Step into the past at Bunratty Castle during Heritage Week

THE CULTURAL, built and natural heritage of Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and county Clare will be celebrated during Heritage Week 2023. 

‘Living Heritage’ is the theme of this year's programme of events during which members of the public will be invited to the popular visitor attractions of Bunratty to explore the traditions and practices, knowledge and skills passed down through generations. 

Heritage Week 2023 will be celebrated across county Clare and Ireland from August 12 - 20.

At Bunratty, the 2023 Summer Carnival on August 12-13 will feature old style carnival and traditional novelty games like smash a can, coconut shy and giant checkers, as well as train rides through the Folk Park.

Animators will showcase life in times past through storytelling and roleplaying as visitors learn about life as a doctor in early 20th century Ireland, a Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) Policeman, a musician in the 1900s and as a blacksmith.

There will be a traditional thatching demonstration, woodworking with TikTok sensation Eoin Reardon, talks on animal husbandry, Sean Nós singing, step dancing, a tour of the 19th century Bunratty House, and an introduction to the Regency Plant Collection at the Victorian Walled Garden.

Cllr. Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, commented, "The Heritage Council first began coordinating the week in 2005 and since then it has gone from strength to strength with over 1000 events and projects organised across the country each year. The initiative serves as a reminder to the people of Clare of the wonderful heritage and history that surrounds them."

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"The events at Craggaunowen and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park are always a highlight as they allow visitors to step back in time to sample the old crafts and traditions that were once present in every Irish town and village," Cllr Cooney continued.

"Heritage Week offers us an ideal opportunity to invite people sample what it would have been like living in Ireland down through the centuries," commented Adrienne O’Flynn, Sales and Marketing Manager for Clare Tourism East.