Embrace your inner ‘wild child’ for Heritage Week in Clare

THE people of Clare are being urged to embrace their inner Wild Child as part of National Heritage Week this August. Woodland fun, entry to historic sites, open houses and nature outings are just some of the events which have already been lined up in Clare for the annual event.

Organisers of events in County Clare are being encouraged to consider sustainable heritage and biodiversity when planning in-person events and digital projects for National Heritage Week 2022, which will take place throughout Clare from August 13 to 21.

Details of in-person events and digital projects are now being accepted from individuals, community groups and organisations across County Clare, with sustainability and biodiversity this year’s themes.

The heritage projects or ideas are up to organisers, regardless of how small or big the event. All projects submitted will be considered for seven different Heritage Week Awards. An emphasis has been placed on hosting events which are inclusive and involve all the community, including new residents, and cater for accessibility needs.

Clare County Council has confirmed that plans so far include open house events, nature outings and videos, awareness of our wetlands and their ecosystem services, and events in relation to archaeology and Heritage Keepers programme, for example.

Office of Public Works sites have free entry on Saturday, August 13. ‘Wild Child Day’ takes place on Saturday, August 20 catering to families on holidays at this time of the year. Water Heritage Day is on Sunday, August 21.

Heritage Week provides an opportunity to showcase local heritage places and share projects that are happening in your community. It’s a chance to learn something new or share a skill, make connections within the community, and raise the profile of the local area and promote the local heritage.

In-person events may consist of walking tours, lectures, film screenings, exhibitions, craft workshops or other interactive activities. Digital project formats may vary from online talks or exhibitions to videos, podcasts, presentations or blogs, a dedicated website or social media account.

Holding intergenerational craft demonstrations, connecting with local traditional skills, looking at sustainable reuse of materials, and conservation of old buildings are just some of the ideas proposed.

Help to address the biodiversity emergency and climate change by building resilience in the community, show your efforts to manage areas for nature, the birds, and the bees, raising awareness of the local wetland or woodland or the local farmland and green spaces.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Councillor Tony O’Brien, who is delighted to support the events, said, “This year, I hope that the Clare community groups and heritage organisations get involved, as well as those who are new to Ireland’s varied heritage.”

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive, Clare County Council, is also encouraging everyone with an interest or expertise in any aspect of our heritage to consider putting together and submitting a project for Heritage Week this year.

The Heritage Council has developed a suite of resources and guidelines to support projects, all of which are available on www.heritageweek.ie.

Participation in National Heritage Week is open to individuals, families, communities and organisations. New and experienced heritage enthusiasts alike are encouraged to get involved.