2016 European Heritage Open Days – Get Involved!

Date published: 18 July 2016

This year European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) organised by the Department for Communities will take place on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September 2016.

Minister Givan

EHOD 2016 will see over 300 properties open their doors for free with many exciting events across Northern Ireland.

To ensure the adequate support and smooth running of these days, the Department works closely with Volunteer Now to recruit a large number of volunteers to ensure an enjoyable day out is had by everyone involved.

Minister for Communities Paul Givan MLA said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a wonderful weekend of events. 

“I would urge the public to volunteer at one of the many historic sites across Northern Ireland on the weekend of 10 and 11 September. 

“Volunteering can give you the opportunity to try something new, gain valuable experience, share your knowledge and skills, build confidence, help others and meet new people while supporting our economy through tourism.”  

Wendy Osborne CEO Volunteer Now said: “Volunteer Now is delighted to be once again recruiting volunteers for the European Heritage Open Days. With a wide variety of opportunities available across Northern Ireland at various locations and events, this will be a great opportunity to experience and appreciate many wonderful  buildings not normally open to the public."

Ken McCaw volunteered last year and enjoyed the experience, he said; “In September last year, through Volunteer Now, I got the opportunity to help out with the European Heritage Open Days. I was able to help at both the City Hall and the QSS Artist Gallery in Belfast and they were two most interesting days. Personally I learned a lot from the staff in both places and really enjoyed interacting with visitors and being able to help in many different ways.”

Registration for volunteer is now open and can be done online at the Volunteer Now website.

Notes to editors: 

  1. This is the 19th year that Northern Ireland has taken part in this free European-wide event, which aims to reflect our common and varied European Architectural Heritage across 50 European countries.
  2. EHOD 2016 listings will be available from Monday 15 August 2016 on the Discover Northern Ireland website 
  3. Volunteer Now works to promote, enhance and support volunteering – connecting with individuals and organisations to build healthy communities and create positive change. Whatever your interests, there is something for you - visit the Volunteer Now website or telephone 028 9023 2020.
  4. Follow us on Twitter @CommunitiesNI or Facebook by searching EHODNI
  5. Media enquires to DfC Press Office on 028 9082 9267. Out of hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.

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