Sat 17th Aug 10:00 16:30 Mon 19th Aug. 10:00 16:30 Tue 20th Aug. 10:00 16:30 Wed 21st Aug. 10:00 16:30 Thu 22nd Aug. 10:00 16:30 Fri 23rd Aug. 10:00 16:30 Sat 24th Aug 10:00 16:30
‘The Big Dig’ Archaeology in Action
The School of Irish Archaeology is coming to Navan; their replica ‘Viking House’ excavation is designed for children five to 12 years who will explore the Viking world through an archaeological dig. Come along and enjoy the next step in the evolution of creative and hands-on learning for the younger generation. Venue: St Mary’s Church, Navan (Trimgate streetside) Cost: Free Organiser: Clare Ryan / Navan & District Historical Society Website: www.sia.ie Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 11:00 16:00
EXHIBITIONS
St. Laurence Hotel, Navan
Display To help celebrate the restoration of this key building in Market Square, Navan there will be a display in the shop window of the former St. Laurence Hotel. Venue: St. Laurence Hotel, 22 Market Square, Navan Cost: Free Organiser: Leon Duffy Email: duffyleon1@gmail.com
Embroidered Cloths Exhibition
Embroidered Cloths is a collective exhibition of past-time art, which will showcase past and present embroidered items. Vintage embroidered linen will be displayed alongside modern embroidery samples. Venue: Kraft Kaffee, No.1 Ardfrail Court, Millbrook Road, Oldcastle Cost: Free Organiser: Kraft Kaffee Kreative Sewing Group Email: kraftkaffee@gmail.com Telephone: 049 8542645 Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 10:00 16:00 Tue 20th Aug. 10:00 17:00 Wed 21st Aug. 10:00 17:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 10:00 17:00 Sat 24th Aug. 10:00 16:00
Oldcastle Lives
Oldcastle Lives: an exhibition featuring some of the people and places of Oldcastle in times past. The exhibition takes place in shop windows in Oldcastle during Heritage Week 2019. Venue: Oldcastle Cost: Free Organiser: Sue Russell Email: oldcastlelives@gmail.com Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 07:00 23:45 Mon 19th Aug. 07:00 23:45 Tue 20th Aug. 07:00 23:45 Wed 21st Aug. 07:00 23:45 Thu 22nd Aug. 07:00 23:45 Fri 23rd Aug. 07:00 23:45 Sat 24th Aug. 07:00 23:45 Sun 25th Aug. 07:00 23:45
Past Times & Lives Navan 1865-1935
Stroll down memory lane and see images of Navan Town from around the turn of the 20th century. Canvases will be on display in shops, cafes and public houses along Trimgate Street, Navan. Venue: Trimgate Street, Navan. Organiser: Clare Ryan/Navan & District Historical Society Email: history@navanhistory.ie Telephone: 087 3070300 Website: www.navanhistory.ie Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 10:00 18:00 Sun 18th Aug. 10:00 18:00 Mon 19th Aug. 10:00 18:00 Tues 20th Aug. 10:00 18:00 Wed 21stAug. 10:00 18:00 Thurs 22nd Aug. 10:00 18:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 10:00 18:00 Sat 24th Aug. 10:00 18:00
Turas Columbanus Photo Display
Display of Turas Columbanus/Columban Way pilgrim & cultural route from Bunclody to Bangor & continental Europe. Images of Tara, Slane, Bective, Columban Way in France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. Venue: St. Columbans, Dalgan Park, Navan Organiser: Friends of St. Columbanus Cost: Free Email: turascolumbanus@gmail.com Telephone: 087 3481250 Website: www.thecolumbanway.eu Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 10:00 19:30 Mon 19th Aug. 10:00 13:00 Tue 20th Aug. 10:00 13:00 Wed 21st Aug. 10:00 13:00 Thu 22nd Aug. 10:00 13:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 10:00 13:00
Living History – The Way We Were
‘The Way We Were’ is an inter-generational living history project. The exhibitors (older volunteers) have dipped into their own childhoods to show us what life was like when they were younger. Venue: Third Age National Office, Summerhill Organiser: Third Age Cost: Adult: €3, Family: €7 Email: admin@thirdageireland.ie Telephone: 046 9557766 Website: www.thirdageireland.ie Date Start Time End Time Tue 20th Aug. 10:30 13:00
Bohermeen Scouts 1979 Remembered
Remembering the founding 40 years ago in 1979 of Bohermeen scouts; the night will involve a memorable photo gallery of the fun and activities over the years. Followed by the famous scouts “Sizzle Up”. Venue: Bohermeen Community Centre Cost: Free Organiser: St Ultans Historical Society Email: stephenball196@gmail.com Telephone: 086 0792580 Date Start Time End Time Fri 23rd Aug. 19:00 21:00
Traveller Living History Programme
Meath Travellers Workshop invites you to join us at our living history exhibition and to the launch of a DVD promoting this experience, giving you the opportunity to see inside our wonderful culture. Venue: Meath Travellers Workshop, Fairgreen, Navan Cost: Free Organiser: Meath Travellers Workshop Email: laura.travellerheritage@gmail.com Telephone: 046 9027801 Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 13:00 16:00
HISTORIC PROPERTY
Portraits Come Alive Tour
Journey throughout Slane castle as our 18th Century paintings come alive to give you a flavour of life in the 1800s. From Royalty, Romance, Conflict and Chambermaids, each has their own story to tell. Venue: Slane Castle, Slane Organiser: Slane Castle Cost: Adult: €14.00, Child: €7.20, Concession: €12.80 Email: tours@slanecastle.ie Telephone: 041 9884477 Website: www.slanecastle.ie Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 11:15 17:15 Sun 18th Aug. 11:15 17:15
OUTDOORS & ACTIVE
Free Guided Tours of Carnbane East
On top of the highest hills in Co Meath are some of its oldest and most impressive monuments. Come take a tour of the many monuments on the Hill. Venue: Cairn T, Loughcrew near Oldcastle Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 087 0524975 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/loughcrew/ Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 10:30 17:00 Sun 18th Aug. 10:30 17:00 Mon 19th Aug. 10:30 17:00 Tue 20th Aug. 10:30 17:00 Wed 21st Aug. 10:30 17:00 Thu 22nd Aug. 10:30 17:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 10:30 17:00 Sat 24th Aug. 10:30 17:00 Sun 25th Aug. 10:30 17:00
A Geological Extravaganza!
Join Dr Robbie Meehan for a talk on the Geology of the Loughcrew Hills. Learn where the Neolithic builders sourced the stones to build these wonderful monuments. Always a popular event! Venue: Cairn T, Loughcrew near Oldcastle Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Telephone: 087 0524975 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/loughcrew/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 15:00 16:00
How to Photograph a Monument
Con Brogan, Senior Photographer with the National Monuments Service for many years, shares some of his secrets. This is an outdoor event so dress for the weather. Please bring your own camera. Venue: Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, Donore, Drogheda Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 041 9880300 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/brunaboinnevisitorcentre/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 10:30 13:00
Step through Time in Trim
Stroll back in time to Trim’s historical past. Learn about the importance of the wonderful history of Trim from St. Patrick to present day. Venue: Trim Visitor Centre, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Trim Living History Admission: Adult: €2.00, Child: €1.00, Concession: €0, Family: €4.00 Email: trimvisitorcenter@eircom.net Telephone: 046 9437227 Date Start Time End Time Mon 19th Aug. 10:00 14:00 Tue 20th Aug. 10:00 14:00 Wed 21st Aug. 10:00 14:00 Thu 22nd Aug. 10:00 14:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 10:00 14:00
Experience Nature at Bee Wise
Bee Wise Nature Trail shows you the hidden heroes in our environment. A guided tour of our 5 acre woodland, learn about the small wonders (insects, butterflies, bees, etc) and their importance. Venue: Bee Wise Nature Trail, Kilmessan Organiser: Bee Wise Nature Trail Cost: Adult: €3.00, Child: €3.00 Email: info@beewise.ie Telephone: 086 3446791 Website: www.beewise.ie Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 10:30 12:30
Walking the Devenish Lands at Dowth
Dr Steve Davis, UCD School of Archaeology, will lead a two-hour walking tour of the Devenish Lands at Dowth, guiding you through 5,500 years of Ireland’s past. Venue: The Devenish Lands at Dowth Cost: Free Organiser: Devenish Email: heritageweek2019@devenish.com Website: www.devenishnutrition.com/ Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 11:00 13:00 Wed 21st Aug. 14:30 16:30
Bat Talk with Dr. Tina Aughney
This is your chance to learn about the amazing life and times of Irish bats from bat expert, Dr Tina Aughney. This short informal talk will be followed by a bat walk around Athboy. Venue: St James Hall Kitchen, Main St, Athboy Cost: Free Organiser: Athboy Tidy Towns Email: athboytidytowns@gmail.com Telephone: 086 8867455 Website: www.athboytidytowns.comathboy Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 20:00 22:30
Walk the Walls of Trim
A walk along the walls of the Medieval town of Trim led by Finola O’Carroll, Director of the Blackfriary Archaeology Field School. Venue: OPW HQ, Jonathan Swift St, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Telephone: 046 9426000 Website: www.heritageireland.ie Date Start Time End Time Thu 22nd Aug. 15:00 17:00
Meitheal Baile an Scorlógaigh
Scurlogstown is all about Community. A Meitheal gathers at the footbridge to Porchfield to pick blackberries; at 7 Arch Bridge, to pick crab apples/elderberries; and in the Community Garden at Jack Quinns to make jams. Venue: Scurlogstown at the Community Garden, the 7 Arch Bridge and Porchfield, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Meitheal Scurlogstown Admission: Adult: €10.00, Child: €0 Email: paulkerr.j@gmail.com Telephone: 087 6441182 Date Start Time End Time Sat 24th Aug. 10:00 14:00
Donore Historic Medieval Cemetery
It is a burial ground dating to the early medieval period and resting place of local notables including the artist William Reynolds and 1916 volunteer Patrick Dennany. Venue: Old Donore Cemetery, Drogheda Cost: Free Organiser: Old Donore Cemetery Committee Date Start Time End Time Sat 24th Aug. 14:00 16:00 Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 16:00
The Story of Honey in Kilmessan
Join us at Bee Wise Nature Trail to learn the story of honey from flower to jar in a guided tour of our 5 acre bee friendly woodland. Learn about the flowers and plants the bees work to produce honey. Venue: Bee Wise Nature Trail, Kilmessan Cost: Adult: €6.00, Child: €4.00, Family: €20.00 Organiser: Bee Wise Nature Trail Email: info@beewise.ie Telephone: 086 3446791 Website: www.beewise.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 17:00
Slane Past and Present
An historic walking tour of Slane Village. Venue: The Hub Tourist Office, Slane Village Cost: Free Organiser: Slane Tourism Email: visitslane@gmail.com Telephone: 041 9824000 Website: www.visitslane.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 11:00 17:00
Guided Walk along the Boyne Canal
Guided walk along the Oldbridge section. Historical highlights to include: restored Locks 1 & 2, former army pillboxes and obelisk remains, ending in the Battle of the Boyne grounds. Venue: Oldbridge Sealock, Oldbridge Cost: Free Organiser: Boyne Navigation – Inland Waterways Association Ireland Email: boyne@iwai.ie Telephone: 086 3854899 Website: www.boyne.iwai.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 13:00 17:00
Heritage TypeTrail Kells
TypeTrail presents a walking tour of heritage lettering on the streets of Kells Type walks are a unique opportunity to look at our cities & towns through a typographic lens, learn about the languages and scripts in our public spaces, and appreciate the work of local sign-markers. As we spot letters on gravestones, manholes, dates on buildings, builder’s marks, of which there is much en-route. This walk concentrates on examples of public lettering, the kind of lettering we often overlook or simply are oblivious to as we’ve walked by them so many times & we simply take it for granted. Much of the pleasure of this kind of walk is finding things yourself! Venue: Meet at Kells Courthouse Cost: Free Organiser: Kells Typetrail Email: kellstypetrail@facebook.com Telephone: 087 7829971 Website: www.boyne.iwai.ie Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 17:00 18:00
The Orchard Residents Association
Guided Tour of Bee Wise Nature
Trail Join this fascinating event celebrating Heritage Week, informing us about Irish pollinators and showing us how to improve and manage our own open spaces for the benefit of pollinators. The Bee Wise Nature Trail (www.beewise.ie, Bee-Wise on Facebook) comprises five acres of young woodland, flowering & fruiting hedgerows, areas of wild flowers, and a large area of garden plants, all selected to encourage wildlife including bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. A 1.5 km path meanders through the 5-acre site with information points and fun facts about wildlife. Talks and a demonstration on bee hotels by the owner, Paddy Gorman, take place in the education centre prior to guided walks around the trail. There is also an opportunity to see, through an Observation Hive, the fascinating life of the Honey Bee. Everything is suitable for both adults and children. Venue: Bee Wise Nature Trail, Kilmessan Cost: Adult: €6.00, Child: €4.00 Organiser: The Orchard Residents Association Email: eflanagan84@gmail.com Telephone: 087 9779660 Date Start Time End Time Mon 19th Aug. 14:00 17:00
FAMILY FUN
Medieval Family Day
Join us at the Blackfriary Archaeology Site for a Family Fun Day! Tours of the medieval excavation and artifacts from the site include a mock dig for Kids, traditional crafts and a puppeteer show. Venue: Blackfriary Archaeology Site, Griffin Park, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Blackfriary Community Heritage and Archaeology Project Email: info@bafs.ie Telephone: 085 7563671 Website: www.bafs.ie Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 13:00 17:00
Display of Falcons, Hawks and Owls
Come and admire these wonderful birds up close! Venue: Hill of Tara Visitor Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: hilloftara@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9025903 Website: www.heritageireland.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 12:30 16:00
Let’s Help Mother Earth
Learn how to create bee nesting habitats using pots, plant native ferns in our mini woodland area, put up bird boxes, and learn all about our pond and invasive aquatic plants. Venue: Julianstown Village Garden Cost: Free Organiser: Julianstown & District Community Association Email: julianstowndca@gmail.com Telephone: 086 3991813 Website: www.julianstowncommunity.com Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 11:00 13:00
Medieval Armoury at Trim Castle
A talk and a brilliant display of medieval armoury by Danny Denman from the Trim Living History Group. Venue: Trim Castle, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: trimcastle@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9438619 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/midlands-eastcoast/trimcastle/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 14:00 16:00 Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 16:00
Candlelit Tales – Fionn & the Fianna
Candlelit Tales presents Fionn and the Fianna – a lively, fun, interactive storytelling and music show, designed for children. Venue: Ashbourne Library Cost: Free Organiser: Meath County Council Library Service Email: ashbournelib@meathcoco.ie Telephone: 01 8358185 Website: www.meathlibraries.ie Date Start Time End Time Thu 22nd Aug. 12:00 13:00
Pulse of Nature at Girley Bog Wildlife safari with pond dipping, frog search and butterfly counting. Refreshments and visitor guide provided. Venue: Causey Farm, Fordstown, Co. Meath Cost: Free Organiser: Irish Peatland Conservation Council Email: bogs@ipcc.ie Telephone: 045 860133 Website: www.ipcc.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 14:00 16:30
How to be a Wildlife Detective
Learn about what kinds of wild animals live on the Hill of Tara and look for their tracks and trails. Venue: Hill of Tara Visitor Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: hilloftara@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9025903 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/hilloftara/ Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 14:00 15:30
St. Laurence Hotel Meet and Greet To help celebrate the restoration of this key building we will be opening up the Ground floor of The St. Laurence Hotel (Central Hotel aka Crinion’s) to the public for a meet and greet. Recall and share stories from the past! Venue: St. Laurence Hotel, 22 Market Square, Navan Cost: Free Organiser: Leon Duffy Email: duffyleon1@gmail.com Telephone: 086 3889097 Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 14:00 17:00 Sun 18th Aug. 14:00 17:00 Sat 24th Aug. 14:00 17:00 Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 17:00
Illuminations at the St. Laurence Hotel
Watch the windows illuminate in an array of colours bringing some life back to this old vacant property. Illuminations will start every evening from 8 pm until midnight. Venue: St. Laurence Hotel, 22 Market Square, Navan Cost: Free Organiser: Leon Duffy Email: duffyleon1@gmail.com Telephone: 086 3889097 Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 20:00 24:00 Sun 18th Aug. 20:00 24:00 Mon 19th Aug. 20:00 24:00 Tue 20th Aug. 20:00 24:00 Wed 21st Aug. 20:00 24:00 Thu 22nd Aug. 20:00 24:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 20:00 24:00 Sat 24th Aug. 20:00 24:00 Sun 25th Aug. 20:00 24:00
Meet the Flint Knapper!
Dr Bernard Gilhooly (UCD) will give a flint knapping and stoneworking demonstration, highlighting the range of methods that prehistoric Irish people used to manufacture stone tools and objects. Venue: Cairn T, Loughcrew near Oldcastle Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 087 0524975 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/loughcrew/ Date Start Time End Time Sat 24th Aug. 14:00 16:00
Moynalty Heritage Festival A collection of historical events in the historic & picturesque village of Moynalty in the heartland of North County Meath including talks on local heritage sites and a re-creation of old past times. Venue: Moynalty Village Cost: Free Organiser: Moynalty Community Council Email: moynaltycoco@gmail.com Telephone: 086 2357879 Date Start Time End Time Fri 23rd Aug. 18:30 21:00
Ashbourne Family Fun Day Water Day along the river in Ashbourne
Join us for Ashbourne Family Fun Day. Help us with the construction of a bug hotel; enjoy a river walk and talk and a litter pick along the way.
Venue: meet at High Street, Ashbourne Cost: Free Organiser: Ashbourne Tidy Towns Email: alan.tobin@members.meathcoco.ie Telephone: 087 6117669 Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 12:00 13:00
PERFORMANCE OR RE-ENACTMENT
Music at the Mound
The Four Corners Céilí Band perform at Knowth. There is also an opportunity to explore this wonderful monument, part of the World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne, famous for its megalithic art. Venue: Knowth National Monument Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works and Drogheda Fleadh Cheoil Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 041 9880300 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/brunaboinnevisitorcentre/ Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 18:45 21:30
17th Century Living History
Be transported back to the time of the Battle of the Boyne and learn all about the Baroque horses and the training of a cavalry trooper. Venue: Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre Cost: Free Organiser: The Office of Public Works Email: battleoftheboyne@opw.ie Telephone: 041 9809950 Website: battleoftheboyne.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 11:00 16:00
Taiko Drummers at Newgrange
East meets West at the Mound of the Rising Sun! Traditional Japanese Taiko Drummers will perform outside Newgrange. Venue: Newgrange via Brú na Bóinne Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works and Meath County Council Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 041 9880300 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/brunaboinnevisitorcentre/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 16:00 19:15
Collier the Robber
A Julianstown Man Michael Collier was born in Julianstown, Co Meath. On this, the 170th anniversary of his death, Julianstown Drama group bring to life the story of how this highwayman became a legend in his own right. Venue: Sonairte, The Ninch, Laytown Cost: Free Organiser: Julianstown Drama Group Email: Julianstowncc@gmail.com Telephone: 041 9827572 Date Start Time End Time Sat 24th Aug. 16:00 19:00
Feis Teamhra; A Turn for Tara
Grammy Award Winner Susan McKeown and Pulitzer Prize Winner Paul Muldoon celebrate Tara in music & words. This year’s special guests include Novelist Glenn Patterson and Poet Eamon Grennan. Venue: Hill of Tara Visitor Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works and Poetry Ireland Email: hilloftara@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9025903 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/midlands-eastcoast/hilloftara/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 15:00 17:00
Trim Brass Band at Trim Castle
Enjoy a medley of great tunes, old and new, from our local Brass Band! This event is outdoors so dress for the weather. Venue: Trim Castle, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: trimcastle@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9438619 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/trimcastle/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 16:00
Oíche Oidhreachta sa nGhaeltacht
Oíche oidhreachta i Ráth Chairn le ceol, amhránaíocht , damhsa, scéalaíocht agus taispeántas ealaíne. A night of music, song, dance, storytelling and an art display in Ráth Chairn. Bígí linn i Ráth Chairn, áit a gcuirfear oíche cheoil den scoth in bhur láthair le togha agus rogha na gceoltóirí agus na n-amhránaithe. Join us in Ráth Chairn for a night of music, song and dance. Venue: An Bradán Feasa, Ráth Chairn. Eircode: C15 E8FT Cost: Free Organiser: Coiste Oidhreachta Ghaeltacht Ráth Chairn Email: maireadeanai@hotmail.com Telephone: 087 0549929 Date Start Time End Time Fri 23rd Aug. 20:00 22:30
TALKS
The Moores of Fordstown
This talk and exhibition remembers the famous siblings from Fordstown, who made it big in Hollywood during the silent movie days. Venue: Girley Hall near Fordstown, C15 PV21 Cost: Free Organiser: Stephen Ball Email: stephenball196@gmail.com Telephone: 086 0792580 Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 13:00 16:00
A History of Girley Bog
This talk provides a history of Girley Bog using maps, oral history, and archives to show the impact of historical events in transforming the landscape and the changes in how we value peatlands today. Venue: Kells Courthouse Cost: Free Organiser: Girley Bog Meitheal Email: girleybogmeitheal@gmail.com Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 11:00 12:00
Coat of Arms and Turncoat Sons
A 40-minute presentation by Aine Kelly Bonnefoy followed by a discussion. Learn about the strange peregrinations of the sons of Geoffrey and Matilda de Geneville, Lord and Lady of Trim Castle. Venue: OPW HQ, Jonathan Swift St, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works and Meath County Council Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9426000 Website: www.heritageireland.ie Date Start Time End Time Tue 20th Aug. 16:00 17:00
Beneath the Soil at Brú na Bóinne
In the last three years surveys have continued which demonstrate the international significance of Brú na Bóinne. The event takes place in the redeveloped Knowth House, with grateful thanks to the OPW. Venue: Knowth House, Brú na Bóinne Cost: Free Organiser: Dr Steve Davis, UCD School of Archaeology Email: stephen.davis@ucd.ie Telephone: 01 7168534 Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 19:00 20:30
Allenstown Graveyard Visitation
The St Ultans Historical Society will visit the old Allenstown graveyard to officially unveil the memorial monument recently erected by the society. There will also be a brief talk about the graveyard’s history. Venue: Allenstown Graveyard, Bohermeen Cost: Free Organiser: St Ultans Historical Society Email: stephenball196@gmail.com Telephone: 086 0792580 Date Start Time End Time Thu 22nd Aug. 19:00 20:00
Reeling in the Years
A discussion of old photographs of the Drumconrath area and to record participants’ thoughts and experiences associated with same. Attendance limited to 40 persons to facilitate good discussion. Venue: Drumconrath Parish Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Drumconrath Cultural and Heritage Society Email: larryandattracta@gmail.com Telephone: 041 6854161 Date Start Time End Time Thu 22nd Aug. 19:30 21:30
Landscape, Ritual & Legend
A Talk The Passage tombs of Loughcrew: Landscape, Ritual and Legend – a talk by Dr. Lynda McCormack. Find out more about these fascinating monuments. Venue: Cairn T, Loughcrew, Near Oldcastle Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 087 0524975 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/midlands-eastcoast/loughcrew/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 15:00 16:00
The Inaugural Kate Kennedy Lecture
This lecture will tell the story of County Meath woman Kate Kennedy who made history in San Francisco California by becoming the first woman in the World to achieve equal pay for equal work. Plans are underway to unveil a sculpture in Duleek to honour Kate Kennedy and her contribution to the global quest for equal pay. Venue: Duleek Courthouse/Heritage Centre, Duleek Cost: Free Organiser: Kate Kennedy Memorial Committee Email: ken.news@gmail.com Telephone: 086 2794536 Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 15:00 16:00
Slane 1800 to 1830
A presentation and allied exhibition of the research of the Conyngham papers in the National Library of Ireland relating to their Slane properties and tenants covering the period 1800 to 1830. Database of names and property occupied. Historic maps. Townland based lists of Conyngham tenants and Tithe Applotment tenants. Vignettes of life in the period including visit of King George IV in 1821. Venue: Conyngham Arms Hotel, Slane Cost: Free Organiser: Slane History and Archaeology Society Email: slanehistoryandarchaeologysociety.com Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 15:00 16:30
Cricket in Meath 1900-1930
Jim Gilligan looks at the popularity of cricket in Meath prior to the emergence of the GAA, in a talk entitled ‘Too Long has the Saxon Cricket Held Sway’ - Cricket in Meath 1900-1930. Venue: Horace Plunkett Hall, Dunsany Cost: Free Organiser: Horace Plunkett ICA Guild Dunsany Email: donohoejd@gmail.com Telephone: 046 9079655 Date Start Time End Time Wed 21st Aug. 20:00 21:00
TOURS
Paddle the Boyne Canal in a Currach
Guided boat tour on the newly restored Boyne Canal Navigation – using traditional Irish currachs that have featured in Game of Thrones. All proceeds go towards the Boyne Navigation restoration. Venue: Sealock, Boyne Canal Navigation, Battle of the Boyne, Oldbridge Cost: Adult: €10.00, Child: €10.00 Organiser: Boyne Boats Ltd. Email: info@boyneboats.ie Telephone: 086 3616420 Website: www.boyneboats.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 11:00 17:00
Hill of Slane
Free Tours The story of St. Patrick and the first Pascal Fire, St. Erc’s Monastery and the first round tower in Ireland, the first Slane Castle! Meet our local guides: There’s much more here than meets the eye! Venue: Hill of Slane Car Park Cost: Free Organiser: Hill of Slane Tour Guides Email: hillofslanetours@yahoo.com Telephone: 041 9824000 Website: www.hillofslane.wordpress.com Date Start Time End Time Sat 17th Aug. 14:00 15:00 Sun 18th Aug. 14:00 15:00 Mon 19th Aug. 14:00 15:00 Tue 20th Aug. 14:00 15:00 Wed 21st Aug. 14:00 15:00 Thu 22nd Aug. 14:00 15:00 Fri 23rd Aug. 14:00 15:00 Sat 24th Aug. 14:00 15:00 Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 15:00
Hill of Tara
Free Guided Tours and AV Show Enjoy Free Guided tours of the Hill of Tara, the Ancient Capital of Ireland. Free admission also to the Audio Visual Show: Tara, A Royal Sanctuary. Venue: Hill of Tara Visitor Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: hilloftara@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9025903 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/hilloftara/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 10:00 17:00 Sun 25th Aug. 10:00 14:00
Free Guided Tours of Trim Castle Join a tour of the Keep which brings you to the top of the Tower. Hear all about the long and exciting story of the largest Anglo-Norman Castle in Ireland. Venue: Trim Castle, Trim Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: trimcastle@opw.ie Telephone: 046 9438619 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/ midlands-eastcoast/trimcastle/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 18th Aug. 10:00 16:00 Sun 25th Aug. 10:00 16:00
The Old St. Pats, Navan
This is a photographic display, short film and visit to the iconic listed building which was the St. Finian’s Study Hall, later the Old St. Pat’s. Curated by Vincent Mulvany (N&DHS). Venue: Navan Library Cost: Free Organiser: Navan & District Historical Society Email: vmulvany@gmail.com Telephone: 087 7930209 Website: www.navanhistory.ie Date Start Time End Time Tue 20th Aug. 15:00 18:00 Thu 22nd Aug. 15:00 18:00
Victorian Living History
Tour Step back in time on a tour of the Victorian basement of Oldbridge House, and see how the servants worked below stairs. Venue: Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre Cost: Free Organiser: The Office of Public Works Email: battleoftheboyne@opw.ie Telephone: 041 9809950 Website: www.battleoftheboyne.ie Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 12:00 12:45 Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 14:45
WORKSHOPS
Boyne Currach Centre
Open Day Come join us for our Open Day learn about the history and making of our Boyne Currach, help carve a paddle, take a trip in a Boyne Currach on the Canal. Many other boats to see also. All Welcome! Venue: Boyne Currach Centre Cost: Free Organiser: Boyne Currach Heritage Group Email: boynecurrach@gmail.com Telephone: 086 3577002 Website: www.boynecurrach.com Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 11:00 16:30
Ogham Workshop at Knowth
Did you know that ogham inscriptions are found in both the Eastern and Western tombs at Knowth? Have a go at writing in the ogham script on our 3D blackboard. Venue: Knowth National Monument via Brú na Bóinne Centre, Donore, Drogheda Cost: Free Organiser: Office of Public Works Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie Telephone: 041 9880300 Website: www.heritageireland.ie/en/midlands-eastcoast/brunaboinnevisitorcentre/ Date Start Time End Time Sun 25th Aug. 14:00 16:00