Cork is set to come alive with history, culture, and community spirit during National Heritage Week 2026, taking place from 15-23 August. With close to 200 events and activities across Cork there is plenty to discover, from historic buildings and walking tours to traditional crafts, local stories and Ireland’s natural heritage.
This year’s theme is Heritage at Risk, encouraging people to look beyond the heritage we celebrate today and consider what could be lost tomorrow. The theme highlights the pressures facing historic buildings, landscapes, traditions, languages, crafts, and other aspects of Ireland’s cultural heritage, while also asking what communities can do to protect them.
Cork Through the Ages, an Introduction to the Historical Development of Cork City
This historical walking tour led by Cllr. Kieran McCarthy will offer you an opportunity to see familiar parts of the city from a historical perspective and discover stories than can easily be forgotten in modern-day life.
When: Sunday 16th August at 6:30pm
Where: Starting at National Monument on Grand Parade
Cost: Free of charge, no need to book
Bug Walk and Talk
Perfect for any kid who loves creepy-crawlies, this walk in Ballincollig Regional Park will teach you about the different insects that live in your locality. Learn how to catch insects like butterflies and examine bumble bees.
When: Saturday 22nd August at 2pm
Where: Bicycle Stand, Ballincollig Regional Park
Cost: Free, no need to book
St Fin Barre’s Cathedral Open Day
This stunning Cork monument will open its doors to visitors, and provide guided tours at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm. The public are encouraged to explore the cathedral, learn about it’s history, and even enjoy a picnic on site.
When: Saturday 15th August from 9am-5pm
Where: St Fin Barre’s Cathedral
Cost: Free, no need to book
Discover 400 Years at Elizabeth Fort
For anyone interested in Cork’s military history, this is a particularly appealing event exploring the long history in one of Cork’s most recognisable fortifications. Guided tours at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm.
When: Saturday 15th August 11am-3pm
Where: Elizabeth Fort, Barrack Street
Cost: Free, please book guided tours in advance
Meet Nano Nagle With Judie Chalmers
Transport yourself back in time as you see Nano Nagle’s story brought to life. Hear about her life story from Nano herself. Why not try the self guided tour in the Nano Nagle museum after the show?
When: Wednesday 19th August 1pm-2pm
Where: Nano’s Parlour, Nano Nagle Place
Cost: Free, €5 for self-guided tours
Ghoulish Gaols and Ghostly Castles
This spooky presentation is great for any young history fanatics who want to know the ins and outs of Cork’s spookiest locations.
When: Saturday 15th August 2:30pm-3:30pm
Where: Children’s and Young People’s Library, The City Library
Cost: Free, no need to book
Medieval Day at Cork Public Museum
Transport yourself back in time with this medieval themed event. Engaging for the whole family, dress up, hear stories, and try the Dig & Discover boxes to learn like an archaeologist.
When: Saturday 15th August 11am-4pm
Where: Cork Public Museum, Fitzgeralds Park
Cost: Free, no need to book
Sustainable Toys – Making Dúchas Dolls
This interactive toy-making workshop is a fantastic way to engage with history, and protect the future. Learn to make yarn dolls and peg dolls, while hearing about how they were made almost 100 years ago.
When: Wednesday 19th August 2pm-3:13pm
Where: The Musgrave Theatre, The Firkin Crane
Cost: Free, no need to book
Heritage at risk asks us not only to look backwards, but to think about the future. By attending events, listening to local stories, learning traditional skills, and visiting historic places, communities can play a part in keeping their heritage alive.
For the full lineup of National Heritage Week events, see here.
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