The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to announce a series of events taking place at various locations across the country this August Bank Holiday. From markets to art exhibitions to history tours there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Farmleigh and Oldbridge House, Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre are hosting a Food and Craft market and a Farmer’s Market over the weekend. Visitors can savour artisan delights, pick up some fresh produce and discover unique crafts at our lively markets.
For history buffs, the Custom House Visitor Centre is hosting the ‘Irish Famine and Workhouse’ tours. Visitors can step back in time and learn all about the Great Famine and the Irish workhouse system from our expert guides.
Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran said: “This August Bank Holiday weekend, the Office of Public Works is delighted to invite the public to explore Ireland’s rich culture and heritage. We are delighted to offer a series of engaging events, whether you are a history enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or someone looking to connect with nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Farmleigh is hosting the Dublin Book Festival over the bank holiday weekend which promises to be fun for all the family. Join us for an exciting and engaging day featuring some of Ireland’s best-loved children’s authors and illustrators. There will be plenty of drop-in activities running throughout the day to get immersed in, including a self-led family scavenger hunt around the grounds to enjoy in your own time, book shop browsing, our children’s book swap stand, and our creative arts and craft station.
For more children entertainment, why not take a stroll through the Magical Fairy Door Trail at Charles Fort Military Fortress, Cork where fairy tales come to life.
Conversations at the Casino is an exhibition that features a selection of portraits from the State Art Collection which is managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW). The exhibition on temporary display in the Casino features 47 portraits by 32 artists. There are historic and contemporary paintings, original prints, sculpture and drawings on display. The portraits are of figures from different spheres of Irish life – the arts, sport and politics. The included artworks span five centuries – from a School of Rembrandt portrait dating to the 1630s to portraits created in 2016.
Photo Chris Bellew / Copyright Fennell Photography 2016
Casino Marino, Rathfarnham Castle and the National Botanic Gardens are hosting art exhibitions over the bank holiday weekend. Visitors can immerse themselves in beautiful and inspiring images, drawings and photographs throughout our OPW locations.
Don’t forget our new exciting initiative that sees free admission for all individuals under 18 to heritage sites across the country for the month of August 2025. This initiative encourages visitors under 18 to explore and engage with their culture and heritage during the month of August and ensures access for all by removing financial barriers.
Join us this August bank Holiday weekend for fun-filled events at OPW locations across the country. For more information and a full list of events, see links below or visit www.heritageireland.ie.
