Lit Lú Literary Festival Returns to Libraries Across County Louth
Following a highly successful debut in 2025, Lit Lú Literary Festival returns this September with an exciting week-long programme of FREE literary events taking place in libraries across County Louth.
Presented by Louth County Council and supported by Creative Ireland, the festival will run from Wednesday, 23 September to Tuesday, 29 September 2026, bringing together acclaimed authors, journalists, broadcasters and storytellers for a celebration of reading, writing and ideas.
Events will take place in libraries in Ardee, Carlingford, Drogheda, Dundalk and Dunleer, offering readers the opportunity to meet some of Ireland's most celebrated literary voices. All events are free to attend, however booking is essential.
The 2026 programme features a diverse range of fiction and non-fiction writers, including: Jason Corcoran, author of Leaving Russia: How Putin Forced a Nation's Future to Flee; Edie May Hand, author of Dirt Pickers; Clara Kumagai, author of Catfish Rolling; Clíodhna O'Sullivan, author of the bestselling Her Hidden Fire; Nicola Pierce, author of Great Irish Wives; Tanya Sweeney, author of Esther is Now Following You; Sinéad Brassil, broadcaster and host of First Look on LMFM; Belinda McKeon, author of Solace and Tender; Ciara O'Connor, author of The Skidderwolves; and Hilary White, writer, journalist and conservationist.
County Louth has a strong and growing reading culture. Louth County Council Library Service supports more than a dozen book clubs and recorded more than 415,000 book loans across its library network last year.
Commenting on the upcoming festival, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Dolores Minogue, said:
“Lit Lú celebrates the vibrant reading culture that exists across Louth and highlights the important role our libraries play as welcoming community and creative spaces.
“Reading offers lifelong benefits for learning, wellbeing and connection, and Lit Lú provides an opportunity for people to discover new authors, share ideas and engage with literature in an accessible and enjoyable way. I encourage everyone to explore the programme and book their place at these free events.”
Amanda Branigan, County Librarian and Head of Cultural Services, Louth County Council, added:
“Stories often begin in libraries. Lit Lú offers readers the opportunity to hear directly from the voices behind the stories, bringing together local talent and nationally acclaimed authors for a unique celebration of literature.
“Building on the tremendous response to last year's festival, we are able to present another exciting programme that invites people to explore new ideas, discover new books, engage with writers from across Ireland, and be inspired.”
The full Lit Lú programme and booking information is available at www.louthcoco.ie/library.
