Jaipur Literature Festival coming to Dundalk this May
JLF Island of Ireland is an international edition of the globally renowned Jaipur Literature Festival that happens annually in the Pink City of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
The inaugural edition of JLF Island of Ireland, an international edition of the globally renowned Jaipur Literature Festival that happens annually in the Pink City of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India, is scheduled to take place across a ten-day run between venues in Belfast, Armagh, Dundalk and Dublin from 22–31 May, 2026
The all-island edition will feature leading writers and thinkers from Ireland, India and beyond, exploring themes spanning history, politics, climate, identity, language and culture, with a programme that also spans literature, current affairs, poetry and performance.
Supported by the Government of Ireland and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, it marks the first time an international JLF edition has been presented as a cross-border, multi-city event of this scale.
The festival opens in Belfast, running from 22–24 May, with a programme rooted in history, political thought and global context, bringing together leading voices to examine empire, identity and the forces shaping contemporary society.
In Armagh, from 26–27 May, the programme explores themes of history, memory, politics and storytelling, bringing together voices reflecting on both Irish and global contexts.
In Dundalk on 29 May, the festival presents a focused one-day programme centred on contemporary storytelling, featuring:
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The Crossroads of Crime with Paul Waters in conversation Sharon Dempsey
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Sound Healing Workshop by Kartikeya and Makrand
In Dublin, from 29–31 May, the programme brings together writers and thinkers across literature, history, food, politics and global affairs, exploring the connections between Ireland, India and the wider world through a diverse range of conversations and performances.
Helen McEntee, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, said: “JLF Island of Ireland is an ambitious new cultural initiative, one that will take place across four cities and towns this May. The programme reflects the depth and breadth of conversations shaping our world today.
“Bringing together voices from Ireland, India and beyond, the festival will deepen connections and create space for dialogue across this island and internationally.”
Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “The 2026 programme for JLF Island of Ireland offers audiences the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of writers and ideas, spanning literature, history, politics and culture.
“Its presence across multiple locations ensures that audiences can connect with work of global relevance, while reflecting conversations that resonate strongly within communities across the island.”
Mr. Sanjoy K Roy, Managing Director, Teamwork Arts. Pvt Ltd said, “JLF Island of Ireland brings together voices from Ireland, India and beyond across Belfast, Armagh, Dundalk and Dublin, this edition reflects our enduring commitment to creating a shared space for ideas, dialogue and cultural exchange.
“At a time when the world feels increasingly fragmented, literature offers a way to connect across histories, identities and borders. We are delighted to bring this all-island celebration to Ireland, continuing our belief in the power of words to inform, inspire and bring people together.”
JLF Island of Ireland will be free and open to all, continuing the festival’s commitment to accessibility and public engagement. Further programme details will be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information, visit: https://jlflitfest.org/ireland