Mayo museum announces busy summer programme at Turlough Park
Poetry, nature, history and family fun among upcoming events in Castlebar
The National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park, Castlebar, has unveiled a packed programme of events and activities for the weeks ahead, offering something for visitors of all ages throughout the summer.
From live poetry and insect-themed workshops to historical talks and traditional outdoor games, the museum encourages the public to explore its exhibitions, gardens and grounds through a diverse range of free events.
One of the highlights of the programme will be ‘Catching the Cadence’, a special afternoon of live poetry readings and music on Saturday, July 4. Members of the Turlough Poetry Collective will perform original works accompanied by renowned piper Diarmaid Moynihan in what promises to be an atmospheric celebration of creativity and the spoken word. The event runs from 2pm to 3pm and booking is required.
The museum will also mark Insect Week 2026, which takes place from June 22 to 28, with a family-friendly Mini Beast Hunt and Bug Hotel Workshop on Sunday, June 28. Led by educator Fiona Deacy, participants will explore habitats around Turlough Park, learn about insects and wildlife, and build their own bug hotel to take home.
Visitors can further explore the fascinating world of insects through ‘The Murmur of Bees’ exhibition, which continues until September. The exhibition showcases specimens from the National Museum’s Natural History Collection and highlights the diversity of Ireland’s native bee population, featuring examples of every bee species found in the country.
History enthusiasts will have an opportunity to learn about one of Mayo’s most remarkable emigrants when the museum hosts a special talk on Sr Ignatia Gavin, known as the “Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous”, on Friday, June 26 at 3pm. The Mayo-born nun played a pioneering role in the early development of Alcoholics Anonymous in the United States and helped establish the treatment of alcoholism as a medical condition.
Outdoor activities return on Saturday, July 18, with visitors invited to try their hand at pétanque, or boules, during a free session hosted by Castlebar Pétanque Club from 11am to 1pm.
Later that afternoon, families can enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time with a selection of traditional Irish outdoor games, including Queenie I O, Snap the Bacon, Red Rover and 5 Slates. The event, delivered in partnership with Mayo Sports Partnership, takes place from 2pm to 4pm.
Admission to all events and exhibitions is free, although advance booking is required for some activities due to limited capacity.
For further information and booking details, visit the National Museum of Ireland website.