THE BINDING
Connecting the pages of a global creative community
A single page can tell a story.
But it takes a binding to turn many pages into a book.
The Binding is a new international literary and creative festival taking place in Longford, Ireland. Founded by Little Beetle Press and developed with the support of Weronika's Events and Visit Longford, it brings together writers, illustrators, poets, musicians and other creatives through a unique combination of online and in-person events.
Based in the heart of Ireland, the festival creates opportunities for local and national creatives to connect in person, while its international online programme ensures that distance is never a barrier to participation. Whether joining from Longford, Kyiv, Melbourne or anywhere in between, participants are invited to exchange ideas, build meaningful connections, inspire one another and grow together as part of a global creative community.
Our Mission
As a children's publishing house founded by Ukrainian author Halyna Budilova in Ireland, Little Beetle Press has always believed that stories can build bridges between cultures, generations and communities. The Binding is a natural extension of that mission – creating opportunities for meaningful international connections through creativity.
From Longford to the world, and from the world back to Longford, we invite creatives to share ideas, learn from one another and become part of a growing international community.
Through The Binding, we hope to create a welcoming space where emerging and established creatives can find inspiration, exchange knowledge and form connections that continue long after the festival ends.
Festival Format
The first chapter of the festival begins online.
The Binding – PenPals Edition (Online)
An international creative exchange programme designed for participants from around the world. Selected participants will take part in: * Online mentor-led gathering * Creative networking opportunities * International exchange of ideas and experiences
The Binding Festival (In Person)
A two-day festival in Longford, Ireland featuring: * Author talks * Panel discussions * Workshops * Readings * Networking opportunities * Community events * Creative activities
Who Can Participate?
The festival welcomes: * Writers * Illustrators * Poets * Musicians * Storytellers * Publishers * Educators * Creative facilitators * Emerging creatives * Established professionals If you create, inspire or tell stories, The Binding is for you.
Why Join?
* Meet creatives from around the world * Expand your professional network * Discover new perspectives * Exchange ideas and experiences * Find future collaborators * Be part of a growing international creative community
Participation Opportunities
Online participant
Apply to join the online PenPals Edition programme. It’s international online creative exchange bringing together writers, illustrators, poets, musicians and other creatives from different countries. The aim is to create meaningful connections, encourage creative conversations and open the door to future collaborations.
Applications are open until 31 August 2026.
Timeline
July–August 2026
Applications open for The Binding – PenPals Edition
31 August 2026
Application deadline
September 2026
Participant selection and programme announcement
November 2026
The Binding Festival takes place in Longford, Ireland
Get Involved
Applications are now open for The Binding – Pen Pals Edition.
Interested in participating as a participant, speaker, mentor, partner, or sponsor? Fill out the application form.
Have questions? Contact us at: info@littlebeetlepress.com
