Get Involved: European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) 13-14 September 2025
The Department for Communities is inviting heritage venues, historic buildings, gardens and houses, community groups, and event organisers to take part in European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) 2025, Northern Ireland’s largest celebration of local history, architecture, and culture.
EHOD 2025 will take place on 13–14 September 2025, offering free public access to historic sites, cultural landmarks, and special events across Northern Ireland. Owners of historic properties, museums, heritage sites, and local community organisations are encouraged to participate and showcase their unique spaces and stories.
This year’s theme, "Architectural Heritage: Past Structures, Future Connections," will explore how historic buildings, structures, and landscapes shape our communities - preserving the past while inspiring the future.
Why Get Involved?
- Showcase your site or project to a wide audience.
- Attract new visitors and engage your local community.
- Join a Europe-wide celebration of cultural heritage.
- Promote your site for free through EHOD’s official programme and marketing campaign.
How to Register
Registration is now open for organisers interested in opening the doors of an historic building, buildings of architectural interest, hosting an event, guided tour, workshop, or special heritage activity. All events must be free to the public to take part.
📍 To apply visit: EHOD REGISTRATION
📅 The deadline for event registration is 11 May 2025.
Previous EHOD Highlights
EHOD has grown into a major cultural event, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. EHOD 2024 saw growing participation, with 75,267 visitors exploring 344 events across 230 sites. Highlights from recent years include:
- Behind-the-scenes tours of iconic landmarks such as Guild Hall, Museum Stores and the Charles Sheils Houses in Carrickfergus.
- Family-friendly living history experiences, such as medieval re-enactments at Portaferry Castle.
- Unique access to properties and events open only for EHOD, like Origami House and NI War Rooms.
- Special themed events reflecting Europe-wide heritage connections, such as guided walks tracing historic trade routes and transport networks.
For more information please email ehod@communities-ni.gov.uk.
Join us in bringing heritage to life and making EHOD 2025 the most exciting yet!
