Ballyscullion Park Book Festival Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th May 2026
A celebration of literature, music and art in the heart of Seamus Heaney Country
Nestled in the heart of the Northern Irish countryside, Ballyscullion Park Book Festival offers an unforgettable literary experience in the beautiful Walled Garden of Ballyscullion Park. Blending world-class talent with the warmth of a family-run venue, it creates an atmosphere that is both inspiring and welcoming.
What sets the festival apart is its combination of natural beauty, engaging conversation, and a carefully curated programme championing established voices and fresh perspectives. Whether you’re an avid reader or simply love a well-told story, there is something for everyone.
This year’s exceptional line-up includes Jung Chang, author of Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China, who will discuss Fly, Wild Swans, the sequel bringing her family’s story, and that of China, up to date. Internationally renowned novelist Lionel Shriver will share her insights on society and storytelling, alongside Northern Irish crime writer James Murphy, philosopher and health researcher Dr Charlotte Blease, and acclaimed novelist and commentator Martina Devlin. We are also delighted to welcome back our Patron, Carlo Gébler, and Martin Doyle, Books Editor of The Irish Times. Many other novelists, historians and commentators will also share their inspirations and techniques.
From thought-provoking talks and panels to scenic walks and garden book signings, the festival is more than a weekend event, it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and connect. Guests can enjoy artisan coffee, excellent local food, and the returning Artisan Market showcasing ceramics, food, art and jewellery.
On Sunday afternoon, a dedicated children’s festival programme of storytellers, authors and educators will inspire young minds and nurture imagination.
We are proud to support the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, with proceeds providing vital care for local families.
The 2026 Ballyscullion Park Book Festival will take place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2026.
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“The hospitality is fantastic, incredibly beautiful surroundings, lovely house, lovely garden and distant views of Lough Beg. It is quite miraculous, a paradisical experience, and you get to talk about what you love in an absolutely perfect place.” Carlo Gébler, Ballyscullion Park Book Festival Patron.” Carlo Gébler, Ballyscullion Park Book Festival Patron
THE ARTISAN MARKET
Food and coffee
The Ballyscullion Park Book Festival is proud to host a vibrant artisan market, where visitors can browse and purchase an exceptional range of high-quality goods created by talented local makers. With so many skilled artisans gathered in one place, the market is a wonderful opportunity to discover, support and take home something truly special for yourself or perhaps a gift for a friend or family member.
Visitors to the Festival can also look forward to a delicious selection of food from The Curious Farmer and Tondo Pizza, ice cream and milk shakes from AJ’s Farmshop as well as excellent coffee from Buzz n’ Berry and Latte-da. To learn more about the incredible line up of Artisans and more about our food and coffee vendors, click the button below.
Writing Workshops
We are very excited to share our Autumn Writing Workshop programme. Beginning in October, local acclaimed writers including Byddi Lee, James Murphy and Martina Devlin will be leading writing workshops at Ballyscullion Park.
For more information and tickets, please click the link below.
