Town of Books festival has something for everyone
BOOK lovers from all over the world will arrive into Graiguenamanagh this August for Ireland’s Town of Books Festival.
Taking place from Friday, August 23 to Sunday, August 25 till 6 p.m. daily, the festival is celebrating 21 years.
Set on the banks of the enchanting River Barrow, the festival has been a literary haven for book lovers and a cultural highlight for locals and visitors alike. Last year, the festival committee were delighted to welcome visitors from all over the world including Seattle, Washington DC, South Africa, Finland, Texas, Scotland and England.
The Town of Books Festival began in the town in 2003, and over the past two decades, it has grown from strength to strength. The three day festival attracts booksellers, avid readers, collectors, artists and enthusiasts from all corners of Ireland and further afield.
Every available space in the picture-postcard town is turned into a bookshop for the event. It has drawn big names and renowned collectors to the Kilkenny town down through the years, is now a nationally-recognised festival.
This year’s programme will include the very popular food and craft market at the Abbey Hall, music, poetry readings, face painting, the outdoor cinema and much more.
The committee is excited for the Plein Air artists to come back in 2024. The practice of en plein air painting became popular thanks to the impressionists, who liked to capture nature directly by completing their paintings outside. Last year, the town saw its largest gathering of artists ever, who spent the day painting scenes of Graiguenamanagh. At the end of the day, the artists displayed their work in an exhibition for the public to enjoy.
Among the booksellers this year are Black Gull Books, who stock a large body of art reference books, posters, Irish interest and rare and interesting books. Red Books from Co Wexford will return with their fantastic selection. The Secret Book and Record Store will be open throughout the weekend and Pat Woods will sell postcards and coins, while a wide selection of GAA books will also be available to buy.
The festival runs from 12 p.m. till 6 p.m. on Friday, August 23, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Saturday and Sunday, with entertainment and more offerings at evening time.
Follow Town of Books on Instagram and facebook for updates on all events. www.instagram.com/irelandstownofbooks/ www.facebook.com/IrelandsBooktown