From wakes to willow weaving - Laois reimagines the past for Heritage Week

Over 70 events were hosted across the county to mark National Heritage Week

Published 23rd Aug 2026, 18:00 BST Singer Erin Dollard with Siobhán Maguire and members of Pedal Vintage Durrow and Abbeyleix Vitality Hub at the Bealach Sessions at the Donaghmore Workhouse and Agricultural Museum during Heritage Week. Photo: Julie Harvey. Over 70 events were hosted across the county to mark National Heritage Week A brilliant schedule of events were organised across Laois to celebrate National Heritage Week which took place from Saturday, August 14 to Sunday, August 23.

The theme for this year’s National Heritage Week was ‘Heritage at Risk’ and focused on encouraging people to explore the built, natural and cultural aspects of our heritage that are endangered. Members of the public were invited to reimagine and revive these sites, artefacts and practices.

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Over 70 events were organised across the county to celebrate the week, ranging from walks through Laois’ bog and woodlands, children’s history shows and willow weaving, as well as tours and talks about some of the county’s fascinating cultural sites and traditions.

An interesting lecture on the origins of Ireland’s unique wakes and funeral practices was delivered by ethnomusicologist Ann Moylan at Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum. The ‘Ancient Irish Wakes: The Merry Wake, Keening and the Art of Crying’ event drew in a big crowd on Sunday, August 14.

Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum was also the venue for the Bealach Sessions. This musical event was hosted by Pedal Vintage and Rothar Rogues and featured music from Erin Dollard and Siobhán Maguire.

As well as music and history, there were lots of events which highlighted the importance of craftsmanship in our heritage. One such event was held at McKeon Stone in Stradbally where classical stone sculptor and artist Benedict Byrne delivered a great talk and demonstration on stone sculpture.

Major upgrades to wastewater and sewer system planned in Laois town Many of Laois’ beautiful historical and cultural landmarks were also on full display for Heritage Week. People enjoyed a tour of the private Aghaboe Grange Gardens, Ballintubbert House's Organic Gardens, the Franciscan Abbey in Stradbally, Mountmellick Masonic Lodge, Emo Court and lots more.

There were also plenty of events which allowed children to explore Laois’ heritage. Some of these events included a Children's Willow Weaving Workshop at the Dunamaise Arts Centre, Heritage Steam & Diesel Trains at the Stradbally Woodland Railway, and a hands-on workshop on Vikings in Ireland at Portarlington and Portlaoise Library.

Commenting on the importance of the week, Heritage Officer at Laois County Council, Thomas Carolan said: “As Heritage Officer for Laois County Council it is a pleasure to work with community groups to organise events for Heritage Week each year. It is always fascinating to see the variety and creativity of the events from local groups and organisations in Laois for Heritage Week.

“I believe that Heritage Week is a truly unique opportunity for people to learn and experience something new about the built, natural, or cultural heritage in their area.

“I also want to acknowledge that Heritage Week is only made possible by the voluntary work of the event organisers. Whether it’s a history talk, farm walk, or craft exhibition, it takes time and effort to prepare and organise these events, so I’d like to thank all those in Laois who have organised events in 2026.”