29th August 2023

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has organised a number of free events as part of this year’s European Heritage Open Days (EHOD).

Taking place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September 2023, EHOD is an annual celebration of local architecture, history, and culture, with this year’s theme focusing on Living Heritage.

Council organised events include the Owenbreen River Family Fun event at Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, which includes a guided walk along the Owenbreen River and a Rock Detectives workshop for children at Cladagh Glen, where they will have the opportunity to uncover real fossils from 340 million years ago.

At Enniskillen Castle there will be an opportunity to explore the islands and shores of Lough Erne at a Community Workshop, as well as a lunchtime talk highlighting stories about County Fermanagh, its place names and the significance of the Ordnance Survey. There will also be the opportunity to join a tour of the historic Galloon Monastic Site and Ancient Graveyard, which form part of the Lough Erne Pilgrim Way.

In Omagh, Council organised events include a guided bat walk at Lovers Retreat, led by the Council’s Climate team, and a Historic Buildings walk and talk with local historian Vincent Brogan, where people will have the opportunity to find out about the town’s built heritage. There will also be a guided tour led by Declan Forde, showcasing Omagh’s rich music and Showband heritage, where participants will revisit the locations of the rehearsal rooms, dance halls and ballrooms and take in the Showband Exhibition currently on display in the Strule Arts Centre.

At the Mellon Centre for Migration Studies, a pre-launch ‘sneak peak’ of the 3 Stories of the Mid Tyrone Gaeltacht – a selection of three of the best folktales from Sgéalta Mhuintir Luinigh – will take place, as well as the opportunity to visit the restored Rylagh Limekiln.

Speaking about this year’s EHOD programme of events organised by the Council, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, said:

“The Fermanagh and Omagh district is rich in culture and heritage. The Council is delighted to participate in European Heritage Open Days so that more people can explore and enjoy the area’s local heritage through a range of free events.  I would encourage everyone to check out the event programme and to get out exploring over the weekend.”

Admission to all events and activities is free of charge however booking is essential.

Further information on Council EHOD 2023 events, including dates, times and booking, is available on the Events and Festivals section of the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council website.