Uncover a new side of Dublin during your winter break with these unique events

Brought to you by Fáilte Ireland

Book lovers unite – it's time to discover Dublin's rich literary culture with these fascinating events.

Joyce, Swift, Wilde, Rooney – Dublin has been the hub for many of the country's most famous writers. Our literary scene is legendary, and, this winter, Dublin is set to host a plethora of exciting events centred on books and literature.

As you plan your next short break in Dublin this winter, we've put together a number of literary-inspired events and activities to ensure you can make the most of the city's rich offerings during your short city break. Add them to your Winter in Dublin itinerary and prepare to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural offering.

Jonathan Swift Festival
November 18th-28th

Follow in the footsteps of a Dublin-born literary great as the Jonathan Swift Festival celebrates 300 years since the publication of Gulliver's Travels. This 10-day programme invites visitors to explore Swift's legacy through a plethora of ways, including storytelling events, a night tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral and a birthday bash singalong in honour of the man himself.

As a lot of the action is centred around St. Patrick's Cathedral, this presents a prime opportunity to explore the surrounding Dublin 8 neighbourhood. Check out Two Pups for brunch and a coffee, ramble down the historic Meath and Francis Streets, and pop into Drop Dead Twice for a pint.

Dublin Literary Tour
Various dates throughout the Dublin Book Festival, Central Plaza

Once you've followed in Swift's footsteps, prepare to broaden your literary horizons even further with Pat Liddy's Dublin Literary Tour. Your expert guide will lead you through Georgian Dublin, and Trinity College Quarter, awakening the history's strong tradition of writing as you delve into the works of Joyce, Beckett, Yeats, Wilde and Le Fanu.

Keep the literary theme strong throughout your short break and check out the Bestseller on Dawson Street. Café by day and wine bar by evening, this charming spot is the perfect place to take a breather and enjoy a cosy read in the city.

Dublin Book Festival
4th-8th November

Another literary event that deserves pride of place on your Dublin itinerary is the Dublin Book Festival. Across five glorious days, the city will play host to talks, workshops and tours. Hear from authors, chat with publishers and take a deep dive into a range of genres, from science fiction to spoken word.

Many of the events are set to take place in the Royal Irish Academy of Music, so while you're in the area, make sure you check out some of the excellent food offerings nearby. Arrive early at Bread 41 and enjoy their famed sourdough, or check out il Valentino Bakery & Café for an espresso and a pastry.

A Storytelling Trail: Winter Through Dublin
November-February

Combine your love for folklore with your passion for food on this unique winter tour. Across three hours, your guide will awaken tales of fairies, legends and Irish mythology as you dip in and out of Dublin's historic pubs. At each stop, you'll also get to enjoy thoughtful pairings that have been selected to complement the fascinating stories you'll hear along the way.

Need another literary-inspired coffee spot to add to your winter break agenda? Check out the café in Books Upstairs. After perusing the shelves, head upstairs and enjoy a bite to eat and a cuppa as you read the latest in your collection.

Winter in Dublin is a celebration of the capital at its very best. From cultural festivals to walking tours the city comes alive this winter with a plethora of events and activities to make your break even brighter. Plan your Winter in Dublin break now at visitdublin.com.