Dublin Writers Festival

Dublin Writers Museum

Ireland is renowned for its writers past and present and the Dublin Writers Festival from June 4-11, 2012 brings together some well-known names and a few new voices.

Ever since it started in 1998, the festival has been Ireland’s premier literary event each year. There are readings and book signings – a chance to meet your favorite writers – and also panel debates, workshops, performances, even some film screenings. One of this year’s highlights will be Richard Dawkins, the controversial biologist, who is speaking at the National Concert Hall on June 5th. Expect tickets to sell fast for that session.

One of the great things about traveling to an event like this is that you get to see the real city, meet the people who live there, go to the prime venues in town, and hear the culture in action. Storytelling is so important to the Irish and this Writers Festival is a great means to understanding this place and its people. Events are held at venues including the Dublin Writers Museum, which is housed in a lovely Georgian villa and recently celebrating its 20th anniversary; at the Samuel Beckett Theater, Beckett being one of their most famous literary sons; at The Ark which is a creative center for children; and at The Sugar Club which is a music and performance venue: it’s not all just tame readings in bookshops!

Read more about Dublin’s literary history.

- Philippa Burne

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