European Heritage Open Days
Plan your visits this EHOD
Plan your European Heritage Open Day visits and explore memorable experiences across Northern Ireland – from historic places and family friendly events to unique attractions open for EHOD 2026.
The 2026 theme 'Heritage at Risk' invites you to look more closely at heritage that is vulnerable or changing and to discover how it is being protected, revived and reimagined. Through inspiring projects and special event, the theme highlights positive actions, local pride and shared responsibility we all have in caring for heritage so it can be valued and enjoyed for generations to come.
About European Heritage Open Days
European Heritage Open Days in Northern Ireland
European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) is Northern Ireland’s annual celebration of heritage, bringing people closer to the places, stories and traditions that shape our shared past. It is part of the wider European Heritage Days (EHDs) initiative, which takes place across more than 50 countries each year.
EHOD began in Northern Ireland almost 29 years ago, originally coordinated by the Historic Monuments Council with a small programme of events. Since then, it has grown significantly - from a handful of openings to a vibrant programme of over 250 events each year, coordinated by Historic Environment Division part of Department for Communities (DfC) and delivered by heritage organisations, community groups, volunteers and site owners across the region.
At its heart, EHOD is about access, participation and inclusion. Each year the programme offers free opportunities for people to explore historic buildings, landscapes and collections, many of which are not normally open to the public. Alongside site openings, EHOD includes walks, talks, workshops, hands‑on activities and family‑friendly events designed to appeal to a wide and diverse audience.
EHOD also creates space for communities to share their own heritage stories, knowledge and experiences. By encouraging collaboration between professionals, volunteers and local groups, the programme helps foster pride of place and a deeper understanding of the value of heritage in everyday life.
As part of the European Heritage Days network, Northern Ireland’s programme contributes to a shared European celebration that promotes cultural understanding, cooperation and the protection of heritage for future generations.
European Heritage Days (EHDs)
European Heritage Days is a pan‑European initiative jointly supported by the Council of Europe and the European Commission. Each year, millions of people across Europe take part in events that open doors to heritage, raise awareness of its value, and encourage engagement with the past in meaningful and accessible ways.
By participating in EHDs, Northern Ireland joins a wider international network that shares common values of openness, learning and cultural exchange, while celebrating the unique character of local heritage.
Why EHOD Matters
European Heritage Open Days plays an important role in making heritage more open, accessible and relevant to people today. By offering free access to places, collections and stories, EHOD helps remove barriers and encourages wider participation in heritage across Northern Ireland.
The programme supports learning, wellbeing and community connection by creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore heritage in meaningful ways. It also highlights the work of organisations, volunteers and local groups who care for heritage, helping to build understanding of its social, cultural and economic value.
As part of the European Heritage Days network, EHOD connects local heritage to a wider European context, reinforcing shared values of cooperation, inclusion and cultural exchange while celebrating the distinct character of Northern Ireland’s heritage.
Learn more about the Europe‑wide initiative and its aims - European Heritage Days
EHOD 2025 Review
EHOD 2025 opened its doors across Northern Ireland on 13-14 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.
Organiser Toolkit:
Whether you are new to EHOD or have taken part before, the Organiser Toolkit is here to support you every step of the way. It currently includes guidance on Registration and taking part, with more event and marketing tools to follow.
As we near this year's EHOD weekend, downloadable materials will be available, to include branding, guidance and promotional ideas to help you plan, deliver and share your event for maximum success.
We are grateful to all organisers who take part in EHOD and help make it a welcoming and inspiring celebration of our heritage.
Our organiser handbook is available to help you plan your EHOD 2026 event with confidence.
For more information or help, you can also contact the EHOD team.