PHOTOS: Listowel Writers’ Week Most Successful In Recent Years

LISTOWEL Writers’ Week celebrated its 55th anniversary with soaring attendance numbers, sold-out events and an estimated €1.6 million economic impact for the local and regional economy.

The five-day festival, which took place from May 27st to 31st, attracted attendees across its literary, cultural and community programme, making 2026 one of the most successful years in the festival’s recent history.

This year’s programme featured some of the most influential names in literature, journalism, economics and public life, including Nicola Sturgeon, Fergal Keane, David McWilliams, Colm Tóibín, John Banville, Miriam O’Callaghan, Andrew O’Hagan, Sally Hayden and Liz Nugent, just to name a few.

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Visitors travelled from across Ireland and from countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, France and Switzerland, reinforcing the festival’s reputation as one of Ireland’s leading literary and cultural events.

Demand was evident throughout the festival with audiences filling venues across the town from morning until late evening.

Hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs throughout Listowel and North Kerry reported full occupancy during the festival period, while many visitors secured accommodation in Tralee, Killarney and neighbouring areas due to demand exceeding local capacity.

Chairperson Ned O’Sullivan said the anniversary festival demonstrated the continued relevance and growing appeal of Writers’ Week.

“Reaching our 55th anniversary is a remarkable milestone, but what is most encouraging is that the festival continues to grow and attract new audiences from Ireland and overseas. This year’s programme brought together an exceptional range of writers, journalists, thinkers and public figures, creating conversations that resonated far beyond Listowel. I want to thank our audiences, volunteers, sponsors, funders, the Arts Council, Kerry County Council, Fáilte Ireland, our writers, artists and local community for helping make this anniversary year such a success.”

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According to the festival’s Economic Impact Report, Writers’ Week generated an estimated €1.6 million in economic activity through visitor spending on accommodation, food, hospitality, retail and transport. Local businesses experienced a significant increase in trade throughout the festival.

Local business owner Lizzy Lyons of Lizzy’s Little Kitchen said the impact on the town was clear to see.

“Writers’ Week 2026 was the busiest festival period we have experienced in twelve years of business. The atmosphere around the town was incredible. We welcomed visitors from all over Ireland and overseas, and there was a real buzz from morning until night. Events like this are hugely important for local businesses and for showcasing everything Listowel has to offer.”

More than 60 volunteers supported the festival over the five days, while approximately 80 writers, speakers and performers participated in a programme that attracted audiences of all ages.