Culture Night - Uncover Ireland’s Culture and History at OPW Heritage Sites across the Country

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to announce a series of events at OPW Heritage Sites across the country to mark Culture Night. Organised by the Arts Council, Culture Night celebrates Ireland’s diverse and rich heritage, bringing communities together to be celebrated nationwide in villages, towns and cities.

This year, Culture Night aims to be even more inclusive and accessible while showcasing Ireland’s creativity, innovation and heritage. The Office of Public Works will once again be involved in an evening of experiences and entertainment at a number of our historical heritage sites on Friday, 19 September.

Culture Night encourages people to engage in a night of celebration, through music, performances, tours, talks, and more. A number of OPW heritage attractions will open late to the public on the evening of 19 September, allowing visitors to experience Ireland’s history through a variety of events and to enjoy the sites through a new lens.

Rosemary Collier, Head of Heritage Services & Capital Works Delivery, said:

“It is fantastic to see such a wide variety of events taking place across the country this Culture Night. A number of OPW Heritage sites will stay open late to allow visitors experience Ireland’s history through these free events. From twilight tours at Charles Fort Military Fortress to live traditional music performances at Parke’s Castle, there are numerous offerings taking place allowing visitors to explore and engage with our shared heritage”

Discover the life and legacy of Daniel O’Connell with free tours at Derrynane House, Co. Kerry for Culture Night.

Explore the history and architecture of Boyle Abbey, Co. Roscommon on the unique tour that focuses on the work of a thirteenth century stonemason – ‘The Ballintubber Master’.

Step into the enchanting Long Gallery at Ormond Castle, Co. Tipperary, for “An Evening of Vignettes,” an exhilarating innovative performance by local artists.

At Ennis Friary, Co. Clare, learn about the master stonemasons and of their unique works of art. Drawing from Celtic traditions, Medieval influences and English artistic styles, they crafted a unique expression of Franciscan devotion into our local limestone.

Uncover the turbulent history of The Custom House, Dublin. Learn all about the architecture and the historical events related to the building from our expert tour guides who will be stationed at different sections of the free self-guided exhibition.

Or why not join our knowledgeable guides for a tour of the Casino Marino, Dublin where you can learn about the unique design and history of this hidden treasure.

For more information about the events, please visit www.culturenight.ie and www.heritageireland.ie

OPW spokespersons are available for interview upon request. Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.

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The Office of Public Works (OPW)

The OPW cares for 780 heritage sites, including national monuments, historic parks, gardens and buildings. It is the Government’s principal engineering agency, providing an engineering service to the Flood Risk Management and Estate Portfolio Management functions of the OPW as well as to other Government Departments.

The Arts Council

Culture Night / Oíche Chultúir is brought to you by the Arts Council; it is a national moment, celebrating culture, creativity and the arts and seeks to actively promote the belief that this rich and varied culture is alive, treasured and nurtured in people’s lives, today and every day. It is delivered nationwide in cities, towns, villages as well as online and through media partners. Culture Night takes place this year on Friday, 19 September.