Experience Heritage Week in Naas, County Kildare with Lawlor’s Hotel

Lawlor’s of Naas invites everyone to come and experience Heritage Week in Naas.

According to a spokesperson for the hotel, Lawlor’s of Naas invites everyone to come and experience Heritage Week in Naas this year with unbeatable deals and a variety of activities for all (mostly) free.

They said: "National Heritage Week, an initiative by the Heritage Council, celebrates the rich tapestry of our heritage.

"This annual event unites communities, families, organisations, cultural institutions, academics, and enthusiasts, fostering a collective appreciation for heritage and supporting its conservation. 

"Spanning nine days from August 12 to August 25, 2024, this year’s Heritage Week includes Wild Child Day and Water Heritage Day.

"With the theme 'Connections, Routes & Networks,' the event promises a diverse array of activities that highlight the intricate links within our shared history." 

The spokesperson added: "To celebrate, Lawlor’s have created The Lawlor’s of Naas Guide to Heritage Week in Kildare a selection of must-attend events for the week, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

"Dive in and discover the heritage wonders awaiting you!" 

The list of events can be viewed below.

Art Treasure Hunt, Kildare town Heritage Centre – August 17 2024, 10am to 5pm   

Explore the historic town of Kildare through a captivating series of artworks and artefacts.

Visitors will receive a map with clues guiding them to the locations of the art pieces, immersing them in the rich heritage of Kildare in an engaging manner. 

The event will also run from 19th to 22nd August 2024, from 10am to 5pm, August 24, from 10am to 5pm, and August 25 from 2pm to 5pm.

To book, contact Kildare Town Heritage Centre (045 530672, info@kildareheritage.com).   

Open Day at The Wonderful Barn – August 18 2024, 12pm to 5pm at Wonderful Barn, Leixlip 

Join the Wonderful Barn Open Day and uncover the fascinating history of this remarkable Kildare heritage site through guided tours and informative talks. 

For more information contact Anthony (087 2128837, arkinanto@gmail.com).   

If Maps Could Speak - August  19, 2024, 8pm to 9pm at Kill Parish Meeting Room 

This insightful talk by the former Director of Ordnance Survey Ireland will explore the pioneering work of early Irish map makers. 

For more information, contact Kill History Group (087 3513328, brianfrancis.mccabe@gmail.com) . 

Gardening for Biodiversity and Lullymore West Butterfly Walk - August 20 2024, 10am to 1pm at Bog of Allen Nature Centre 

Enjoy a guided tour of peat-free gardens followed by a walk to Lullymore West Bog, home to IPCC’s butterfly reserve. 

For further information contact the Irish Peatland Conservation Council (045 860133, bogs@ipcc.ie).   

'Painting with Paper' Collage and Mixed Media Workshop - August 20 2024, 2pm to 3pm at Naas Library 

Join artist Liza Kavanagh for a delightful session of creating streetscape pictures using various papers and fabrics. 

Suitable for ages 7-10 years.

For more information, contact Naas Library (045 980795, naaslib@kildarecoco.ie). 

Tutty’s Shoemakers on HANDS RTÉ Award-Winning Series - August 21 2024, 6pm to 7.30pm at Naas Library 

Join this special Heritage Week screening of the Hands documentary episode featuring Tutty’s Shoemakers of Naas. 
Booking required.

For more information and to book, contact Naas Library (045 980795, naaslib@kildarecoco.ie).   

The Steam Museum & Lodge Park Walled Garden - August 22, 2024, 1pm to 5pm in Straffan 

Explore a collection of model locomotives and stationary engines, as well as an 18th-century walled garden. 

Open August 17 to August 25.

For more information, contact The Steam Museum & Lodge Park Walled Garden (083 0168338, info@steam-musuem.ie).   

Larry Stanley - A Sporting Life - August 22, 2024, 7pm to 8pm at Naas Library 

Learn about the legacy of one of Kildare's sporting greats, Laurence 'Larry' Stanley, in this engaging talk. 

For further information, contact Caragh Local History Group or Caragh Tidy Towns (0877766425, caraghtidytowns@gmail.com).    

PLAY - An Immersive Experience at The Moat Theatre - August 23, 2024, various times at Moat Theatre, Naas 
Experience an intimate journey through the hidden spaces of The Moat Theatre, intertwining Shakespeare’s Hamlet with the building’s history. 

Also running August 20 to August 22 from 7pm to 8.15pm and 9pm to 10.15pm.

For more information, contact Darn Skippy Productions (045883030, darnskippyproductions@gmail.com) or book at www.moattheatre.com.   

Forest School Wild Child Day - August 24, 2024 at Donadea 

A day in the wild for children aged 5-13 years old, encouraging them to connect with naturethrough child-led play. 

Group 1: Age range: 5–8-year-olds, time: 10pm - 12pm.

Group 2: Age range: 8-12/13-year-olds, time: 1pm - 3pm. 

For more information, contact Lucy at Growing Wild (lucy@growingwild.ie) or book at growingwild.ie.   

Milltown Canal Festival - August 25, 2024, 12pm to 5pm at Milltown Canal 
Revive the historic journey with boat trips from Milltown to the renowned Fen, along with family fun activities. 

For more information contact Milltown Tidy Towns (087 2321143, milltowntidytowns@outlook.com).   

FURTHER INFORMATION

A spokesperson for Lawlor's Hotel also said: "After immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Kildare, Lawlor’s of Naas is the perfect place to relax and reflect.

"Enjoy afternoon tea in our lobby, discuss your day’s adventures over dinner at Vi’s, or unwind with cocktails at Vi’s. 

"Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by contacting dining@lawlors.ie or calling 045 906 444.

"Bookings can also be made online at www.lawlors.ie. "

The spokesperson added: "Overnight packages available from €200 including breakfast for two people sharing."