European Heritage Open Days
European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) is an annual event celebrating local architecture, history and culture, which takes place across Europe on the second weekend in September. In Northern Ireland EHOD is run by the Department for Communities with the support of the Council of Europe and the European Commission. Each year over 250 people open their doors and organise events for EHOD across Northern Ireland.
EHOD 2025
EHOD is a once a year opportunity for curious families, architect lovers and heritage enthusiasts to explore buildings and exclusive sites rarely open to the public. This year European Heritage Open Days took place on 13 and 14 September 2025.
Each year EHOD’s across Europe celebrate a shared theme and for 2025 the theme was “Architectural Heritage - Past structures - Future Connections”
EHOD 2025’s theme, "Architectural Heritage- Past Structures - Future Connections," engaged both visitors and event organisers with the history, design, and cultural significance of Northern Ireland’s architectural landmarks.
Architectural heritage isn’t just about the structures of the past - it’s about the people, stories, and connections they continue to inspire. Through ‘Past Structures, Future Connections,’ we celebrated how these spaces shape our communities and connect us across generations.
EHOD 2024 review
EHOD 2024 opened its doors across Northern Ireland on 14 and 15 September.
With a wide variety of fascinating talks, tours and lectures as well as brand new places to visit there was something for everyone to enjoy.
A downloadable summary annual report is available.
Sign up for the LoveHeritageNI newsletter
You can keep up to date with all things EHOD and much more by signing up to our LoveHeritageNI newsletter and following us on social media:
FB /loveheritageNI
Instagram/Twitter @LoveHeritageNI
X (formerly twitter) www.twitter.com/loveheritageni
Once you have been added to our mailing list you will receive the very latest news and information about EHOD alongside tips and advice to help make the weekend a memorable visitor experience
Contact
You can contact the European Heritage Open Day team via Historic Environment Division.