Hinterland Festival of Literature and Arts 2026 - Kells

What to Expect

Now in its 14th year, Hinterland is an annual multi-disciplinary arts festival based in the heritage town of Kells, the spiritual home of the Book of Kells. The 2026 edition runs from Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 June and presents more than 70 events spanning literature, history, journalism, film, comedy, music, and visual arts. Key arts events include the Kells TypeTrail outdoor exhibition (theme ‘Process’), hands-on printing workshops at the newly restored Kells Printing Works, plein air painting workshops at Killyconny Bog, and a Lit Crawl on Sunday evening. Award-winning broadcaster Kirsty Wark is among the named speakers.

Good to Know

• Dates: 25 to 28 June 2026, Kells, Co. Meath.

• Tickets for individual events available at hinterland.ie; box office at BOOK MARKet Cafe in Kells from 2 June.

• Some events (including the TypeTrail) are free.

• Children’s programme included; family-friendly events throughout the weekend.

Getting There

Kells is served by Bus Eireann routes from Dublin (Busaras) and Navan. The town centre is compact and most festival venues are within walking distance of each other.