Popular Mayo Museum launches engaging autumn programme

The National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park has just launched an engaging new programme of events taking place this autumn. 

From connecting with the cosmos to the traditional skills of the cooper, the National Museum is encouraging people to browse the programme, pencil in a visit, and connect with culture this autumn. 

Below are some highlight events and activities for September and October. Visit here for further details.

Celebrate Culture Night on Friday, September 19 with a visit to the National Museum on your doorstep. The main museum galleries will be open late from 6pm until 9pm. Admission, as always, is free. See the popular temporary exhibition The Murmur of Bees and explore various themes from the National Folklife Collection including trades and crafts, life in the home, life in the community, clothing, textiles, farming and fishing. Culture Night is an annual, all-island initiative celebrating the richness and diversity of culture in Ireland today and connecting people to cultural activities. See here for full details.

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Beekeeping demonstration 

Join Jude Walsh from the Mayo Beekeepers Association for a fascinating live demonstration and talk on beekeeping from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday, 27 September. This special event is held in conjunction with the temporary exhibition The Murmur of Bees, an exciting exploration of the magic of Ireland’s bees and their deep influence on our culture and environment. Discover the world of bees at this engaging event - perfect for nature lovers, families, and curious minds of all ages. Admission is free. Booking is required. Telephone  094 9031751 or email bookingscountrylife@museum.ie.

Exploring Mayo Dark Skies

Did you know Mayo is working towards becoming an International Dark Sky Reserve? Already home to Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Park, the county boasts some of the darkest and most pristine night skies in the world. Join the Mayo Dark Sky Team from 3.30pm to 4.30pm on Saturday, October 11, to learn more about this incredible natural resource and the efforts underway to preserve it. Whether you're a stargazer, environmentalist, or simply curious, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos and the community working to protect it. Suitable for all ages. Admission is free. Booking is required. Telephone 094 9031751 or email bookingscountrylife@museum.ie.

Learn about cooperage 

The Museum is hosting a live cooperage demonstration with Foxford-based Dair Nua from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday, October 18. Discover the traditional art of cask repair and restoration, as skilled coopers showcase the tools, techniques, and dedication required to bring these historic vessels back to life. Learn about the craftsmanship and the rich heritage of cooperage in Ireland. Afterwards explore the National Folklife Collection to view beautifully crafted cooper-made items and the associated tools of the trade. This is a free event. No booking required.

Midterm at the Museum

The Museum’s popular Halloween celebrations will run this year from Saturday 25 October to Sunday November 2. Throughout the midterm school break, young visitors can blast off plenty of energy with the Scarecrow Jack Hunt in the woods. The fun outdoor trail is based on the character of Stingy Jack who inspired the Jack o’Lantern tradition at Halloween. There will also be plenty of crafting activities to enjoy during the midterm break and an indoor ‘Scary Objects’ trail in the exhibition galleries. Be sure to follow the National Museum of Ireland on social media for further updates.

Museum opening hours  

Admission to the National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park House and Gardens is free. The exhibition galleries are open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday to Monday from 1pm to 5pm. 

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