Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council approved support for the Jaipur Literature Festival's Island of Ireland edition. The council's economic development and regeneration committee agreed to the involvement at a meeting on Tuesday.

The festival will visit Armagh City on 26-27 May 2026. Events include a concert at the Market Place Theatre with Indian and local artists, a reception at the Archbishop's Palace, and workshops at the Robinson Library. An evening event with writers and commentators will follow at the Market Place Theatre.

Brian Johnston, the council's head of tourism, arts and culture, told the committee that organisers approached the council in November. He noted the festival plans to shift from Belfast to Armagh City, Dundalk and Dublin. Johnston said the venues suit the programme and the council can provide marketing, promotion and technical support from existing budgets.

The festival opens in Belfast on 22-24 May with Ulster University. It continues to Dundalk on 27 May and ends in Dublin on 29-31 May at St Patrick's Cathedral and Trinity College Dublin. Organisers selected Armagh for its historical role in peace and reconciliation.

Council officers hosted visitors from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Teamwork Arts. The visitors viewed the Market Place Theatre, Archbishop's Palace and Robinson Library.

DUP Councillor Scott Armstrong proposed approval. Alliance Councillor Joy Ferguson seconded the motion.