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This year’s Red Line Book Festival from October 13th to 19th has a thrilling crime strand and a peek at the paranormal with over 40 events and writing workshops across several venues such as Rathfarnham Castle, Clondalkin Round Tower, Parthalán Place, Rathcoole Courthouse and more.
Highlights of the festival include ‘Chasing the Dark: Encounters with the Supernatural’ with author Ben Machell in conversation with author Sophie White on Friday, October 17th at 8.30 pm at The Civic Theatre, with a gripping journey through ghost sightings, psychic phenomena, and the chilling case files of renowned paranormal investigator Tony Cornell.
On Wednesday, October 15th, at 7 pm at County Library Tallaght, join us for an evening with Gill Perdue, author of ‘The Night I Killed Him. Gill will chat with author Amanda Cassidy about her career, writing crime fiction, and her latest novel.
On Monday, October 13th at 7.30 pm at Rue Red, join the festival for ‘Writing the Supernatural’ with authors Sarah Maria Griffin, Courtney Smyth, Heather Davey and Deirdre Sullivan. Together, they’ll discuss their books, their careers, and what it’s like to write stories that explore the strange, the otherworldly, and the supernatural.
For a new perspective on death and the Irish Funeral, join Ruth Scott on Monday, October 13th at 7 pm at Clondalkin Round Tower Visitor Centre as she talks to Irish funeral director David McGowan about his new book ‘A Life Among the Dead’ and shares stories from his journey, revealing the profound and sometimes humorous realities of life, loss and family.
Further highlights of The Red Line Book Festival include a unique celebration of Jane Austen with Bridget Jones creator, Helen Fielding and ‘Longbourn’ author Jo Baker; insights from Booker Prize-winning author Paul Lynch and a reflection on Hector Ó hEochagáin’s life, career and passion for the Irish language.
Those with a keen eye on politics will enjoy Gavan Reilly’s exploration of The Secret Life of Leinster House, while award-winning authors Roisín O’Donnell and Xiaolu Guo invite audiences into their creative worlds, sharing experiences from their remarkable writing journeys.
Now in its 14th year, The Red Line Book Festival has grown to become one of the highlights of the cultural calendar. It is a platform for dialogue, imagination, and diverse yet shared experiences and a time where readers and writers meet. From engaging discussions with authors to exciting workshops and performances, this festival creates a space for reflection, imagination, and community
The Red Line Book Festival also fosters and showcases local artistic talent and a five-week programme, led by illustrator in residence Celina Buckley, will culminate in a vibrant exhibition at Ballyroan Library from October 13th-18th. Young artists and their families are also encouraged to explore their creativity in Draw Along sessions with Owen Churcher and Niamh Sharkey.
The festival’s Family Fun Day returns to Tallaght’s cultural quarter in and around Parthalán Place on Saturday, October 18th, and promises to be a day of literary creativity and fun for all ages. Other activities include illustration workshops, storytelling sessions, make-up workshops, as well as live music, creative events, children’s entertainment, face painting, balloon modelling, strolling characters – Spiderman, Mr Bump, Gru and Minion.
The prestigious Red Line Book Festival Poetry Competition attracts hundreds of entries from all across Ireland annually. Award-winning poet Aifric Mac Aodha will judge the competition. The shortlist will be announced on Wednesday, 1st October 2025, with the winner announced during this year’s Red Line Book Festival on Wednesday, October 15th at Castletymon Library.
Accessibility and inclusion are central to the festival and, this year, Irish sign language interpretation will be provided at select events, while sensory spaces will cater for children with additional needs at family events. Transport options are also being provided from libraries to select events.