The inaugural Mullingar Literary Festival, held between 4 and 6 July 2025, has been declared a “resounding success,” drawing large crowds and receiving glowing feedback from attendees, participants, and local businesses alike.

Spread across multiple venues – including Caffrey’s Bar, the Greville Arms Hotel, and the Mullingar Town Library – the festival brought a vibrant literary buzz to the heart of Westmeath. The programme featured a wide range of events, including author interviews, musical performances, readings, and panel discussions. It offered a platform for both rising and established voices in literature, creating a dynamic space where creativity, conversation, and community flourished.

Laurence Meehan, Chairperson of the Mullingar Literary Festival, praised the positive response: “We’re going to need a bigger boat,” he joked, referencing the overwhelming number of people attending events and the strong desire from the public for more. He confirmed that planning is already underway for the 2026 festival, promising new surprises and an even broader scope.