KW26 Kavanagh Poetry Award and Festival Keynote

The Patrick Kavanagh Centre in association with the Patrick Kavanagh Society are delighted to announce the opening night event of the annual Kavanagh Weekend 2026. With great excitement we can announce Anne Waldman and Adrian Dunbar will deliver this year’s keynote speech. The Patrick Kavanagh Lecture is an annual highlight which has previously been delivered by leading names in arts and culture, including Seamus Heaney, President Michael D Higgins, Antoinette Quinn and Evelyn Conlon amongst others. The keynote will be followed by a conversation between Adrian Dunbar and Anne Waldman.

Since its inception in 1971, the Patrick Kavanagh Poetry Award has been a crucial milestone for emerging Irish poets on their journey towards recognition and publication. We are delighted to continue this tradition of support. This year’s adjudicator, acclaimed poet Victoria Kennefick, will announce the winner of the 54th annual Patrick Kavanagh Poetry Award. The 2026 edition of ‘The Monsters Back’ a pamphlet publication showcasing a selection of these entries will be available to purchase on the night.

Once complete the audience will be invited to participate in a Procession of Light led by The Armagh Rhymers through the village all the way to The Patrick Kavanagh Centre, wherein a very special late night concert will take place; Unreal Cities presents “Kavanagh and The Beats”.

Friday 25th September 2026 Round Tower Church, Doors from 7pm (guests required to be seated by 7.30pm)

Tickets: €15