The heart of rural crafts in Ireland

For generations, craftsmen were the heart of rural Irish communities, passing down skills, stories, and traditions that shaped everyday life. In honour of this enduring legacy, the Irish Heritage Crafts Co-op will proudly present a multidisciplinary craft demonstration that explores the deep roots and cultural richness of Irish rural crafts.

Hosted in the picturesque Dun na Sí crafts village, this immersive event brings history to life through authentic settings, including traditional huts, a blacksmith’s forge, and a fisherman’s cottage. These spaces will be transformed into vibrant hubs of activity, echoing the sights, sounds, and spirit of Ireland’s craft heritage.

Ireland’s craft tradition is a tapestry woven from necessity, creativity, and community. From the humble rushes used to make St. Brigid’s crosses to the strength of hand-forged iron and the intricate patterns of willow weaving, each craft tells a story of resilience and connection to the land.

Visitors will experience live demonstrations of:

• St. Brigid’s Cross making from locally gathered rushes

• Traditional blacksmithing, showcasing age-old metalworking techniques

• Willow weaving, including the crafting of fish traps

• Hurdling, using timber and willow to create functional and beautiful items

These crafts are more than skills—they are expressions of identity, heritage, and the enduring bond between people and place.

We want to thank the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and the National Monuments Service for their support of the Irish basketmaking tradition and for helping us to preserve those ancient skillsets.