Invertopia - The Spineless Wonders Festival

Invertopia, a new festival dedicated to Ireland's insects and other invertebrates, will be hosted at Russborough House, Blessington, from 21 to 23 August 2026.

Organised by microWild CLG, the festival brings together scientists, conservationists and families for a weekend exploring the smaller side of Irish wildlife — the pollinators, beetles, woodlice, moths and other invertebrates that underpin the country's ecosystems but rarely get the spotlight. Invertopia is run in partnership with Wicklow County Council, the National Biodiversity Data Centre, and Trinity College Dublin.

With talks, workshops, and activities covering insect senses, insect art, the wisdom of woodlice, moth trapping, pond dipping, habitat making, and a full-day bioblitz, there will hardly be time to take a breath during this jam-packed weekend of incredible invertebrates. The weekend will be peppered with special guests from the world of Ireland's insects and invertebrates.

"With the climate and biodiversity crises we find ourselves in, it's more important than ever that children find connection with the natural world and its non-human inhabitants. This festival will give them an opportunity to learn about, and come face-to-face with some of Ireland's most amazing and overlooked animals," said Brian Murray, founder of microWild CLG and Invertopia.

The festival is aimed at families with primary school-aged children and takes place across the grounds of Russborough House, a Palladian estate in the heart of west Wicklow.

Tickets are available from https://invertopia2026.eventbrite.ie

Use discount code INVERT20 for a 20% reduction on the ticket price.

** Suitable for Families with Primary School-aged Children **

Invertopia isn't just a festival; it's a completely immersive weekend journey into the microcosmos. Step into an environment where the smallest things receive the biggest focus. We know that insects and invertebrates are the foundation of all ecosystems and we want to celebrate that by sharing our passion with you.

Join dozens of like-minded families as we explore the world of insects and invertebrates through walks, talks, workshops, hands-on activities, and engaging entertainment. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event that you won't regret attending.

With many of Ireland's top insect and invertebrate experts on hand, no question will go unanswered by our amazing team of scientists, entomologists, and invertebrate enthusiasts.

As many activities start early or finish late, we have camping on site and would recommend you could join us for the entire weekend.