Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey is inviting everyone to get involved with the 24th annual European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) taking place from the 6 – 12 September 2021.
The event will celebrate local architecture, history and culture. This year’s EHOD event has been extended from the usual weekend to a full week of online events, with access to heritage buildings on the weekend of 10–12 September.
Over 250 heritage buildings will be opening during the weekend free of charge. A number of these properties are not normally open to the public, so EHOD offers an opportunity for everyone to explore many hidden treasures.
Minister Hargey launched the EHOD e-brochure, which details the exciting programme of events, at one of the participating properties, the Linen Hall Library in Belfast. The library will be hosting a digital event especially for EHOD ‘Stories of Hidden LGBT History at Linen Hall Library’ presented by Dr Richard O’Leary.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Hargey said: “The European Heritage Open Days theme this year ‘Inclusion – Exploring our hidden history together’ is about celebrating inclusiveness and diversity, a chance for everyone to appreciate the wonderful shared cultural heritage right on our doorstep.
“European Heritage Open Days remains a continued success due to the efforts of a wide range of communities and individuals which help deliver a largely volunteer-led programme. EHOD is for everyone – as the theme this year reflects – and I would urge people to take a look at the e-brochure and events listings and plan out your EHOD experience.”
There will be a wide range of events for everyone to take part in and enjoy: join storytellers on a guided tour of the Giant’s Causeway along the fully wheelchair accessible Green Trail; mingle with costumed guides at Castle Ward and learn more about its lesser known Women’s, LGBTQ+ and Mental Health histories; or if music is your thing why not enjoy a musical history walking tour of Omagh, with Strule Arts Centre.
Whilst all events are free many require pre booking. For more information check out Discover Northern Ireland where you can download the EHOD brochure and view the listings of the range of events and activities on offer for you to enjoy right across Northern Ireland.
