Arklow RNLI thanks community following successful 200th anniversary Open Day
- Pat Nolan
- 30 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Monday 3 August 2026
Arklow RNLI has thanked everyone who attended its Lifeboat Station Open Day on Sunday, after large crowds visited the station to help celebrate the charity's 200 years of lifesaving service in the town.
The family-friendly event saw visitors of all ages enjoy a day of entertainment, demonstrations and activities at the lifeboat station, while learning more about the RNLI's lifesaving work. Guests had the opportunity to tour the station, meet the volunteer lifeboat crew and fundraisers, see the lifeboats up close, enjoy live entertainment and family attractions, and receive important water safety advice from RNLI volunteers.
The Open Day formed part of Arklow RNLI's bicentenary celebrations, marking 200 years since the station was established in 1826. Throughout the day, the local community and visitors came together to celebrate the station's remarkable history and the dedication of the volunteers who continue to save lives at sea.
Speaking after the event, Arklow RNLI Fundraising PRO Pat Nolan said:
"We are truly grateful to everyone who came along to support our Open Day and celebrate this historic milestone with us. It was wonderful to welcome such large crowds to the station and to see so many families enjoying the day while learning more about the RNLI and our lifesaving work.
"On behalf of all our volunteers, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, exhibited, performed or helped in any way. The success of the Open Day was only possible because of the incredible support of our local community, and we are deeply appreciative of everyone who played a part in making it such a memorable occasion."
Arklow RNLI also thanked the many emergency services, community groups, local businesses, entertainers, exhibitors and volunteers who contributed to the event and helped make the celebrations such a success.
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteer crews provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the coasts of Ireland and the UK, and the charity relies on voluntary donations to continue delivering its lifesaving service.