• 13 Aug 2019

Twin Trees Heywood Festival

Ballinakill Community Development Committee will host its inaugural ‘Twin Trees’ Festival, this year, from 22 - 25 August. The overarching aim of our festival is to highlight the rich history and heritage of Ballinakill, with a view to establishing it as an annual community run event.The 2019 festival is inspired by the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Edwin Lutyens, the celebrated architect who created the exquisite formal garden at Heywood Gardens.  The festival will take place during Heritage Week 2019, and on Saturday 24 August. The festival is delighted to welcome Amanda Pitcairn, a direct descendant of Sir Edwin Lutyens, and representatives of the Lutyens Trust. Their knowledge and expertise will be imparted during the tours, Talks & Afternoon Tea package, on 24 August, starting at 12pm.

After touring Heywood Gardens with Amanda, David Averill FRIAI, of the Lutyens Trust, will deliver a talk, in All Saints' Church, Ballinakill entitled LUTYENS & HEYWOOD IN CONTEXT, followed by afternoon tea and Dr Matthew Jebb, the renowned Irish botanist and Director of the National Botanic Gardens, delivers his Talk - LUTYENS, LAMBAY & JEKYLL.

The ‘En Plein Air’ outdoor painting event, tutored by established artists Jock Nichol and Bridget Flannery, takes place over three days, set in Heywood Gardens, the surrounding woodlands, and picturesque Ballinakill village. The En Plein Air takes place from 22- 24 August. Saturday 24th promises to be a great celebration with numerous events, including a Picnic & Musical Evening, hosted on the spectacular lawn at Heywood Gardens. This is a free event, and families are encouraged to bring along their own picnic, relax in the stunning surroundings, and enjoy the beautiful music.

The following morning, at 11am, again utilising the wonderful setting of Lutyens’ creation, will be the final day with Yoga In The Garden, tutored by Simon Rodgers of Blackhill Woods Retreat. There will be a range of many other interesting activities and events during the festival, such as a Fishing Competition, and  Floral Artistry display, curated by Eva Holmes, with works created by Durrow & Cullohill, Flower & Garden Club, and Kilkenny Flower Club.