The Red Line Book Festival 2025 takes place from October 13th – 19th in South Dublin County with over 40 literary events and an eclectic mix of established writers and new voices.
The bookish festival is a celebration of literature, storytelling and creativity and has grown to become one of the highlights of the cultural calendar. It offers an incredible opportunity to connect with the written word in its many forms whether you’re a reader, writer, or simply a lover of stories. From engaging discussions with authors to exciting workshops and performances, this festival creates a space for reflection, imagination, and community.
The Red Line Book Festival seeks to enhance the experience of culturally curious audiences visiting Dublin, offering them an exciting cultural environment in a suburban area of Dublin not normally associated with literary festivals. The festival also aims to foster local writing talent, with a range of workshops in different genres. Award-winning artist and illustrator Celina Buckley has been announced as illustrator in residence 2025. This prestigious residency includes a free, five-week workshop programme dedicated to fostering emerging Irish talent in the field of children’s book illustration. Aspiring illustrators are invited to apply for the limited workshop spots. Applications open now via redlinefestival.ie and the deadline for applications is August 22nd, 2025.
Other highlights of the festival include the prestigious Red Line Book Festival Poetry Competition which attracts hundreds of entries from all across Ireland annually. Award-winning poet Aifric Mac Aodha will judge the competition. The shortlist will be announced on Wednesday 1st October 2025, with the winner announced during this year’s Red Line Book Festival which runs this year from October 13th to 19th, 2025.
Supported by South Dublin County Council (SDCC) Libraries and Arts, The Red Line Book Festival features local, national and international authors, as well as panels, workshops, theatrical productions, children’s events and more. Events will take place in locations such as The Civic, Rua Red, Rathfarnham Castle, Clondalkin Round Tower Visitor Centre, The Old Courthouse, Rathcoole and branch libraries in South Dublin highlighting the richness of the county’s built heritage.
Full details of all of the events and authors will be announced at the beginning of September. For more information see redlinefestival.ie
