Heritage Week 2024

Limerick Lace and Mountaineering: Heritage Weekend Shenanigans Await!

Dive into Heritage Week 2024 with a lace-making makeover in Limerick and thrilling mountaineering tales in Westmeath!

As Heritage Week 2024 approaches, creativity and tradition collide in Limerick with the exciting redesign of the Limerick Lace Beginner Kit. Spearheaded by the passionate volunteers of Friends of Lace Limerick, this initiative aims to not only preserve the exquisite lace-making craftsmanship that has adorned Irish culture but also introduce newcomers to this delicate art. This redesign promises to make lace-making accessible and fun for everyone, ensuring that this cherished skill continues to thrive in modern times. Lace lovers are buzzing with anticipation as they gear up for workshops and community events that highlight the intricate beauty of Limerick lace.

But don’t put your crafting needles down just yet! This Saturday, August 24, Heritage Week brings another thrilling event at Belvedere House and Gardens, where the spotlight will shine on ‘Big Mountains and the Big House.’ A panel of expert speakers will delve into the fascinating connections between Westmeath and global mountaineering. You’ll be inspired as they share riveting stories and insights linking this lush Irish county to some of the world’s highest peaks and greatest climbs. Whether you're a mountain enthusiast or simply looking for your next weekend adventure, the insights shared here are sure to captivate!

Heritage Week is all about celebrating our past, and Limerick Lace and mountaineering both represent unique threads of Irish heritage. As visitors flock to these events, they’re reminded of the importance of preserving local culture while encouraging diverse participation. Lace-making and mountaineering may seem worlds apart — one involves intricate handiwork while the other requires a sturdy pair of hiking boots — but both are tied together by the spirit of adventure and the joy of discovery.

So grab your lace-making kit or lace up your hiking boots, because this Heritage Week is set to be an unforgettable experience! Did you know that Limerick lace was once made from fine silk and was highly sought after by the elite, while the first Irishman to summit Mount Everest was a Westmeath native? Let’s celebrate these incredible stories that weave our history together!