Celebrating Irish Heritage Crafts during National Heritage Week. As part of National Heritage Week 2026, this event shines a spotlight on Ireland’s traditional crafts — living skills and knowledge that are precious yet vulnerable, and worth protecting for future generations. Set within the historic ruins of the 13th-century Norman castle (built by William Marshal on the ancient seat of the Kings of Leinster), the fair offers a powerful setting to reflect on how built heritage, cultural traditions, and craft skills interconnect and sometimes face challenges in the modern world.
Discover & Protect Ireland’s Timeless Craft Traditions
Irish crafts emerged from the land and the resilience of its people. Using local materials such as wool, willow, clay, wood, stone, and metal, generations transformed everyday needs into beautiful, meaningful objects. Many of these heritage skills are “at risk” — threatened by declining numbers of practitioners, loss of traditional knowledge, and changing ways of life. Events like this fair play a vital role in keeping them alive.
Join us for a memorable day of craft, history, community, and heritage preservation. Whether you’re seeking a unique handmade treasure or simply a wonderful family outing, your presence supports the living heritage of Ireland.
We look forward to welcoming you to Ferns Castle for this special celebration of craft and heritage!