Listowel Writers’ Week is Ireland’s oldest and most esteemed literary festival, held each late May to early June in the charming town of Listowel, County Kerry. Founded in 1970, the festival brings together writers, poets, and readers from Ireland and around the world for readings, workshops, panel discussions, and awards ceremonies. The town’s pubs, theatres, and streets buzz with creativity as both emerging and established voices share their work in an atmosphere of warmth and curiosity. Blending literature, community, and conversation, Listowel Writers’ Week celebrates the written word in the heart of rural Ireland.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Listowel or an Ireland route—we’ll plan author readings & talks, workshops & award events, smart timing & venues, and a walkable stay around the Square.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: Exact 2026 details not yet published—check official site nearer the date: Official site.
• Opening Night save‑the‑date: Organisers trail Opening Night on 27 May 2026 — see official Instagram update.
• The exact timetable publishes annually; the live program will appear on the festival Program hub when released.
LOCATION
• Venues: Across Listowel town (author talks, readings, workshops and family events) — overview on the Official site.
• Map: Listowel town centre (reference: Kerry Writers’ Museum) — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Buy tickets: Sales open via the festival (Ticketsolve) when the programme launches — see Ticket info.
• Fees: Online bookings carry a €3 per‑ticket fee (no fee for postal bookings) — per the Terms & Conditions.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Flagship awards: Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year and Pigott Poetry Prize are presented during the festival — see News for recent winners.
• Workshops & family: Craft workshops and children’s events feature each year — check FAQs and the coming Program page.
• Exact timetable publishes annually: Final schedules, venues and booking links will go live on the Program hub closer to the festival.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest an Ireland route that includes the Listowel Writers’ Week at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.