West Cork's keeping her lit-erary!

An absolutely stellar line-up of writing talent has been confirmed for the 2026 West Cork Literary Festival with the official unveiling of this year’s programme.

Taking place in Bantry from 10-17 July, this year’s festival is filled from cover to cover with internationally acclaimed authors, outstanding Irish voices, emerging writers, and a wide range of events designed for readers and writers alike.

Building on the success of last year’s outing, West Cork Literary Festival 2026 will feature writing workshops, masterclasses, readings, in conversation events, and an even stronger focus on translated literature, showcasing work translated from Dutch, Flemish, French, German, Irish, Korean, and Swedish.

Attendees can also enjoy unique experiences such as a Pop Up Gaeltacht, the beloved annual trip to Whiddy Island, yoga on the lawn of Bantry House, and a refreshing sea swim for anyone seeking a moment of calm during the week.

Commenting ahead of the programme’s official unveiling, festival director Eimear O’Herlihy said a lot of work has been done behind the scenes to ensure yet another incredible outing for the beloved festival.

“Now that the days are getting longer – and hopefully brighter – it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your plans for the summer,” said Eimear.

“We've a jam-packed schedule with everything from three-day writing workshops to masterclasses, readings by international and Irish authors with a good mix of Cork talent.

“We can’t wait to see you all in Bantry.”

This year’s writer roster includes the likes of Sara Baume, Jung Chang, Paddy Donnelly, Elaine Feeney, Anton Hur, Charlie Mackesy, Dearbhla Mescal, Annemarie Ní Churreáin, Miriam O'Callaghan, Louise O'Neill, Katriona O’Sullivan, Ian Rankin, Djamel White, and Nussaibah, with many more confirmed in the full programme.

As always, the festival remains deeply committed to nurturing a love of literature among young audiences, with all events for children and young people totally free of charge.

Eimear said: “I hope that young people and families will take this opportunity to join the fun and discover a love of reading.”

The Festival Friends membership scheme plays a vital role in supporting the festival’s free children’s events, artist development, and outreach programmes that help keep the event accessible to all. Friends enjoy priority booking, reserved seating, invitations, discounted tickets, and more.

Friends priority booking and general booking for workshops is now open, with general booking for all other events opening on 14 April.