Perhaps one of the most anticipated events in the world of fine writing each year is the Pelikan Hubs. It’s a rare opportunity for people who love pens, inks, and paper to come together and share their passion. Since it started in 2014, the event has grown to include roughly 220 cities in 47 countries. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing, however. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a two-year hiatus, and there were concerns about the event’s future when Pelikan International sold the stationery division to the French owned Hamelin group. Those concerns were for nought it seems as it’s been confirmed that Pelikan Hubs 2024 will go ahead as usual. The banner for this year’s event showcases the 2024 Edelstein Ink Of The Year, Golden Lapis, which is usually a highlight at these gatherings. Pelikan values feedback from attendees, and it seems that some welcome adjustments have been made to the registration process. Keep reading to find out how you can register yourself and your city for this year’s event.
The upcoming Hubs event will be on Friday, September 27, 2024, at 6:30pm local time. That is around the same date as last year’s event. Pelikan is working hard to spread the word. If you joined last year, you should have got an email announcing the event and detailing how to register. You can also find that information on Pelikan’s websites and social media outlets. Invariably people miss the registration deadline every year, so help spread the word. For a city to qualify as a Hub, it needs at least seven registered participants. When you register, you can join an established city or nominate your own. If too few people register for a Hub, Pelikan will let you know and you can register for another location nearby if available.
This year’s registration process appears to be a bit simpler than prior. First off, signups will run from Thursday, May 23rd to Monday, June 24th. That is a big improvement from last year’s two-week window. Everyone interested must apply during this time. Registration can be found online using the link below. The form is simple, asking for your name, email, and preferred Hub’s location. This is much more streamlined than last year’s process. Once complete, you will get a confirmation email that allows you to edit your selections or even cancel your registration up until the June 24th deadline.
You can also apply for the Hub Master position during registration. The Hub Master serves as the local contact for a city’s Hub, organizing the venue and keeping the local group informed. Those interested in this role need to include their address and why they want to be Hub Master on the registration form. Once Pelikan has gathered all the registrations and selected the Hub Masters, it will be up to the Hub Masters to connect with the attendees regarding the local event specifics.
A word about being a Hub Master might be useful for those thinking about taking on the role. I’ve been to all eight of my local Hubs held so far and have been the Hub Master for four of them. The hardest part of the role, in my opinion, is finding a place that can accommodate everyone who’s signed up. Historically, Pelikan’s guidance suggested that the event had to be near the city center and not in a place of worship but those were the only restrictions. All sorts of venues such as pen shops, parks, libraries, and restaurants have been utilized. Each city has its own challenges, but the ones with the most people can be the toughest to arrange. There is no budget for this event, and a free and suitable space can be hard to find. I tell you this not to dissuade you but to help save on frustration down the line. It’s also the Hub Master’s job to keep the local attendees updated about the event and to give out the swag provided by Pelikan. In the past, these freebies have included pen holders, cases, notebooks, and ink. Pelikan wants people to take photos and share them on social media using the hashtag #Pelikanhubs. This is a great way to keep up with the event, even if you can’t be there in person.
As a longtime attendee, I want to emphasize how worthwhile this event is. Each Hub has its own unique vibe, but they all offer a great opportunity to explore our shared passion. Check out my recap of last year’s Philadelphia event to get a taste. You don’t have to own or even like Pelikan’s products to join in. I’ve met many people who were simply curious about the event or thinking about getting their first Pelikan. At every Hub I’ve been to, there has been a fantastic variety of pens on display. While Pelikan organizes the main structure, you can truly feel that this is an event for all fans of fine writing, mainly because it is organized by the fans. Come to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and take some time to admire pens and inks. I’m excited about what the Philadelphia Hub has in store this year, and I genuinely hope that everyone who wants to take part can join in. Many thanks to Pelikan and Hamelin for recognizing the value of keeping the Hubs going.
For all inquiries regarding the event, please feel free to reach out to Pelikan at;
I registered successfully. I doubt I can go as I am solo caregiver to my Mom. She is currently in the hospital with a broken femur above her knee. She is non-weight bearing for 8–12 weeks. I want her to heal and be at home again.
I’m sorry to hear of your mother’s infirmity. I hope that she heals well and without complication. I do hope that an opportunity presents itself for you to attend. Best of luck and well wishes for you and your mom.
For the second time in the last few years, the date of the Pelikan Hubs conflicts with the Dallas Pen Show. Usually, they are a week apart, which makes it easier for those involved with the show to attend the Hub.
I’m not sure how they select the date. Over the 9 hubs thus far, 1 was in June, 1 was in November, and 7 have been in late September. Just bad luck that it aligns with the pen show calendar this year. It would be good feedback for Pelikan such that they might consider it in the future.