Celebrate National Biodiversity Week 2026 with the National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park and Collins Barracks, where nature, history and discovery come together. Through a programme of engaging activities, hands‑on workshops and family‑friendly drop‑ins, visitors of all ages are invited to explore Ireland’s rich biodiversity and learn more about the plants, animals and ecosystems that surround us.
From outdoor experiences in the beautiful grounds of Turlough Park to close‑up encounters with fascinating specimens in the Dead Zoo Lab, Biodiversity Week offers inspiring ways to connect with the natural world.
National Biodiversity Week | 15 - 24 May 2026
All events are free.
Biodiversity Week at Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
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14:00 | Sunday 10 May 2026 | Families, Age 4+ | Booking required
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
When we think of pollinators, we often picture bees and butterflies—but many work at night while we sleep. Nocturnal pollinators play a vital role in crop pollination and food production. Learn how to support them in your own garden at the Moon Garden workshop, 2pm, Sunday 10 May 2026, at the National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park.
15.30 to 16:30 | Thursday 21 May 2026 | Families, Age 4+ | Booking required
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Join Michael Chambers from Wild Nephin National Park for an afternoon workshop exploring the minibeasts of the land and water at Turlough Park. We will learn about the habitats and plants where these creatures make their home. Michael will also show us how to use equipment to find and identify minibeasts.
13:00 - 16:00 | Saturday 23 May 2026 | Adults and Children 8+
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
As part of World Orienteering Week 2026, learn basic map‑reading and navigation skills while completing a fun and challenging orienteering course around the grounds of Turlough Park. This activity takes place across the Museum grounds and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
During Museum opening hours | April 2026
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Pick up a ‘Woodland Explorer’ activity booklet from Museum reception to explore a self-guided nature trail through the grounds of Turlough Park.
During Museum opening hours | April 2026
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Did you know there are more than 100 different bee species in Ireland, but only one that makes honey? Join us in celebrating the magic of Ireland’s bees, their vital role in nature, and the special bond they share with us.
Biodiversity Week at the Dead Zoo Lab, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
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14:00 - 15:30 | Sunday 17 May 2026 | All Ages
The Dead Zoo Lab, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Join us in the Dead Zoo Lab this National Biodiversity Week for a special drop-in event to meet the community curators behind Our Irish Natural History exhibition. Join our community curators to find out about their featured specimens, why they were selected for display in the Our Irish Natural History exhibition, and the biodiversity work they are undertaking in their local areas. With members of the Irish Community Archive Network: Clarecastle & Ballyea Heritage & Wildlife Group, Co. Clare; Milltown Heritage Group, Co. Galway; Louisburgh-Killeen Heritage Group, Co. Mayo and Glendalough Heritage Forum, Co. Wicklow.
Don’t miss Our Irish Natural History exhibition at the Dead Zoo Lab, open until the end of May 2026.
13:30 - 15:00 | Sunday 24 May 2026 | Families | Booking required
National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Get creative with recycled materials in this fun, hands-on family workshop as part of National Biodiversity Week and inspired by William Morris' Flora Tapestry. Children will design their own colourful paper gardens using repurposed Museum booklets, maps, and leaflets while learning about biodiversity and sustainability.
Selected dates from 16 to 25 May 2026 | Families, Ages 7+
The Dead Zoo Lab, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
Families are invited to drop into the Dead Zoo Lab at Collins Barracks during National Biodiversity Week for a fun, hands‑on activity celebrating Ireland’s wildlife. These free, short drop‑in sessions give children and adults the chance to learn about animals found on our doorstep—past and present—through close‑up exploration of real and replica furs, footprints and other fascinating specimens. Led by a Museum Educator, each session lasts 5–10 minutes and includes a self‑guided creative activity. No booking is required, and the event is wheelchair accessible—perfect for curious families of all ages.
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