Kerry County Museum is delighted to host a number of free events to mark National Heritage Week which is celebrated from 13 to 21 August 2022. From special exhibitions, lunchtime talks to indoor and outdoor activities for all the family – we would love to welcome you at the Museum. All events are free, it is not necessary to book and all are welcome. Please note that children should be accompanied by an adult at all times.

A family favourite is our special exhibition Gowns of Glory, showcasing the changing fashion of Kerry’s popular Rose of Tralee Festival which takes place annually in August. Every summer, Kerry County Museumis hosting this popular exhibition and it is an absolute must for anyone with an interest in fashion and the festival. The exhibition includes 30 dresses over six decades, from Alice O’Sullivan’s gown in 1959 to the present.

If you always wanted to know how ancient techniques are used to conserve paper, vellum, silk and many other fabrics then put the 16 August in your diary. Paper conservator Paul Curtis from Muckross Bookbindery is going to talk about this fascinating topic during lunchtime at 1pm. Paul and his team are currently working on conserving the Museum’s O’Mahony collection. This and much more will be discussed by Paul in his talk.

If you are visiting with children, you can follow the Pangur Ban Discovery Trail through our galleries where you can explore the history and archaeology of Kerry from ancient Bronze Age treasures and Tom Crean to life in Medieval Tralee. Afterwards, why not explore Tralee Town Park with our new spotter sheets – a fun way to discover the green heart of the town.

There are many fascinating events taking place across Kerry and nationwide – visit www.heritageweek.ie to find out more.