National Biodiversity Week takes place across Ireland from 16 to 25 May 2025 and the National Museum of Ireland has a number of events and activities in place to mark the initiative.
Our key highlight events include an insightful introduction to Ireland’s rich biodiversity and the vital role that pollinators play in maintaining healthy ecosystems with Dr. Michelle Larken, woodland and garden trails, and the opportunity to discover more about the 11,500 different six-legged insects living in our cities with Entomology Curator Aidan O’Hanlon.
All events are free.
3pm - 4:30pm | Saturday, 17 May | Adults and Children 14+
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Find out more about the important work of the National Biodiversity Data Centre and how you can become involved in pollinator monitoring schemes with Dr Michelle Larkin. FIND OUT MORE
11am - 1pm | Saturday 17 May | Adults
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Celebrate 160 years of the grapevine at Turlough Park by learning about its history and help to prune it for the new season. FIND OUT MORE
11am - 2:30pm | Saturday 24 May | Adults and Children 14+
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
As part of World Orienteering Week 2025, learn some basic map reading and navigation skills and complete an orienteering course around the grounds of Turlough Park. FIND OUT MORE
During Museum opening hours
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. FIND OUT MORE
11am | Saturday, 24 May | All ages
National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
Join biologist and broadcaster Éanna Ní Lamhna for a special event to celebrate the launch of the Clew Bay Garden Trail. FIND OUT MORE
EXHIBITION: The Murmur of Bees
During Museum opening hours
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. FIND OUT MORE
National Museum of Ireland, Merrion Street - Natural History Online
Looking for inspiration this Biodiversity Week? Discover our online resources linked to the collection at the Dead Zoo. FIND OUT MORE
National Museum of Ireland, Merrion Street - Natural History Online
About 11,500 different insect species have been discovered in Ireland. What six-legged insects live in our cities? Join Entomology Curator, Aidan O’Hanlon, for a short online talk on the six-legged neighbours living in our cities! FIND OUT MOR
No-Mow May
1 to 31 May,
No Mow May is an annual campaign asking everyone to put away the lawnmower during the month of May to help our native wildlife. The National Museum of Ireland is proud to be taking part in this aspect of the All Ireland Polinator Plan. Native Irish wildflowers like Dandelions, Clover, and Birds-foot trefoil provide the best source of pollen and nectar for our hungry wild pollinators. By mowing less, we can give them a chance to appear naturally – no seeds needed! LEARN MORE #NoMowMay