New July to December 2024 Events Programme Launched

Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark

Press release – New events programme Summer 2024

Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark is delighted to announce our public events programme for Summer 2024.  Each year the Geopark aims to host a range of events and activities which encourage people with various interests and abilities to engage with their Geopark and its unique landscapes, heritage, stories and to attract visitors to this wonderful UNESCO region.

The Geopark covers an extensive area across West Fermanagh and West Cavan containing over 60 sites of natural, historical, or cultural interest. Our events programme provides a unique opportunity to explore and discover more about these sites so regardless of your level of ability or area of interest there is something for everyone. There are 34 events most of which are led by Geopark Ambassadors, all of whom are from the Geopark area and passionate about their respective areas of expertise.   They are crucial to the delivery of our Events Programme and with their on-going support and assistance we are able to deliver a truly diverse and engaging programme. We will also be present at a number of community festivals and events during the Summer months providing free and interactive heritage activities for all.

Some highlights of the 2024 programme include:

Adventure Caving: Join Geopark Guide Helen and Cave leader Sean for an underground adventure.  Explore the maze of underground passages that stretch out under the stunning village of Boho in the heart of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark and learn about how and why they have formed here.  No caving experience necessary and all equipment will be provided.  Saturday 17 August 11am-1pm.

Heritage Week Geopark Summer Scheme: Join Geopark staff and guides for 5 days of activities including biking, caving, bug hunts, fossil making, archery, bushcraft, kayaking and a visit to the water park at Cavan Adventure Centre.  Monday 19 – Friday 23 August, meeting in Killykeen Forest Park.

From Fleece to Fabric – The Story of Wool: Come along to Dowra Courthouse on Friday 23 August to see the story of wool from fleece to fabric with Geopark Guides Bee, Morag and Dani. See demonstrations of carding, dyeing, spinning and weaving and why not have a go yourself! Hear stories of St Brigid, Patron Saint of sheep and cattle farmers, weavers and makers. See how you can elevate the value of this natural resource by transforming it into a thing of beauty.  Taking place 1-4pm.

Bat Hunt on International Bat Night: Join Geopark Guide and local bat expert Ian on a quest through the night in search of one of Ireland’s most mysterious creatures.  Use our specialist bat detectors to identify different species and find out why these legally protected flying mammals are so important to our ecosystem.  Taking place in Castle Caldwell, Saturday 24 August, 8.30-10pm.

Intergenerational Choir Performance: The Ballyconnell Intergenerational Community Choir will present a wonderful uplifting programme of music. Director of the choir Karina Charles Lynch is keen to get people of all ages singing together. We all know that singing makes us feel good. Andrew Lynch is on keyboard accompaniment. This will be an opportunity to hear a new Community Choir with a few solo numbers by Karina and Andrew and perhaps a special guest. Members of the audience will be invited to part take in a little singing too. This community initiative is funded by Creative Places and The Arts Council of Ireland and Cavan Arts, and takes place in Cavan Burren Park Sunday 25 August, 7-9pm.

Full details of all events and activities and booking can be found on the Geopark Website: www.cuilcghalakelands.org, or contact us on info@cuilcaghlakelands.org or Telephone 00353 (0) 71 9853692.