International Literature Festival Dublin

This event has ended

Merrion Square Park, Friday 15th May - Sunday 24th May

On an island of storytellers and in a city where books are treasured, International Literature Festival Dublin (ILFD) is Ireland’s leading literary event. Since 1998, we have brought the world’s finest writers together to enthral, engage and excite audiences.

In readings, conversations, debates, screenings, guided walks, events, podcasts and broadcasts, we’re proud to celebrate the very best Irish and international fiction and non-fiction authors, poets, lyricists, playwrights and screenwriters. Irish language writing and emerging talent are always supported, and new voices championed through commissions and public initiatives.

At ILFD, you’ll find events for readers of all ages and interests, including an out-of-the-box Fringe programme, events for Kids & Family, and professional development opportunities to help advance your skills. The festival’s presence is felt throughout the year with Off The Page – bespoke events featuring writers making headlines.

This year’s programme celebrates the power of storytelling in all its forms, offering bold discussions, unforgettable readings and unique experiences that reflect the richness and diversity of contemporary literature. Audiences are invited to engage with an exciting line-up of novelists, poets, essayists and thinkers from across the globe, with participants representing over 27 nationalities.

This year’s stellar line-up includes Tayari Jones, Robin Stevens, Sally Hayden, Steve McCarthy, Helen Oyeyemi, Jay McInerney, Maria Stepanova, Oyinkan Braithwaite, Elif Shafak, and Aoife Dooley, among many more.

From talks to walks; poetry to yoga; queer literary tours, sound baths, songwriting, art and film screenings, ILFD 2026 promises a rich cultural experience that fosters meaningful dialogue, creativity and connection.


Date:
Friday 15th May - Sunday 24th May
Time:
Varies
Price:
Varies
Address:
Merrion Square, Merrion Square East, Dublin, Ireland

Google Map of Merrion Square, Merrion Square East, Dublin, Ireland

You might also like...

What's on

Dublin Festival of History

Various Locations

The Dublin Festival of History will run from 26 September to 11 October 2026. The Dublin Festival of History is an annual free festival, brought to you by Dublin City Council, and organised by Dublin City Libraries, in partnership with the Dublin City Council Culture Company. Now in its fourteenth year, the festival has built a reputation for shining a fresh perspective on history and its importance in our everyday lives, attracting best-selling Irish and international historians to Dublin for a high-profile programme of history talks and debate each Autumn. Admission is FREE to all e

What's on

Pumpkins After Dark

Newbridge House & Farm

This Halloween, Newbridge House & Farm lights up after dark with thousands of glowing pumpkins, spectacular hand-carved displays, live entertainment and autumn magic. From 2nd to 31st October 2026, step into a world of illuminated pumpkin creations and wander through an enchanting outdoor trail filled with incredible carvings, imaginative scenes and unforgettable photo opportunities. With the full collection of Pumpkins After Dark displays returning for 2026, plus brand-new pumpkin creations, photo opportunities and a new pathway route through the site, there is more to discover than

What's on

SwellFest

Mountjoy Square

Dublin City Council and the North East Inner City (NEIC) Initiative are delighted to announce the return of SwellFest to Mountjoy Square, Dublin 1 on 3rd October from 12pm to 6pm. This free family festival encourages people of all ages and abilities to get involved in a huge range of sports activities, wellness talks, and demos. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to sit in on live conversations with World Cup star Roberto “Pico” Lopez, alongside popular local podcasters Terence Power and Calvin O'Brien. Adding to the lineup, Bohemians Football Club will be hosting a special take