Mayo's Wild Atlantic Words literary festival postponed

This year’s Wild Atlantic Words literary festival has been postponed, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Castlebar-based festival, which was to take place in October, had a high profile line-up that included internationally acclaimed author Sally Rooney, former President of Ireland Mary McAleese and former UK prime minister David Cameron.

Unfortunately, organisers have had to postpone all scheduled events due to the ongoing pandemic and restrictions.

The winners of this year’s Wild Atlantic Words short story competition, judged by Lisa McInerney and sponsored by Bridge St., Castlebar, will now be revealed on October 10 on the festival’s website, www.wildatlanticwords.ie.

Festival chairperson, Kathryn Brennan said: “While we are disappointed that this year’s festival is not going ahead, ultimately, the health and wellbeing of our guests and the wider community led us to this decision.

"We are very hopeful that the festival will make a safe return next year.”

Founded in 2016, the Wild Atlantic Words literary festival aims to celebrate the literary heritage of our rugged coastline over several days of readings, recitals, debates and reflection, while also acknowledging our new and emerging writers.