Almost 70 events for Heritage Week in Westmeath this year
It’s been busy for Westmeath heritage officer Melanie McQuade and her team as they prepare for National Heritage Week August 15-23.
A total of 68 events taking place in Westmeath and this year’s theme is ‘Heritage at Risk’: "It’s the highest number we’ve had so far so it’s very exciting," she says.
"We’re taking a broad view of that," says Melanie. "In terms of our natural heritage, we’re in a biodiversity crisis.
"So, natural heritage can be seen as at risk if we don’t appreciate it, value it, and look after it for our future generations."
As well as the county’s natural heritage, the week will highlight the historic and mythological heritage of Westmeath.
Melanie has seen National Heritage Week grow over her time at heritage officer: "This will be my 10th year for Heritage Week in Westmeath
"I think the number and variety of events has definitely grown and I think attendance has grown."
She advises people to book their spots now as spaces are limited.
"People have to book ahead and I think some of them are probably nearly booked out if not booked out already.
"But there are other events where capacity isn’t limited so there’ll be a great chance."
Melanie says National Heritage Week is a chance for areas all over Ireland to show off what makes them special.
"I think every area is unique in its own heritage, and heritage is such a big part of our local identity.
"A lot of people would think of Westmeath in terms of its geological heritage. I think every area, when you drill down into it, has its own unique heritage."