Cork is about to throw one of the biggest history parties ever.

From August 16th to 24th, National Heritage Week will take over the county with more than 150 events—everything from exploring ancient ruins to hearing the stories behind local landmarks, to soaking up the music, crafts, and traditions.

This year’s theme, “Exploring Our Foundations,” is all about digging into what built us—not just bricks and mortar, but the landscapes, legends, and community spirit that have shaped our corner of the world.

Whether you’re a history fanatic or just looking for a good day out or some educational entertainment for the kids there’s something for everyone.

Here a taster of what’s happening: 

• Bandon-Kinsale: Family friendly events in Charlesfort and the Bandon Walled Town Festival in Bandon, including a medieval re-enactment, as well as a number of events at the Old Head Signal Tower and Lusitania Museum.
• Carrigaline: The Tracton Biodiversity weekend will take place over the weekend of Friday, the 22nd to Sunday, the 24th of August.
• Cobh: A range of events including a heritage walk of the town, a tour of the Old Church graveyard, tours of St. Colman’s Cathedral and a talk on the Martello Towers of Cork Harbour.
• East Cork: A number of events at Fota House as well as walking tours of Midleton and Youghal, including free guided tours of Youghal Clock Gate Tower on Thursday, the 21st of August.
• Fermoy: A talk on local holy wells in the North Cork town of Glanworth on Friday, the 22nd of August.
• Kanturk-Mallow: A talk on the history of Lohort Castle on Saturday, the 16th of August and a guided tour of Carrigcleena Rock in Bweeng on Tuesday, the 18th of August, famed as the residence of Cliodhna, the Queen of the South Munster Fairies.
• Macroom: An event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Lady Ardilaun of Macroom Castle on Sunday, the 17th of August and a talk regarding Macroom Castle Gate Lodge on Wednesday, the 20th of August.
• West Cork: A pop-up museum of Aughadown in olden times in Skibbereen Town Hall, a range of events by Skibbereen Heritage Centre as well as the award-winning Ellen Hutchins Festival taking place in various locations around West Cork.

For full details of all events taking place in Cork, check out the full programme for Cork here.