Open book as literary festival launches in Caffrey’s Lounge

All the pages were full and the books were open when the inaugural Mullingar Literary Festival was launched in Caffrey’s Lounge on Mount Street on Friday evening, which was Culture Night 2024.

“We were concerned that we might not have drawn a crowd due to the incredible amount of diverse and entertaining events going on in the town on Culture Night,” said Don Mortell, public relations officer for the festival, “but I think even we were blown away by the turnout on the night.

“The number of talented writers and interested people who attended on the night is proof positive that Mullingar is now not only ready – but hungry – for our own literary festival.

“Just to think that the great man himself, James Joyce, some 100 years before, had walked the boards where we now stand – well that definitely would send a shiver up the spine of any book lover. It’s incredible.”

Lawrence Meehan, committee chair, and the other members of the committee have plenty of ideas for July 2025, when the event is to take place. They promise it’s going to be fun and something new and refreshing. “If tonight’s opening event is any measure of how the Mullingar Literary Festival will go, then... wow!” said Don.

The Mullingar Literary Festival will take place from Friday July 4 to Sunday July 6, 2025.

For further information, contact Don on 087 6116883 or email donmortell@gmail.com and look out for Mullingar Literary Festival in the papers and online for information updates.