Our Collaboration with Hinterland Festival Kells
In a world where bustling cities often steal the spotlight, it's important not to overlook the charm and cultural significance of small towns. Recently, we had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with the Hinterland Festival in Kells, Meath, one of the heritage small towns nestled along the Boyne Valley in Ireland. This arts and literature festival provided us with a platform to document the commendable efforts of communities and businesses in preserving their rich cultural heritage.
Unveiling Hidden Treasures: From June 22nd to 25th 2023, the Hinterland Festival brought together a diverse array of individuals who shared a passion for sustaining and celebrating local culture. Our team, supported by the Hinterland Committee, had the privilege of capturing the essence of this remarkable event. We embarked on a journey to interview inspiring personalities, such as renowned Irish historian Catriona Crowe, esteemed meteorologist Gerry Murphy, and the remarkable Randall Plunket, owner of Dunsany Nature Reserve and the 21st Baron of Dunsany. Alongside these luminaries, we engaged with talented authors, musicians, and many more who graciously shared their insights on sustainability, heritage, and cultural preservation.
Empowering Local Communities: Our exploration extended beyond the festival grounds as we delved into the efforts of local businesses and communities. We were moved by the determination and passion displayed by the residents of Kells. Through interviews and conversations, we discovered their unwavering commitment to fostering placemaking, supporting sustainable practices, and preserving their town's unique character. Their collective spirit exemplified the power of collaboration and showcased how a tight-knit community can come together to safeguard their cultural heritage.
A Call to Responsible Tourism: Our mission in documenting the Hinterland Festival and Kells' cultural preservation efforts goes beyond mere observation. We aim to share these stories with the world, encouraging tourists to explore and appreciate small towns like Kells. By highlighting the achievements of these communities, we hope to attract responsible visitors who will contribute positively to the local economy and actively engage in sustainable practices. Our intention is to foster a deeper connection between tourists and the places they visit, avoiding the pitfalls of temporary and overtourism.
Continued Support and Collaboration: The experience of collaborating with the Hinterland Festival and the vibrant community of Kells has left an indelible impression on us. We pledge to remain connected with these communities and provide ongoing support in any way we can. This collaboration is just the beginning of a long-lasting relationship centered around the shared goal of preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable practices.
Join the Movement: If your town is also involved in similar cultural preservation efforts, we would be delighted to hear from you. By uniting our voices and sharing our experiences, we can inspire and empower one another in the pursuit of preserving the cultural fabric of our small towns.
The Hinterland Festival in Kells, Meath, served as a beacon of hope, illustrating the remarkable achievements of small towns in preserving their cultural heritage. Through our collaboration, we aimed to shed light on these efforts, encouraging responsible tourism and fostering placemaking. By showcasing the spirit and determination of communities and businesses, we hope to inspire others to embark on their own cultural preservation journeys. Let us embrace the past, celebrate the present, and work together to safeguard the treasures of our small towns for future generations.
