The Wild Atlantic Words Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a testament to the enduring power of words and stories. Each year, the festival gathers a diverse community of writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts for several days of reading recitals, debates, and reflection. It’s a celebration of established voices as well as new and emerging writers who are shaping the future of Irish literature.
From the moment it was conceived by the a number of like-minded creative people, the Wild Atlantic Words Festival set out with a clear mission: to create a high-quality event that would honour the literary traditions of County Mayo while also embracing the contemporary voices that are adding new layers to our cultural narrative. The festival’s founders understood that the west of Ireland, with its dramatic landscapes and deep-rooted storytelling traditions, was the perfect setting for a festival that would celebrate both the past and the future of Irish writing.
Since its inception, the festival has grown in scope and reputation, drawing participants from all corners of Ireland and beyond. Luminaries of the literary and arts world such as Sally Rooney, Elizabeth Reapey, Diarmaid Ferriter, Maureen Gaffney, Donal Ryan, Mike McCormack, Pat McCabe, Mary Robinson, Louise Kennedy, Eoin McNamee, Katriona O Sullivan, Paul Brady and Tommie Gorman have all graced the festival.
It’s not just the picturesque setting that draws people in, but the rich program of events that the festival offers. Attendees can immerse themselves in a wide range of activities, from intimate readings with celebrated authors to lively panel discussions that explore the intersection of literature and contemporary issues. Each event is carefully curated by the committee to provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and creative exchange, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
One of the festival’s standout features is its commitment to new and emerging writers. The Wild Atlantic Words Festival provides a unique opportunity for these writers to showcase their work and engage with a broader audience. Through workshops, open mic events, and mentorship opportunities, the festival nurtures the next generation of literary talent, giving them the tools and encouragement they need to succeed in their creative endeavours.
Wild Atlantic Words Festival and the committee behind it is a wonderful example of how a festival can celebrate and encourage creativity in our communities.
Austin Vaughan
"“The festival aims to celebrate the literary heritage of our rugged coastline over several days of readings, music, debates and reflection, while also acknowledging our new and emerging writers. It has grown from a two-day event to a week-long festival since 2016 and is now the biggest off-shoulder season festival in the county. We are ambitious to make it bigger and better every year.”"
