The Red Line Festival is a celebration of all things literary; be it spoken, written, sung, played, illustrated, or even just thought!

The Red Line Festival brought to you by South Dublin Libraries and Arts takes place from the 16th- 22nd October 2023. It provides a programme of events and workshops aimed to attract people of all ages and interests. The initiative enhances the experience of culturally curious audiences visiting Dublin and Ireland, offering them an exciting cultural environment in a suburban area of Dublin not normally associated with literary festivals. This year we are expanding the festival beyond the book to include other cultural streams (comedy, sport, music, theatre etc).

Now in its twelfth year, the Red Line Festival features events in quality performance venues such as the Civic Theatre, RUA RED Arts Centre, historical buildings including Rathfarnham Castle and Pearse Museum at St. Enda’s Park, along with our fantastic branch libraries across South Dublin County.

With over 35 events, the Red Line Festival taps into the area's wealth of home-grown talent as well as presenting a selection of national and international speakers. Among the authors who have been part of the Festival programme previously are award-winning writers John Banville, Colm Toibín, Simon Armitage, Paul Muldoon, Kevin Barry and many others. In addition to the core literary events, the festival will present theatrical pieces, exhibitions, sports, comedy and music sessions. This exciting festival will really have something for everyone!”