Bloomsday and Beyond 2026 in Washington, D.C.

Every year on June 16th, Ireland and literary fans around the world tip their hats, often literally, to one of our most iconic literary figures. Bloomsday is a one-of-a-kind global literary celebration that sees fans of James Joyce and his ground-breaking novel Ulysses take to the streets in celebration of one epic day in 1904 Dublin. But it’s also become something more: a tribute to the written word and Ireland's rich literary tradition.

'Bloomsday and Beyond,' honours not only Joyce’s revolutionary storytelling, but all Irish writers, playwrights, novelists and all those who have helped make Ireland a literary force far beyond our small size.

From classic voices to contemporary trailblazers, Ireland’s literary culture continues to thrive, supported by a vibrant network of festivals, arts funding, and readers who strongly believe in the power of a good story. Read on to see how you can join in the global celebration - right here in D.C.

Fall in love with Irish literature this Bloomsday!

For the second year running, the Embassy is proud to partner with Politics and Prose to sponsor a 'Blind Date with an Irish Novel,' as part of the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's Global Book Giveaway. Buy one Irish novel in-store and receive a second surprise Irish novel for free to fall in love with.

This promotion is running throughout June (while supplies last!) at all three Politics and Prose locations in Washington, D.C.:

• Politics and Prose (5015 Connecticut Avenue NW)
• Politics and Prose at The Wharf (610 Water St SW)
• Politics and Prose at Union Market (1324 4th Street NE)

On Bloomsday (June 16th) at 1pm, join our friends at Politics and Prose for a mini-marathon reading of James Joyce’s Ulysses at their Connecticut Avenue location. Marathon readings of this modernist masterpiece can go on for days, but P&P’s little version will last just over an hour. Volunteer to read a short prepared portion of the novel as straight or as fulsome as you wish. The emphasis is on having fun, so don't worry about having to accurately pronounce names or placenames - Politics and Prose staff will provide a helpful guide.

Newcomers to Ulysses are especially welcome. Small spot prizes for all participants! This event is free and open to all, with first come, first serve seating. Learn more at https://politics-prose.com/bloomsday-2026.

Your next Irish read could be right around the corner. To celebrate Bloomsday and Beyond, we are hiding a selection of Irish books in Little Free Libraries across the D.C. area.

Keep an eye out on your next stroll, you might just find your next great Irish read around the corner!

Spot one? Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram (@irelandembusa) with the hashtag #BloomsdayAndBeyond—we would love to see where Irish literature finds a home in the District.