Free Admission to Heritage Sites Saturday August 15th as National Heritage Week Begins

People across the country will be able to visit more than 50 OPW heritage sites for free on Saturday, August 15th, to mark the opening of National Heritage Week 2026.

This year’s theme is ‘Heritage at Risk’, highlighting the importance of protecting historic buildings, traditions, landscapes and other aspects of Ireland’s heritage that may be vulnerable.

Among the sites taking part in County Wexford is Ferns Castle, which will host a traditional craft fair on Saturday.

The event will showcase Irish traditional crafts and the skills involved in keeping these practices alive for future generations.

The OPW is also running a wider programme of events throughout Heritage Week, including workshops, archaeological talks, demonstrations, guided tours and storytelling events at heritage sites around the country.

National Heritage Week runs from August 15th to 23rd, with activities aimed at encouraging people to discover the history and heritage in their own communities.

Free admission will apply to participating OPW fee-paying heritage sites on Saturday, August 15th.

A full list of events and participating locations is available through the Heritage Ireland website.