EventsImeachtaí

Listed in chronological order Liostaithe in ord croineolaíoch
All event locations are wheelchair accessible
Events marked with this symbol will be Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreted, supported by CKAN.

The Annalist of Ballitore: Mary Leadbeater in Conversation

On the two-hundredth anniversary of her death, Quaker annalist, poet and humanitarian Mary Leadbeater (Mary Linehan) talks to writer John MacKenna about her life, her writing and her memories of the 1798 rebellion

Venues:

Athy Library
Thursday 01.10.2026, 7 pm - Book

Naas Library
Saturday 03.10.2026, 3.30 pm - Book

Ballitore Library
Sunday 04.10.2026, 3 pm - Book

WhenCathain: As above
WhereÁit: As above
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Use booking links above

A Quiet Love: Film Screening and Q&A with producer Anne Heffernan

Three Deaf couples, three love stories. John & Agnes-a mixed religion, long-married Deaf couple-share their experiences of living through the Troubles. Michelle & Kathy open up about life as a same sex couple, their IVF journey, and their experiences as parents to both hearing and Deaf daughters. Finally, Deaf boxer Seán and his hearing partner Deyanna reflect on an impossible decision Seán is faced with.

This remarkable, moving documentary-the first feature produced in Irish sign language-is a celebration of these three couples and their often extraordinary experiences. While the couples all openly discuss the challenges they’ve faced over the years (and decades), it is ultimately a film about resilience, belonging and - most importantly - love.

WhenCathain: Friday 02.10.2026 | 7pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre
Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Introduction to Essay Writing with Writer in Residence Ian Maleney

This workshop will give attendees a chance to engage with and explore the literary essay. Together, we'll look at some examples of different types of essay, investigate where the borders of the form might lie, and ask how essay writing can adapt to cover memoir, biography, journalism, criticism, and so much more. Attendees need have no previous experience of writing. This will be an open, lightly guided discussion—just bring your curiosity.

WhenCathain: Saturday 03.10.2026 | 10.30am
WhereÁit: Naas Library and Cultural Centre Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

Reimagined Poetry: Workshop for Teens

Take a familiar story and transform it into a poem with a unique twist. Based on Ruth’s debut novel Shorelines, this workshop is great for exploring poetic techniques, developing your voice as a poet, and creating a poem with a lens unique to you.

For ages 13 - 18

WhenCathain: Saturday 03.10.2026 | 10.30am
WhereÁit: Naas Library and Cultural Centre Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

Spoken Word Workshop

Would you like to become part of Irelands fastest growing community of wordsmiths? In our workshop we will help you find your own voice and the words to let the world know what you’re passionate about.

Release your words and your voice with us. Come be a part of Kildare Readers Festival and release the poet in you.

David Hynes and Anna D of The Poetry Kiln have appeared on every stage in the country from literary festivals to music festivals to theatres to international embassies.

A whole world waits outside your door.

For ages 15+ years

WhenCathain: Saturday 03.10.2026 | 12pm
WhereÁit: Naas Library and Cultural Centre Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

My Life in the Saddle: Barry Geraghty in conversation with Donn McClean

One of the great jumps rider in Irish racing history, Barry Geraghty chats with Donn McClean about his life and career, recounting some memorable days aboard the equine greats he was fortunate to partner, including Moscow Flyer and Sprinter Sacre.

Donn McClean has ghost written six racing biographies and is a presenter and analyst with Racing TV.

WhenCathain: Sunday 04.10.2026 | 11am
WhereÁit: The Silken Thomas, Kildare Town Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

An Tolg Liteartha

Mórimeacht liteartha na Gaeilge ag a gcuirfidh an sárchraoltóir Tristan Rosenstock ó RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltacht agallamh ar bhuaiteoirí Ghradaim Foilsitheoireachta an Oireachtais 2026 – Gradam Uí Shuilleabháin (Leabhar na Bliana don Léitheoir Fásta), Gradam Réics Carló (Leabhar na Bliana don Léitheoir Óg) agus Gradam de Bhaldraithe (Leabhar na Bliana do Shaothar Aistrithe go Gaeilge ó theanga eile).

Is mór an ónóir na gradaim seo a ghnóthú agus labhróidh na buaiteoirí le Tristan maidir leis an aistear cruthaitheach a thug go dtí an buaicphointe seo iad ag a bhfuil ardmholadh agus ardmheas á mbaint amach acu. Labhróidh criticeoirí liteartha ó Ollscoil Mhá Nuad le Tristan chomh maith ar na leabhair a bhuaigh agus ar litríocht chomhaimseartha na Gaeilge.

Cuirfidh ceol traidisiúnta den scoth ar fáil mar chuid den mhórócáid. Craolfar An Tolg Liteartha 2026 ar RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta níos déanaí sa bhliain.

Arna eagrú ag Leabharlanna Chill Dara i gcomhar le hOllscoil Mhá Nuad, leis an Oireachtas agus le RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.

WhenCathain: Dé Máirt 06.10.2026 | 7pm
WhereÁit: Naas Library and Cultural Centre Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

The Miami Showband Massacre: Memory, Truth and Legacy

In this intimate conversation, Stephen Travers sits down with Frank Shouldice to discuss his book The Bass Player: Surviving the Miami Showband Massacre —a deeply personal account of a night that changed everything, and the decades of personal struggle that followed. Travers reflects on survival amid senseless violence, the emotional and moral weight of memory, and the long pursuit of truth in the shadow of The Troubles. As a journalist and as a producer/director with the RTÉ Investigations Unit, Frank Shouldice has the necessary skills and expertise to create a space for a powerful dialogue on justice, resilience and reconciliation, as Stephen Travers not only confronts the past, but explores the possibility of healing and peace beyond it.

WhenCathain: Wednesday, 07.10.2026 | 7pm
WhereÁit: Naas Library and Cultural Centre Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

The Poetry of Living: Reflections on Writing and Resilience

Join us for an insightful evening with Dearbhla Mescal (Finding Joy) and Jan Brierton (Everybody is a Poem; What Day Is It? Who Gives a F**k?), in conversation with Derek Coyle of Carlow College St. Patrick’s. Together, they explore writing, resilience, and finding meaning in everyday life—an honest, engaging discussion not to be missed.

WhenCathain: Thursday 08.10.2026 | 7pm
WhereÁit: Naas Library and Cultural Centre Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online

Kildare Readers Festival Retrospective Photographic Exhibition

Step behind the scenes of Kildare Readers Festival with a captivating retrospective exhibition by festival photographer Ger Holland. Discover the people, stories and unforgettable moments that have shaped the festival through striking portraits of celebrated writers including Donal Ryan and Liz Nugent, alongside candid images of Catherine Corless, the late Tomi Reichental, and other memorable guests. The exhibition also pays tribute to much-missed contributors, including Manchán Magan and Jennifer Johnston, and revisits the ever-popular 10 Books You Should Read events.

With 13 years’ experience documenting Ireland’s literary scene, Ger Holland offers a unique visual celebration of the festival’s rich history and enduring spirit.

McKenna Gallery
Wednesday 30 September – Saturday 10 October
Monday – Friday 9:30am-5pm | Saturday 10am – 1pm

WhenCathain: Friday 09.10.2026 | 6pm (Official Opening)
WhereÁit: McKenna Gallery, Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Exhibition Details

Landscape, Recollection and Transformation

Join Lesley Bond and Miriam Mulcahy for a compelling discussion on landscape, history, and personal transformation. From life on the remote Great Blasket Island to a journey along the Beara Breifne Way, both authors explore how place and the past shape identity.

Blending memoir, history, and reflection, this conversation will consider what it means to immerse yourself in the land—and return changed.

WhenCathain: Friday 09.10.2026 | 7pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

10 Books with Louise Nealon and Katriona O’Sullivan

Join us for the, much anticipated, Kildare Reader’s Festival’s 10 Books, a unique and personal event with acclaimed writers Louise Nealon (Snowflake, Everything That Is Beautiful) and Katriona O’Sullivan (Poor, Hungry). Sharing the stories behind the books that influenced them most, they’ll reflect on reading, writing, and the moments that shape a life. Expect warmth, insight, and plenty of inspiration for your own reading list.

WhenCathain: Saturday 10.10.2026 | 10.30am
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Debut Authors

Join us for this exciting discussion featuring four fresh new voices in Irish fiction: Patrick Freyne (having just published his debut work of fiction Experts in a Dying Field) will be in conversation with Jennifer Bray (The Lies Between Us), Djamel White (All Them Dogs), and Edie May Hand (Dirtpickers). The panel, in conversation with writer and critic Eoghan Smith, will discuss what drove them to take the leap of faith and publish their debut fiction tomes, their inspirations, and the challenges that they faced.

WhenCathain: Saturday 10.10.2026 | 1pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Food, Family & Tradition: A Conversation in Cooking

Join us for a lively, flavour-filled afternoon celebrating traditional cooking with three beloved voices in Irish food. Baker and author Graham Herterich shares his passion for heritage recipes, while Eva Pau, fresh from her debut cookbook, and Orla Drumgoole of Irish Mammy Cooks bring the warmth, nostalgia, and practical wisdom of home cooking passed down through generations.

WhenCathain: Saturday 10.10.2026 | 3.30pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Behind the Bestsellers

Step behind the pages with three of Ireland’s bestselling authors—Sheila O’Flanagan, Carmel Harrington and Faith Hogan—for a lively evening of conversation with Sinéad Cuddihy, founder and host of the Tired Mammy Book Club on Instagram.

Discover the inspiration behind their beloved novels, the realities of the writing life, and the stories that shape their unforgettable characters. Warm, thoughtful and entertaining, this is a unique chance to hear directly from some of the most popular voices in contemporary fiction.

Join us for a relaxed celebration of storytelling, full of honesty, humour and the magic of books.

WhenCathain: Saturday 10.10.2026 | 6pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

The Perfect Crime

Step into the dark and fascinating world of crime writing with three of Ireland’s most acclaimed authors. John Banville, master of literary crime fiction and creator of the bestselling Quirke novels; Patricia Gibney, one of Ireland’s most popular crime writers and the author of the much-loved Detective Lottie Parker series; and Edel Coffey, whose compelling psychological thrillers have captivated readers nationwide, come together for a lively discussion on murder, mystery and the art of suspense.

In conversation with acclaimed author and broadcaster Fiona Sherlock, they will explore the enduring appeal of crime fiction, the craft of creating unforgettable characters, and why readers can never resist a good mystery.

Whether you are a devoted crime-fiction fan or simply curious about what drives writers to a life of crime on the page, this promises to be a captivating and thought-provoking event.

WhenCathain: Saturday 10.10.2026 | 8.15pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Little Wonders: Clay Animals in their Habitats Workshop

Explore the world of Puffin Rock! In this 45 minute workshop, Artist Kate Escolin will help you create your own 3D clay animals inspired by the world of Oona and Baba and create a cosy home for them.

For Ages 4-5

WhenCathain: Sunday 11.10.2026 | 10.30am
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Film Screening: Puffin Rock and the New Friends

Based on the award-winning TV series, Puffin Rock and the New Friends sees our family favourites, Oona, Baba, May and Mossy joined by a new cast of characters, as Isabelle, Phoenix and Marvin arrive on the island. It’s an action-packed story which celebrates our magnificent natural environment, and features themes of belonging, courage and friendship.

When the last Little Egg of the season disappears under mysterious circumstances, Oona and her new friends race against time to bring the Little Egg home before a big storm hits Puffin Rock and puts the entire island in danger.

Rated G

WhenCathain: Sunday 11.10.2026 | 12pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

The Faerie Isle Creative Workshop

Learn all about faerie lore, legend and facts about magical Irish faeries. From shapeshifters to selkies, tiny leprechauns to the enormous giant, Síne Quinn, author of The Faerie Isle: Tales and Traditions of Ireland's Forgotten Folklore will host a workshop with storytelling, drawing and writing on Irish faeries.

For Ages 8 +

WhenCathain: Sunday 11.10.2026 | 2.30pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.

Comic Book Creation Workshop

Bam! Pow! Have you ever wanted to create your own comics? Join Finding My Voice creator Aoife Dooley for a hands-on workshop that will guide you through everything you need to know to make excellent illustrated adventures. Perfect for fans of Bunny vs Monkey, Dog Man and Aoife’s own award-winning book, Frankie’s World. All materials will be provided.

For Ages 11-15

WhenCathain: Sunday 11.10.2026 | 4pm
WhereÁit: Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge Directions
How to AttendConas Freastal ar: Book Online*

*All events are free of charge, though booking is essential. Please note that a €1.50 charge will apply to online bookings made through the Riverbank website. However, you can avoid this charge completely by booking over the phone or in person.