Celebrate European Heritage Open Day at Free Events in Fermanagh and Omagh

European Heritage Open Day is an annual celebration of local architecture, history and culture and gives opportunity for curious families, architect lovers and heritage enthusiasts to explore buildings and sites rarely open to the public. Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is supporting a number of activities as part of the European Heritage Open Day initiative, with a variety of free events planned across the district on 14th and 15th September 2024.

Events on Saturday 14 September in Fermanagh include “Green Up Your Garden” at Killyfole Lake where participants can drop-in between 2pm and 4pm and learn sustainable gardening practices. For sports enthusiasts, a drop-in Rounders Taster will take place from 11am – 12pm in Tempo Maguires GAC.

Also taking place on Saturday 14 September is a guided walk at Killykeegan to explore the area’s natural beauty and a ”Magnificent Minibeasts” workshop offers an educational experience centred around local wildlife. Those seeking adventure can enjoy a Mountain Jeep Safari at Cuilcagh Lakelands, a unique way to experience the region’s stunning landscapes. These events require pre-booking at www.cuilcaghlakelands.org.

The Omagh Cultural Hub will open its doors for public viewing of its unique built heritage on Saturday 14 September from 11am – 3pm.  Visitors can also explore the community restored Rylagh Lime Kiln over European Heritage Open Days. The Termonmaguirc Historical Society will have a display on Saturday 14 September based on the significance of local townlands available to view in the Patrician Hall from 10am-3pm. These events are drop-in with no booking required.

Two walking tours will take place, ‘Omagh Music Heritage Walking Trail’ on Saturday 14 September and ‘Omagh’s Built Heritage Walking Tour’ on Sunday 15 September. Spaces on these are limited and must be pre-booked at Strule Arts Centre, Omagh.

Speaking about European Heritage Open Day, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry said:

”Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is delighted to support such a diverse range of free events for European Heritage Open Day 2024, showcasing the rich tapestry of our district’s heritage.

The Council is committed to valuing and enriching our heritage and making accessible the rich, diverse, natural, built and cultural heritage of our district and this offering provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to engage with our local history and environment.

I encourage everyone to participate and discover the heritage that makes Fermanagh and Omagh truly special”.

All European Heritage Open Day 2024 events are free to attend, though advance booking is required for some activities. Information on events including how to book is available at the Events and Festivals webpage on the Council website.

For further enquiries email events@fermanaghomagh.com or telephone 0300 303 1777.