Heritage Open Day at Teach John Micí Bán

Teach John Micí Bán is one of those places where the Irish language feels genuinely at home rather than curated for tourists. This heritage open day, part of National Heritage Week 2026 (15-23 August), opens the doors of this historic house in Carrigart to anyone curious about the Irish-speaking traditions of the Rosguill Peninsula. It suits families, language learners, and anyone with an interest in how ordinary community life sustained the Gaeltacht over generations - no prior knowledge of Irish required to enjoy the afternoon.

What to expect

The open day runs from 12 noon, giving you time to explore the house and learn about its history before the centrepiece of the afternoon: Lá Gaelach, an Irish language day running from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Lá Gaelach is a day of song and conversation through Irish, with local instrumentalist and singer Noel Mac Liam taking a central role. Sean-nós singer Michelle Nic Pháidín is among the local singers expected to perform. The programme follows a relaxed, community format - traditional music, local voices, and the kind of informal Irish conversation that the Gaeltacht has always run on. You do not need to be a fluent speaker to attend; the event is open to all, and the atmosphere is welcoming rather than academic.

Getting there

Carrigart sits at the base of the Rosguill Peninsula in north County Donegal, about 40km north of Letterkenny via the R251. From Letterkenny, follow signs for Milford and then Carrigart; the drive takes around 40 minutes. There is no regular public transport direct to Carrigart, so a car is the practical option for most visitors. Parking in the village is informal and generally easy to find. If you are coming from Derry, allow around an hour via the N13 and R245.

While you’re in Carrigart

The village sits at the start of the Rosguill Atlantic Drive, one of the most scenic coastal loops in Donegal - it is well worth an hour after the event. The surrounding Gaeltacht countryside, with its views across Sheephaven Bay, adds to the sense of place that makes Teach John Micí Bán feel like more than a building. There is more to see in Carrigart and across Co. Donegal.

Good to know

• Date: Tuesday 18 August 2026, 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m.
• Lá Gaelach: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (within the open day)
• Price: Free admission
• Part of: National Heritage Week 2026 (15-23 August)
• Check listings: heritageweek.ie for any updates or changes
• Accessibility: Contact the organisers directly via Heritage Week if you have specific access requirements