All of these conferences and workshops charge tuition, but some offer financial assistance. There are deadlines for applying for aid, so make sure you apply early.
While many conference have open registration, some have registration deadheightlines, especially those which include workshops with authors. Be sure to check Poets & Writers database for registration deadlines.
If you miss your ideal conference this year, don't worry. Many of these are annual events. Plan ahead!
Note: I continually update this page as conference schedules are published.
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Databases for Writing Conferences:
Poets & Writers has a well-organized list of conferences and residencies. You can search by event type, state, and admission.
Publishers Weekly keeps a list of key conferences and book fairs, worldwide. List is ordered chronologically.
Poets & Writers Local is an app that lets you search for conferences near you.
Shaw Guides lists local, regional, national and international writing conferences. Organized by month.
Writing Day Workshops are managed by, Chuck Sambuchino, longtime Writer's Digest editor, Writing Day Workshops are full-day “How to Get Published” writing events that happen all around the United States throughout the year.
List of Writer’s Conferences, Book Fairs and Festivals - extensive list of worldwide events organized by month, location, and type.
Related posts:
Valuable Tips for Pitching to an Agent or Editor
Getting an agent: Schmooze or you lose (How to find conferences in your area)
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Love Hurts: Writing the Break-up Poem. February 11, 2026: Online. The Sundress Academy for the Arts is excited to present “Love Hurts: Writing the Break-up Poem,” a workshop led by Amie Whittemore on Wednesday, February 11th from 6:00-7:30 PM EST. This event will be held over Zoom. Participants can access the event at tiny.utk.edu/sundress (password: sundress). While poetry has a reputation for expressing adoration, it’s also wonderful for expelling the bad energy broken love leaves behind. In this generative class, we’ll look at examples of breakup poems that demonstrate that breakups are as multifaceted as relationships: the sad breakup poem, the angry breakup poem, the regretful breakup poem. Through these poems, we can come to better understand our roles in these relationships that have ended and begin to find peace. After looking at some example poems, there will be time for writers to generate their own breakup poem(s), with individual lines shared in the chat, as time allows. While there is no fee to participate in this workshop, those who are able and appreciative may make donations directly to Amie Whittemore Venmo: @Amie-Whittemore
The Colrain Crucible. February 15, 2026: Online. A one-day, high-intensity manuscript-shaping session focused on selection, sequencing, and structural clarity. In this rigorous, generative environment, 4-6 poets with an in-progress manuscript (full-length or chapbook) bring pre-conference exercises into the crucible of close editorial scrutiny and real-time evaluation. Under the pressure of focused attention on these exercises, manuscripts reveal their strengths, weaknesses, and true organizing principles. You will leave with a newly clarified sense of your book’s core, what belongs, what doesn’t, and how your poems work — or fail to work — in sequence.
Related posts:
Valuable Tips for Pitching to an Agent or Editor
Getting an agent: Schmooze or you lose (How to find conferences in your area)
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JANUARY 2026
Key West Literary Seminar. January 8 – 11, 2026: Key West, Florida. Each year, the Key West Literary Seminar explores a particular literary theme. This year the theme is: The Novel.
Pacific University Master of Fine Arts in Writing Residency Writers Conference. Application deadline: November 15, 2025. January 8 - 18, 2026: Seaside, Oregon. Writers seeking to deepen their craft and expand their professional community are invited to attend the Residency Writers Conference together with MFA students, faculty and guest speakers. Join us for 10 full days of craft talks, workshops, panels, classes, readings and more featuring some of the best minds of the literary world. This residency is a rare opportunity to engage in sustained and meaningful conversation with others who share your passion for the art of writing.
Jaipur Literature Festival. January 15 - 19, 2026. Presentations, panels, readings, and music performances. In an uplifting celebration of the mind and heart, authors from the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Europe will take part in provocative conversations about life and society, economics and the arts, equity, freedom, and the care of our planet. In these critical times, the penetrating, intercultural dialogue exchanged speaks deeply to individuals and gives rise to the joy of community.
Writing By Writers GET THE LEAD OUT! January 16 - 18, 2026: Online. Th Each day will feature a craft talk by one of our faculty members and participants will split into small groups where they will dissect the art and craft of writing through lectures, writing exercises and class discussions. We won’t be reading and critiquing manuscripts, but rather closely examining elements of craft with the intention of allowing participants to see their work with deeper insight while also generating new material. Each participant will have the opportunity to work in a small group setting with all three faculty members. Whether you are just getting started or have projects that need new life, this workshop will offer inspiration and insight to take you to the next level.
Southern California Writers’ Conference (and Retreat). January 16 - 18, 2026: San Diego, CA. Faculty: 60+ working, professional authors of fiction, nonfiction & screen, editors & agents. "Founded and run by professional writers the SCWC provides veteran and emerging talent with authoritative guidance to help distinguish those manuscripts that are ready for market consideration." Limited to 150 conferees.
SCBWI In-Person Winter Conference 2026. January 16 - 18, 2026: NY, NY. Come and be inspired by renowned authors and illustrators, learn about the state of the children's book publishing industry from panels of agents, editors and art directors, dive deep into your craft with TWO three-hour Creative Labs, and get your work in front of industry professionals!
Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway. January 16 - 19, 2026, Atlantic City, New Jersey. A participant-focused writers’ conference. Advance your craft and energize your writing at the 30th annual Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway. Enjoy challenging and supportive workshops, insightful feedback and an encouraging community. Choose from workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, memoir, songwriting, playwriting and more.
TMW January Jumpstart. January 17 - 18, 2026: Oak Ridge, TN. We will have tracks in both Poetry and Fiction. Registration $150. Application deadline December 1, 2025.
Eckerd College Writers in Paradise Conference. January 17 -24, 2026: St. Petersburg, FL. Workshops, roundtables, panel discussions, manuscript consultation, Q&As, readings book signings, and receptions. Application deadline: November 1, 2025.
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Colrain Cold Read January 18, 2026: Online. An intimate, 5–6 poet one-day intensive built around an enactment of a real-time submission moment: a press editor reads your manuscript cold, in front of the small group, and thinks aloud—exactly as they would at their office desk. You’ll hear the real editorial questions (title/TOC, opening 5-10 pages, through-line, writing skill, structure, cohesiveness, style, etc), followed by concrete responses for all 5-6 manuscripts in the group as the editor responds to each, one by one. After the editor’s departure, a Colrain faculty member anchors interpretations and expectations so you leave with a realistic understanding of work to be done.Sunshine State Book Festival. January 23 - 24, 2026: Gainesville, Florida. "Outstanding authors from around Florida and the nation who write in many genres will gather at the beautiful Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall on January 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to sell books and talk about their work. Festivities include guest speakers, giveaways, storytelling, and a play." Admission is free.
Aspen Winter Words. January 28 - February 11, 2026: Aspen, CO and Online. This year’s Winter Words will be held in memory of longtime Aspen Words supporter Wally Obermeyer.
- January 28 @ Paepcke Auditorium: Susan Orlean, staff writer for The New Yorker and bestselling author of “The Orchid Thief” and “The Library Book.” Her most recent book is “Joyride: A Memoir.”
- February 4 @ Paepcke Auditorium: Lily King, award-winning author of six novels including “Writers and Lovers” and “Euphoria.” Her most recent novel is “Heart the Lover.”
- February 11 @ TACAW Tara Roberts, Award-winning National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence and memoirist brings untold histories to the surface through her global work documenting slave shipwrecks in her book “Written in the Waters.”
JANUARY 2025
Writing By Writers DRAFT. Application deadline: January 15, 2025: Boulder, CO. DRAFT is an intensive program for 15 writers who are committed to completing a novel, memoir, short story, or essay collection over the course of two years. Whether starting a first draft, or working through a new revision, this program is appropriate for writers who want a rigorous and supportive community throughout their process.
Colrain Classic. January 17 - 20, 2025: Online. "The Colrain Manuscript Classic is a highly focused, 3.5 day conference designed for poets with manuscripts in progress. The Classic features in-depth pre-conference work and candid, realistic evaluation and feedback from nationally-known poets, editors and publishers. In preparation, participants work at home on pre-conference assignments and then, in the workshop, review, arrange, and winnow their work based on the pre-conference work. In addition to the manuscript preparation workshop and editor sessions, there will be an editorial Q&A, and an after-conference strategy session." Will be conducted online.
JANUARY 2024
St. George Island Writers’ Retreat for Women. Jan 21 - 28, 2024: St. George, FL. Program Focus: Autobiography/Memoir, Fiction. Contact Perky Granger at PersisGranger@aol.com for further information and/or to have a registration form emailed to you.
FEBRUARY 2026
The Stowe Vermont Winter Writing Adventure. February 1 - 6, 2026: Stowe, VT. The Stowe Vermont Winter Writing Adventure is a week-long workshop with Pam Houston and Leigh Newman where writers will work with both faculty members to generate new work while snowshoeing, XC skiing, and exploring the beauty of New England in the wintertime. The workshop is limited to 20 participants to ensure an intimate setting, plus plenty of time to write and explore all the outdoor wonders Stowe has to offer.
Savannah Book Festival. February 5 - 8, 2026: Savannah, Georgia. Our four-day Festival takes place in Savannah’s Historic District against a backdrop of stunning historic buildings, cascading Spanish moss, and blooming Azaleas. Each year, over 9,000 people join us for three ticketed Headliner Address events and for our free Festival Saturday. Festival Saturday presentations take place in museums, churches, and theaters in and around the historic Telfair and Chippewa Squares in the heart of Downtown Savannah. Our lineup of nationally-recognized authors from wide-ranging genres give 30-minute solo presentations on their creative process, followed by a Q&A and book signing.
Online San Diego Writing Workshop. February 6 - 7, 2026: Online. "This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” online writing workshop. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the Online “San Diego” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation."
African-American Children's Book Fair. February 7, 2026: Philadelphia, PA. Meet over a dozen African-American children's book writers.
San Francisco Writers Conference. February 12 - 15, 2026: San Francisco, CA. Attendees will join with 100+ presenters and fellow writers from across the country and around the world at this year’s event. The SFWC events are consistently rated among the top writer’s conferences anywhere. "Our goal is to help writers become published authors as we help them become better at the craft and business of writing. The SFWC is also one of the friendliest conferences. Presenters this year will include bestselling authors, literary agents, editors, and publishers from major publishing houses. There will be experts on self-publishing, book promotion, platform building, social media, and author websites. The San Francisco Writers Conference has one of the largest faculties of any writer’s conference to ensure the best networking with the people who can help you get published."
The Colrain Crucible. February 15, 2026: Online. A one-day, high-intensity manuscript-shaping session focused on selection, sequencing, and structural clarity. In this rigorous, generative environment, 4-6 poets with an in-progress manuscript (full-length or chapbook) bring pre-conference exercises into the crucible of close editorial scrutiny and real-time evaluation. Under the pressure of focused attention on these exercises, manuscripts reveal their strengths, weaknesses, and true organizing principles. You will leave with a newly clarified sense of your book’s core, what belongs, what doesn’t, and how your poems work — or fail to work — in sequence.
Nonfiction Picture Books: Exploring Forms and Creative Approaches. February 17 - 19, 2026: Online. Explore the exciting world of nonfiction picture books! This course guides you through formats, styles, and strategies for bringing real-world topics to life for young readers.
Reflection and Refraction in Personal Narratives. February 17 – March 17, 2026: Online. How do our individual experiences reflect the systems within which we exist? In this generative workshop, we will learn the art of imitation, refraction and distortion in memoir and personal essays. Using Foucault’s Las Meninas as a foundation, we will read work from writers like Elizabeth Gilbert, Seo-Young Chu, Hilton Als and Paisley Rekdal, exploring topics from private investigation, to travel, trauma and the love of animals. The methods these writers use for sharing insights about our world will inspire us to write personal narratives from fresh perspectives. Writers of all levels are welcome. Come empty-handed or bring works-in-progress to revise. Limited to 12 participants.
What's Form Got to Do With It?: A Poetry Workshop. February 18 - March 18, 2026: Online. Even those who avoid it must admit: form gives our poems structure, tension, counterpoint and deeper meaning. In this supportive workshop, we will explore five traditional and contemporary forms, focusing on how a poem’s content is enhanced, challenged or complicated by its structure. Each week, we will explore poems by writers like Terrance Hayes, William Carlos Williams and Terisa Siagatonu, paying close attention to form and content. Generative prompts will provide the option to write a new poem in that week’s form or revise a previously-written poem into that form. Writers will leave this workshop with a deeper appreciation for formal potential, and with polished work any publisher would be excited to read. Beginning and experienced writers are welcome. Limited to 12 participants.
SCBWI: NOT YOUR GRANDMA'S NONFICTION! February 21, 2026: Online. Today's nonfiction is bold, engaging, and innovative! Attendees will take an in-depth look at what books are (and aren't) being published. We will explore how books cover the "What?" "So What?" and/or the "Now What?" of a topic. For the sake of time, the exemplars will be picture books, but the principles explored apply to all informational books. Registration closes February 18th.
Wild Seeds Writers Retreat. February 19 - 22, 2026: Brooklyn, NY. The Wild Seeds Writers Retreat (formerly the North Country Institute & Retreat for Writers of Color), a collaboration with the Center for Black Literature, the English Department at SUNY, Plattsburgh, and the Paden Institute and Retreat for Writers, provides a writing community where established and newly discovered writers of color can focus on the craft of writing and create cross-cultural conversations around the literature created by writers of the African diaspora. Deadline: January 9, 2026.
Big Sur Children's Writing Workshop. February 20-22, 2026: Monterey, CA. The Andrea Brown Literary Agency runs the Big Sur Children's Writing Workshop every winter with occasional offshoot conference locations. "Since 1997, we have brought in outstanding editors from the top publishing houses, both large and small, and successful authors to make up our experienced and giving faculty. We pride ourselves on an excellent faculty-to-attendee ratio and a weekend with ample opportunities for faculty/attendee interactions, both formal and informal. This workshop has been the source of many successful author/agent relationships and many publishing deals, including one for more than half a million dollars."
Tinker Mountain Winter Recharge. February 20 - 22, 2026: Online. The weekend begins with a social session on Friday evening and continues with workshops Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 to 4 p.m. Just the right amount of time to affirm your writing and to reset for the balance of winter and spring. Manuscript workshops, limited to 8 participants, give you an opportunity to receive feedback on your work from peers and your faculty mentor and learn what other writers are working on. Write now workshops, limited to 10 participants, allow you to immerse yourself in the craft of writing and generate new work without the pressure of preparing or reading manuscripts.
SCBWI San Diego: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Writing Children's Books with Irene Vázquez, Associate Editor. February 21, 2026: Online. As an Editor at Levine Querido - whose publishing house has long been a champion of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Children's books - Irene Vázquez will speak on how to maintain authenticity in writing and illustrating books with diverse characters and themes for Children and young adults. In addition, they will give a window into what gains have been made in the publishing industry and where the publishing world is headed in this area, as well as best steps to capture the attention of an Editor or Agent for your book and/or illustrations for Children. The 2026 San Diego Region DEI Grant recipients will be announced.
St. Augustine Author-Mentor Novel Workshop. February 24 - 27, 2026: St. Augustine, Florida. "The St. Augustine Author-Mentor Novel Workshop creates an intimate and professional environment that combines private meetings with small-group workshops, thus enabling aspiring authors to wisely approach the writing and publication of their novel. At the St. Augustine event, aspiring authors will:
1) Work one-on-one with top authors and savvy market professionals.
2) Apply advanced story and narrative technique to their novel-in-progress.
3) Hone and improve their writer voice and style.
4) Learn the necessary inside mechanics of the publishing business.
5) Leave the workshop with a detailed plan to work towards publication of their novel.
Group workshop sessions will be interspersed with agent and author consultations, workshop assignments, as well as consults with workshop leaders."
1) Work one-on-one with top authors and savvy market professionals.
2) Apply advanced story and narrative technique to their novel-in-progress.
3) Hone and improve their writer voice and style.
4) Learn the necessary inside mechanics of the publishing business.
5) Leave the workshop with a detailed plan to work towards publication of their novel.
Group workshop sessions will be interspersed with agent and author consultations, workshop assignments, as well as consults with workshop leaders."
Amelia Island Book Festival. February 28, 2026: Fernandina Beach, FL. During the Festival, Authors have opportunities to engage with over 1300 Readers in an up-close and personal way to showcase and sell their books. Readers will be able to engage with more than 100 exhibiting authors in a personal way about their work and what inspires them. There are numerous Author breakout presentations, including several led by New York Times best-selling authors, book signing session, food trucks, and a variety of activities designed to keep both Authors and Readers engaged, educated, and entertained through activities throughout the day.
SCBWI San Diego: Craft a Compelling First Chapter and Insightful Synopsis. February 28, 2026: Online. Agent Hillary Fazzari will be sharing hands-on editing strategies to polish First Chapters that hook agents, editors and readers, using examples of projects she personally represented and First Page submissions from attendees. You will also get an agents overview of the parameters and importance of a well-written synopsis when submitting novels – which more agent and editor submission guidelines are now requesting.
FEBRUARY 2025
The 2025 Las Vegas Writing Workshop. February 22, 2025: Las Vegas, NV. The 2025 Las Vegas Writing Workshop is a full-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing event in Las Vegas, NV on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
MARCH 2026
Association of Writers & Writing Programs Conference. March 4 - 7, 2026: Baltimore, Maryland. "The AWP Conference & Bookfair is an essential annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers. Each year more than 12,000 attendees join our community for four days of insightful dialogue, networking, and unrivaled access to the organizations and opinion-makers that matter most in contemporary literature. AWP’s is now the largest literary conference in North America."
Just Do It! Your Collaborative Support Group for Finishing Your Draft (Spring). March 4 - April 29, 2026: Online. This supportive program takes all creatives (nonfiction or fiction, picture books, novels, essays, and more) from goal-stating to finished drafts. Together, we’ll move through live sessions, writing prompts, studio dates, daily inspirations, check-ins, feedback, and more.
First Friday Book Talk & Reading with Katherine Wela Bogen. March 6, 2026: Online. Katherine Wela Bogen is “first, a storyteller; second, a scholar-activist; and third, a joyful little freak.” Her debut novel, Queering Him, chronicles the scalding-hot story of millennial enemies turned lovers Avra and Kieran. Described by BookLife Reveiws as "equal parts erotic, tender, and devastating, Bogen’s bold and biting debut explores bisexuality and first love in all its messy, nuanced glory."
The Texas Writing Workshop. March 6 - 7, 2026: Online. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total).
The Indiana Writing Workshop. March 7, 2026: Indianapolis, IN. This is a full-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing conference. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (150 total).
The South Carolina Writing Workshop. March 7, 2026: Charleston, SC. This in-person writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (125 total).
9th Annual Women In Publishing Summit. March 8-11, 2026: Online. The biggest online conference for women, and those who identify as women, in publishing. Our community and conference help aspiring and published authors and publishing professionals grow their businesses and expand their networks and skills. Both groups find the people they need to be—better together!
Get Away to Write - Florida. March 9 - 14, 2026: New Smyrna Beach, Florida. "Our retreats revolve around the belief that when writers leave behind the distractions of their busy lives to gather in an encouraging community, they are able to make important breakthroughs in their writing. Each workshop will offer craft discussion, writing prompts, writing time, feedback, motivation and inspiration. By spending the entire week in one workshop, you will venture deeper into your writing, making more progress than you thought possible. You may choose to spend the week working on your poetry or prose."
Write Stuff Writers Conference. March 12 - 14, 2026: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Workshops, Agent./Editor pitch sessions, marketing consults plus lunch and Keynote address, Book Fair, Flash Literature Writing Contest, Door Prizes. Featuring: Tiffany Yates Martin. Registration closes March 1.
The Gotham Writers Nonfiction Conference. March 21 - 22, 2026: NYC and via Zoom. Panels and Presentations (Day 1) — Take a peek behind the publishing curtain with eye-opening panels and presentations, all on Zoom. You can see the full breakdown on the conference schedule. These days are for people who are ready for publication or just gearing up to enter the publishing process.
The Gotham Writers Genre Fiction Conference. March 1 - 2, 2025: Zoom. There will also be at least two in-person pitching roundtable at the Gotham Writers Headquarters in NYC. The Gotham Writers Genre Fiction Writers Conference happens in March 2025, for writers of mystery, horror, and science fiction & fantasy books. There will be panels, presentations, and pitch sessions with agents.
Futurescapes. March 12 - 15, 2026. Workshop the first 3,500 words of your Novel; 7:1 Student-Faculty Ratio; Work with Top Agents & Authors in Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror; Our Faculty have won Hugo, Nebula, Newbery & World Fantasy Awards; Apply Early - Seating is Capped and Competitive.
2026 Carolina Writing Workshops. March 13 (Charlotte) and March 14 (Raleigh), 2026. "The workshops are both one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Ossabaw Writer’s Retreat. March 13 - 18, 2026: Ossabaw Island, GA. Work with one of our critically acclaimed writers in a workshop limited to five qualified participants. Each day, participants will bring manuscripts of their work-in-progress to their assigned workshop group where they will read, discuss and receive feedback about their projects from fellow participants and the assigned group leader. Workshop manuscripts should be limited to 12 pages poetry/16-20 pages fiction or non-fiction. Application deadline: February 15.
Kansas City Writing Workshop. March 14, 2026: Kansas City. This is a special one-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing workshop at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Kansas City Plaza. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Bay to Ocean Writers Conference. March 14, 2026: Wye Mills, Maryland. Sponsored by the Eastern Shore Writers Association. BTO features six tracks with thirty-one sessions to help writers of all levels develop their craft, edit, publish, and market their writing. The sessions, all 50-minutes in length, are carefully designed to help attendees generate solid writing, hone their craft, and ask pointed questions of published and award-winning presenters about the process.
Colrain Cold Read. March 15, 2026: Online. An intimate, 5–6 poet one-day intensive built around an enactment of a real-time submission moment: a press editor reads your manuscript cold, in front of the small group, and thinks aloud—exactly as they would at their office desk. You’ll hear the real editorial questions (title/TOC, opening 5-10 pages, through-line, writing skill, structure, cohesiveness, style, etc), followed by concrete responses for all 5-6 manuscripts in the group as the editor responds to each, one by one. After the editor’s departure, a Colrain faculty member anchors interpretations and expectations so you leave with a realistic understanding of work to be done.
Breakout Novel Intensive. March 17 - April 21, 2026: Online. Included are new or revised units on story discovery, strong voice, standout characters, the inner journey, compelling story worlds, beautiful writing, creating resonance and finding meaning in both story and process. Breakout fundamentals are also covered: strong characters, inner conflict, personal stakes, plot layers, powerful scenes, micro-tension, practical theme techniques and much more.
Beall Poetry Festival. March 18 - 20, 2026: Waco, TX. Baylor University’s Beall Poetry Festival is a three-day celebration of contemporary poetry, with poetry readings, a panel discussion, and the Virginia Beall Ball Lecture on Contemporary Poetry. The festival is supported by the John A. and DeLouise McClelland Beall Endowed Fund, established in 1994 by Mrs. Virginia B. Ball to honor her parents and to encourage the writing and appreciation of poetry.
Algonkian Novel Retreat. March 18 - 27, 2026: Algonkian Park, Virginia. "In keeping with the spirit of this place and the goals of this retreat, you can be as goal-oriented or as hesitant in approach as you wish. You can show us your manuscript, improve your skills, clear your head, have your work read by our writer mentors, whatever works for you, whatever helps you grow and discover your vision as a writer. You discuss with us ahead of time via the Algonkian Writer Retreat Application the goals you wish to accomplish, and we'll work with you to make it happen. Do you desire a review of your short stories or flash fiction? A line edit? Do you wish to discuss the reality of the current fiction market, your novel project, plot and characters, or perhaps get feedback on the opening hook or a few sample chapters? Or would you simply like a relaxed and productive dialogue about your goals as a writer?" Registration is first come, first served.
Embodied Lines: A Poetry Workshop. March 18 - April 15, 2026: Online. Writing poetry is not about perfection. It’s about presence—learning to see again, listen again, to taste and feel, and trust the instincts that shape your inner voice. This inspiring workshop is designed to bring you back to your senses. Each week, you’ll slow down, tune in and awaken one sense at a time. Through guided exercises, generative prompts and thoughtful sharing, you’ll learn to write from the body, the breath and the moment in front of you. Beginning and experienced writers are welcome. Limited to 12 participants.
Virginia Festival of the Book. March 20 - 22, 2026: Charlottesville, VA. "The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 for each of the past thirteen years. We have presented a captivating list of authors, ranging from international bestsellers to topical specialists to debut authors." Book exhibits, talks by authors, readings, workshops on book promotion, finding an agent, poetry, publishing, agents roundtable - you name it, this conference has it.
The 2026 Colorado Writing Workshop. March 21, 2026: Denver, CO. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Courtyard Denver Airport at Gateway Park. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Pitching Roundtables (Day 2) — Each roundtable will have two agents and a group of pre-selected writers with book projects, either on Zoom or in-person. You spend the day with your "table"—pitching, reading pages, and discussing your work. These tables will focus on completed nonfiction manuscripts with agents who specialize in this field.
Precision and Power: Writing Flash Fiction. March 19 - April 16, 2026: Online. Flash fiction proves that the smallest stories can hold the greatest weight. In this generative workshop, we’ll explore how compression, image and rhythm can give short prose extraordinary depth and resonance. Each week, we’ll read and discuss short works by contemporary writers to examine how voice, structure and omission shape meaning. Through guided prompts and in-class exercises, we’ll experiment with form and tone, generating new drafts that surprise us. We’ll also discuss strategies for revising short work and preparing it for publication. Open to writers of all levels who want to sharpen their prose and discover how to make a few hundred words feel infinite. Limited to 12 participants.
Chesapeake Writing Day Workshop. March 21, 2026: Washington, DC. A full-day “How to Get Published” event. "This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more."
University of North Dakota Writers Conference. March 25 - 27, 2026: Grand Forks, North Dakota. Founded in 1970 and held every year since, the UND Writers Conference is a three day event featuring six to eight authors annually. Authors ranging from Gwendolyn Brooks and August Wilson to Tommy Orange and Colson Whitehead, the UND Writers Conference is committed to community outreach, engagement, and finding ways to increase audience access to literature. The conference is free, but workshop space is limited to twenty participants; registration is first come, first served.
National Black Writers Conference. March 25 - 28, 2026: Medgar Evers College, CUNY, Brooklyn, New York. Black writers have historically turned lived struggle into powerful art—illuminating truth, inspiring action, and envisioning new futures. This Conference brings together voices of the African diaspora whose words push boundaries and empower change. Their narratives offer critical insight into the struggle for civil and human rights, using literature to confront obstacles, illuminate injustice, and inspire change while sustaining and strengthening us through challenging times. This Conference will explore how writers across the African diaspora address these issues through fiction, poetry, scholarship, technology, and plays.
Annual National Undergraduate Literature Conference. March 26 - 28, 2026: Weber State University, Ogden, UT. "Each year, nearly 200 undergraduate writers and poets throughout North America, and sometimes beyond, come to Weber State University to present their work and learn from some of the most important writers in contemporary literature."
Tennessee Mountain Writers Annual Conference. March 26 - 28, 2026: Oak Ridge, TN. Writing Contests, Workshops, Networking, Manuscript Evaluations, Publishers, Book Signings, Bookstore, Vendors, And more!
WTP. March 26 - 29, 2026: NY. NY. "The goal of this conference, and all its companion editorial and development programs, is to set you on a realistic path not only to publication, but to becoming a career author. The Write to Pitch utilizes a time-tested methodology that works to get writers published. Pitching TV/Film pros, literary agents, and publishing house acquisition editors is a vital component (see the Schedule), of course, but when asked what specific elements make the event unique and better than other writer conferences, our response lists a number of game-changing factors, both major and minor." Limited to 65 participants, so apply early.
Some Trees: A Generative Multi-Genre Writing Workshop with Rob Schlegel. March 26 - May 14, 2026: Online. In this generative writing course y,ou will write prose and poetry that emerges out of field observations, classroom discussion, and close readings of texts that explore ecology and the imagination, plants and consciousness, poetry and justice, gender and ash trees. The workshop is designed to help you become more aware of the choices you make as a writer. Application window: February 1-15.
Alabama Writing Workshop. March 27, 2026: Birmingham, Alabama. "A one-day writing workshop full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We will also have literary agents onsite to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well."
The 2026 Connecticut Writing Workshop. March 27, 2026: New Haven, CT. This in-person writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (125 total).
Power of Narrative. March 27- 28, 2026: Boston, MA. Over 30 journalists, directors, producers and editors lead three days of lively discussions geared to advance the knowledge of narrative storytellers. Approximately 500 persons attend. Early registration is encouraged.
Moravian Story Summit. March 27 - 28, 2026: Bethlehem, PA. Everyone’s invited to this year’s FREE conference, including local community members and faculty and students from all fields of study! Theme: Crafting Stories in an Uncertain World. Across two days of readings, workshops, and conversations, the Story Summit invites writers and creatives of all kinds to explore how storytelling helps us make meaning, navigate change, and stay connected in challenging times.
Writing and Illustrating for Kids (WIK): Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. March 27 - 28, 2026: Homewood, Alabama. "Gather with fellow writers, illustrators, translators, agents, editors, and other children's book publishing professionals for a day of craft, networking, professional development, and community. Make new connections, meet new friends, learn and explore, and refine your creative and business skills to move your kidlit career forward. With optional pre-conference intensives offered on Friday afternoon, March 27, and a free kidlit creators' social and trivia night event that evening. Sunday afternoon Shanda McCloskey will host a free event at the library. This will be a weekend to remember!"
WonderCon. March 27 - 29, 2026: Anaheim, CA. HUGE comic book convention.
Atlanta Writing Workshop. March 28, 2026: Atlanta, GA. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference. March 28, 2026: Atlanta, Georgia. The Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference (ASPC) is dedicated to serving self-published authors and the independent publishing market. No matter whether you're curious about the self-publishing market or you want to learn how to grow your independent author business, our conference will help you launch your career forward.
Western Reserve Writers' Conference. March 28, 2026, South Euclid, Ohio. This free one-day writing conference takes place at Cuyahoga County Public Library's William N. Skirball Writers' Center, located in the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Branch library. It features a choice of breakout sessions, a keynote address, and private sessions with editors.
The 2026 Boston Writing Workshop. March 28, 2026: Boston, MA. "This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total). This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
MARCH 2025
The 2025 Writing Workshop of South Florida. March 15, 2025: Fort Lauderdale / Pompano, Florida. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (150 total).
PJ Library Retreat: Picture Book Summer Camp. Application deadline March 16. August 24 - 28, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. "If you’re a pre-published author with a Jewish picture book in progress (or no more than one published book) we invite you to apply for five-days of inspiration, mentorship, fun, and creativity on the beautiful campus of Boyds Mills."
a lot of curiosities. March 19, 2025: Via Zoom. This generative, crafty workshop aims to introduce a series of tools, ideas, and curiosities to storytellers of all levels, but especially those looking to dip their toes into creative writing for the first time. The workshop will consist of a short discussion asking the question: what is creative writing? And a guided session of an open writing prompt, titled “The Hands That Make Us.” Through this generative prompt, we’ll explore the stories in our hands, literally. Participants will come out with either a poem or piece of hybrid prose.
The 2025 Oklahoma Writing Workshop. March 22, 2025: Oklahoma City, OK. This in-person writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (125 total).
From Spark to Story: A Fiction Workshop. March 24 - April 21, 2025. Online. In this five-week short fiction course, we’ll delve into the elements that make short stories most compelling. Through generative writing exercises and discussions about contemporary short stories, we’ll experiment with plot, character development, point of view and more. During each weekly session, we’ll workshop works-in-progress we want to improve, or entirely new pieces we write during the course. We’ll assign small workshop groups for each coming session, and everyone will read their group’s work ahead of class to be prepared to discuss each in a safe, supportive setting. By the end of this workshop, you will have the tools and feedback you need to complete a short story or two, and to continue honing your future writing. Limited to 12 participants.
Building Worlds: An Online Poetry Workshop. March 26 - April 23, 2025. Online. In this five-week course, we’ll explore the art of world-building within the confines of poetry, creating vibrant, imaginative spaces that come alive with detail, emotion and resonance. Through generative writing exercises, prompts and discussions, we will learn how to develop poems that transport readers to fully realized universes rooted in fantasy, myth, memory or reality. The course will emphasize techniques for establishing mood and atmosphere, as well as infusing our work with dynamic characters, stories and themes. Together, we’ll read exemplary pieces from William Blake to Audre Lorde to Jamaal May and more to analyze how world-building enhances the emotional and narrative depth of a poem, making it engaging and memorable. Weekly workshops will provide a supportive environment for feedback, helping you refine your craft and push the boundaries of your imagination.
National Black Writers Conference 2025 Biennial Symposium. March 27 - 29, 2025: Medgar Evers College, CUNY, Brooklyn, New York. This Symposium, a culturally enriched literary gathering of writers, educators, literary professionals and the general public, specifically targets Young Adult (YA) and Middle Grade (MG) Literature by Black authors, a genre that has expanded over the last two decades. This genre serves as an energizing force for cultivating and nurturing the critical reading and writing habits of a cross-generation of readers and writers, helps to affirm students’ self-esteem, literacy, identity, and awareness of the contributions of literature by Black writers.
MARCH 2024
The 2024 Writing Workshop of Austin. March, 1, 2024: Austin, TX. A full-day “How to Get Published” event. "This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor, get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (120 total)."
The 2024 Houston Writing Workshop. March 2, 2024: Houston, TX. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston Near the Galleria. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Writing By Writers Boulder Generative Workshop. March 15 - 17, 2024: Boulder, Colorado. Lectures, craft talks, writing exercises and class discussions. Each participant will have the opportunity to work in a small group setting with all three faculty members. Will return in 2025.
California Creative Writers Conference. March 22 - 24, 2024: Los Angeles, CA. "You benefit from the most informed presentations and the latest information from the world of publishing. And along with perennial favorites, we offer important fresh voices and industry experts to widen your wealth of knowledge. Plus you have the opportunity to meet and network in person with literary agents, editors, and industry professionals to help guide you on the path to success." Via Zoom and in person.
The Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference. March 22 -24, 2024: Los Angeles, CA. West Coast Writers Conferences presents a full weekend of panels, workshops and presentations by educators, noted speakers, and industry professionals focused on the craft and business of writing.
MARCH 2023
MARCH 2022
Meet the Publishers! March 26, 2022: Tulsa, OK. Meet different publishers, traditional to self-published, magazines, newspapers, etc. Learn what they are looking for and how the industry is changing. Canceled for 2023.
APRIL 2026
Norwescon. April 2 - 5, 2026: Sea Tac, WA. Norwescon is one of the largest regional Science Fiction and Fantasy conventions in the United States.
The Creativity Workshop in New York. April 3 - 6, 2026: New York, New York. "The Creativity Workshops take away the fear of writing and open the way to new ideas. They are especially helpful for writers in fiction, poetry, memoir, theatre and film to get over writing blocks. In our Creativity Workshop Retreats you will generate both new work and ideas for the work you are in the midst of creating. We use many different techniques to help you find your way through the novel, essay, poem, memoir, or script you are writing or hope to write. In The Creativity Workshop you will be doing free writing, writing from guided visualizations, collaborative writing, journaling and memoir work and even some rudimentary drawing, collage and photography."
Writing the Speculative Diaspora. April 8, 2026: Online. Every story is a diaspora story, and every diaspora story is speculative in nature. In this craft talk and workshop, open to all genres, students will gain an appreciation for diaspora stories and be able to spot and understand the presence of the speculative within them. We’ll discuss perspectives on diaspora narratives from authors such as Ocean Vuong, Viet Thanh Nguyen, R.F. Kuang, and Ling Ma; diaspora stories’ role in challenging western storytelling conventions; and how diaspora pushes against genre, concepts of truth and authenticity, and the confines of individuality and representation. We’ll then discover the speculative diaspora form and its potential, and explore the speculative diaspora through writing prompts such as truth/lie (“speculative truth”)/dream activities and a collective storytelling exercise.
The 2026 Sacramento Writing Workshop. April 10, 2026: Sacramento, CA. A full-day “How to Get Published” event. "This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more."
Buffalo Writing Workshop. April 10, 2026: Buffalo, NY. This is a special one-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing workshop at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Buffalo. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Ohio Writing Workshop. April 10 - 11, 2026: Online. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total). Will be held virtually.
The 2026 Minnesota Writing Workshop. April 11, 2026: St. Paul, MN. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Liberty States Fiction Writers Conference. April 11, 2026: Hamilton, NJ. "In addition to our wonderful and diverse keynote speakers, we have a number of editors and agents who will be attending to take pitches as well as some awesome writer and reader workshops!"
The 2026 Minnesota Writing Workshop. April 11, 2026: St. Paul, MN. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Rally of Writers Conference. April 11, 2026: Lansing, Michigan. Michigan authors and educators in 15 breakout sessions and workshops on all aspects of writing, including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, the Nuts & Bolts of manuscript submissions, and more.
San Antonio Book Festival. April 11, 2026: San Antonio, TX. The San Antonio Book Festival is a FREE, annual, daylong event that unites readers and writers in a celebration of ideas, books, libraries, and literary culture. Featuring more than 80 nationally and regionally acclaimed authors, the Festival offers programming for all ages.
The 2026 Writing Workshop of San Francisco. April 11, 2026: San Francisco, CA. A full-day “How to Get Published” event. "This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more."
Waiting, Listening, and Jumping the Gun: A Poetry Workshop with Jim Peterson. April 11, 2026: Online. Genre: Generative Writing (Poetry-focused but all genres welcome) Level: Beginning to experienced writers.
Writing a Picture Book 101: Get to the Heart of Your Story. April 14 - 16, 2026: Online. Start your picture book writing journey here and explore formats and structures for turning your spark of an idea into a wonderful story!
Novels in Verse: Creating an Image System. April 15 - May 6, 2026: Online. Learn how to use an image system to give your verse novel clarity, cohesion, and emotional resonance through purposeful, recurring imagery.
Chicago-North RWA's Spring Fling. April 16 - 18, 2026: Oak Brook, IL. Three day Biennial writer's conference geared towards both aspiring and established writers of any genre but focused on romantic fiction. Bookseller/Blogger/Librarian event, Masterclass in Craft and Marketing, Closing Gala. Biennial conference.
Chanticleer Authors Conference. April 16 - 19, 2026: Bellingham, Wash. Sessions with a special focus on the business of being a working writer on topics such as marketing, publicity, platform, sales tools & strategies, publishing, production, distribution, organization, storycraft, editing, and more.
Embrace Your Inner Intuitive Writer to Fuel Your Writing. April 16 - 23, 2026: Online. Whether you outline carefully, or write by feel, this workshop invites you to explore ways to embrace and cultivate your writing intuition.
Florida Writing Workshop. April 17 (Orlando) and 18 (Tampa), 2026. Two separate full-day “How to Get Published” writing events in Florida. These writing events are a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the events."
The Pikes Peak Writers Conference. April 17 - 19, 2026: Colorado Springs, Colorado. "The three-day conference is full of topical, in-depth workshops, dynamic keynote speakers, opportunities for one-on-one time with agents and editors, the chance to read your work aloud for constructive critique, plus time to socialize with fellow writers. Will be held in person.
Poetry at Round Top Festival. April 17 - 19, 2026: Round Top, Texas. Poetry at Round Top is an annual festival presenting the nation’s most exciting and prominent poets over three days of readings, workshops, and conversations on craft. Located on the gorgeous Festival Hill campus between Austin, San Antonio, and Houston, Poetry at Round Top is an immersive experience like no other poetry gathering.
North Carolina Writers’ Network Spring Conference. April 18, 2026: Asheville, North Carolina. Features intensive workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as publisher exhibits, on-site "lunch with an author" readings, and an open mic.
Hedgebrook’s Writer-in-Residence Program supports writers from all over the world for residencies of two to four weeks. The cottage, all meals, and the entire residency experience at Hedgebrook is free to selected writers. Travel is not included and is the responsibility of the writer to arrange and pay for. Up to 6 writers can be in residence at a time, each housed in their own handcrafted cottage. They spend their days in solitude – writing, reading, taking walks in the woods on the property or on nearby Double Bluff beach. In the evenings, “The Gathering” is a social time for residents to connect and share over their freshly prepared meals. Writers must be women, which is inclusive of transgender women and female-identified individuals. Because gender inequity still occurs in all spaces including literary ones, it is part of our explicit mission to support and promote women’s voices. Deadline: Applications open February 17 - April 17 for 2027 Residency.
Poetic Flow Studio: Generative Writing Sessions for Poets. April 20, 2026: Online. Dive into exercises and prompts that will help you develop creative flow and explore the power of poetry to connect with your roots, ignite new ideas, and transform your writing.
ASJA (American Society of Journalists and Authors) Writers Conference. April 20 - 22, 2026: Online. The ASJA Virtual conference will have three tracks: Journalism, Books and Content writing with 12 50-minute sessions per track. There will be, three keynotes (one per day) as well as networking and social experiences. Sessions will run from 11:00 am to 6 or 7 pm EST. Attendees who cannot attend live will be able to watch recordings for a limited time. Our signature event, Client Connections will be held April 23 and 24.ASJA will once again offer scholarships to cover conference registration."
Writing With Gratitude: A Generative Poetry Workshop. April 22, 2026: Online. In this two-hour course, we’ll study how contemporary poets from various backgrounds have used the spectrum of emotion and experience — from rage to rebirth — to generate poems that are, ultimately, grounded in gratitude. Poets who have found joy despite, or perhaps because, of the times. From there, we’ll use writing prompts that will encourage us to do the same, while leaning on group discussions, brainstorms, and guiding examples to inform our sense of ideation, voice, and possibility. And we'll sit with everything that emerges in between.
Las Vegas Writer’s Conference April 23 – 25, 2026: Las Vegas, Nevada. Join writing professionals, agents publishers and marketing experts for a weekend of workshops and enlightening discussions about the publishing industry. A chance to pitch your manuscript and ideas to agents.
Nebraska Writers Guild Annual Conference and Writing Retreat. April 23 - 25, 2026: Omaha, NE. Workshops, pitch sessions with an agent and writing sessions followed by evening keynote speakers.
Kentucky Writing Workshop, April 24, 2026: Louisville, KY. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Malice Domestic. April 24 - 26, 2026: Bethesda, MD. Malice Domestic™ is an annual fan convention in the metropolitan DC area that celebrates the traditional mystery, books best typified by the works of Agatha Christie. The genre is loosely identified as mysteries which contain no explicit sex, or excessive gore, or violence.
Monadnock Pastoral Poetry and Writers Retreat. April 24 - 26, 2026. Greenfield, NH. Includes workshops, individual conferences, participant & mentor readings; hiking & kayaking (weather permitting). Each workshop uses dual mentors.
Tennessee Writing Workshop. April 25, 2026: Nashville, TN. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Philadelphia Writing Workshop. April 25, 2026: Philadelphia, PA. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Unlocking the Magic of 100-word Stories: A Generative Workshop with Kim Culbertson. April 28 and 30, 2026: Online. In this 2-day, immersive and generative workshop, Kim will share the magic of this small, bright form. Through close readings of example pieces and generative prompts, Kim will guide workshop participants in the practice of writing and revising 100-word stories as well as explore how practicing this form in an intentional way can build specificity in all the writing we do. At the end of this workshop, participants can plan to leave with 2-3 100-word stories ready for submission. Come practice with us!
Annual PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature. April 29 - May 2, 2026 at various locations in New York City and Los Angeles. With more than 80 writers from 30 countries, the 2026 festival will celebrate great writing and the power of storytelling against the current headwinds of attacks by those who seek to censor and silence. This gathering of writers from every part of the globe is a potent reminder—in fact, an antidote in an era of censorship—that books drive culture and identity, while empowering and transforming our lives. The PEN World Voices Festival was founded by Salman Rushdie, Michael Roberts, and Esther Allen.
Whole Novel Workshop: A Virtual Course for Middle Grade and Young Adult Writers. April 30 - June 25, 2026: Online. A transformative opportunity to have your entire draft (up to 80,000 words) of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and a private consultation provided. This online program is for any writer of a middle grade or young adult novel.
APRIL 2025
Red Clay Writers Conference. April 26, 2025: Kennesaw GA. Red Clay Writers Conference is the annual conference of Georgia Writers Association. Red Clay has been hosted since 2009 to encourage and inspire writers through literary events that focus on the art and craft of writing. Scheduled for October 2026.
APRIL 2024
Idaho Writers League Annual Conference. April 11 - 13, 2024: Boise, Idaho. Our theme: The Lifelong Author. Do you want to do this writing thing for life? No matter whether that means self-publishing or traditional publishing, part-time writing or making this your career, doing this for life requires a mindset and strategy that anyone can learn. And we’re bringing experts from everywhere to teach you how: from the writer’s life to marketing your work, from the business of writing to improving your craft. They include J. Thorn, Nick Thacker, our keynote speaker, James A. Owen.
Breaks, Blank Space, and Gaps: Poetic Gutters in Novels in Verse and Poetry. April 11 - 18, 2024: Online. How you use stanza breaks, blank space, and the gaps between poems affects the way that readers engage with your story. Join author Laura Shovan for an exploration of how we can use poetic gutters with intention to ensure active reading.
West Chester Pop Up Poetry Spring Festival. April 14 - 15, 2024: West Chester, PA. "Celebrating National Poetry Month, we embrace Renaissance! Our gathering is infused by hope, cast in appreciation for the possibilities inherent in the rigors of creating, the craft of revising, the challenge of teaching, the rewards of learning, and the joy of performing and publishing poetry for both new and established poets. We hope you join our two-day event in April with Patricia Smith as Keynote Speaker (bio), the Spencer Undergraduate Poetry Awards ceremony, outdoor readings, and much more on the beautiful West Chester University campus."
Columbus State Community College Writers Conference. April 20, 2024: Columbus, Ohio. Workshops to explore audiobooks, crafting kids’ books, comedy, fan fiction and more. This one-day conference is free of charge
Blurred Lines: Writing Speculative Nonfiction. April 20 - May 18, 2024: Online. Though the golden rule of writing nonfiction is to be truthful, in speculative nonfiction, invention and imagination help a writer capture and hold truth’s slippery nature. In this five-week online workshop, we will read examples of speculative nonfiction by other writers like Margot Jefferson, Elissa Washuta and Jami Nakamura Lin, and learn how to draft scenes where facts are not fighting with what is imagined. Through exercises that employ both fiction and speculative nonfiction techniques, we will generate new material or fine-tune pieces already in progress. This workshop is open to new and more experienced writers looking to set their minds free—to use fact to explore fiction, blur the lines and create your own truth.
MAY 2026
The 2026 Arizona Writing Workshop. May 1, 2026: Phoenix, AZ. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (150 total).
Washington Writers Conference. May 1 - 2, 2026: Bethesda, MD. "Expert sessions with authors and publishing pros on the many paths to publishing — from writing killer query letters and landing an agent to going your own way and utilizing a self/hybrid model — and publicizing your book once it exists!"
Lakefly Writers Conference. May 1 - 3, 2026: Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The Writers Conference will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, May 1 and conclude at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. Events include a keynote speaker, workshops, panel discussions and one-on-one consultations with industry experts. Registration will open in February 2026. The Book Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2. This event will be free/open to the public.
The 2026 Writing Conference of Los Angeles. May 2, 2026: Los Angeles, CA. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Michigan Writers Workshop. May 2, 2026: Detroit, MI. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Ozarks Writers League Conference. May 2, 2026: Branson, MO. The Ozarks Writers League is a group of like-minded individuals dedicated to promoting writing, literacy, photography, and art. Since 1983, OWL has welcomed individuals at all stages of their development.
Colrain Cold Read. May 3, 2026: Online. An intimate, 5–6 poet one-day intensive built around an enactment of a real-time submission moment: a press editor reads your manuscript cold, in front of the small group, and thinks aloud—exactly as they would at their office desk. You’ll hear the real editorial questions (title/TOC, opening 5-10 pages, through-line, writing skill, structure, cohesiveness, style, etc), followed by concrete responses for all 5-6 manuscripts in the group as the editor responds to each, one by one. After the editor’s departure, a Colrain faculty member anchors interpretations and expectations so you leave with a realistic understanding of work to be done.
In This Poem Something Grows: A poetry workshop with Asa Drake. May 5 - June 9, 2026: Online. This workshop title is, of course, aspirational. More likely, something grows, and then it fails. Or something thrives for a given set of conditions. In this generative workshop we’ll hone our observation skills while also risking accountability for our role as an observer in the human and natural world. Application deadline: March 31, 2026.
ThrillerFest XXI. May 5 - 9, 2026: New York City. This is the annual conference of the International Thriller Writers. The ThrillerFest conference has four main components: Master CraftFest, CraftFest, PitchFest, and ThrillerFest. Master CraftFest was designed as an educational tool for aspiring writers as well as debut and midlist authors to gain advanced training from the masters of the craft in an intimate, day-long training session. CraftFest was designed for all writers to learn from bestselling authors and subject experts who kindly offer their advice and assistance to advance attendees’ writing techniques and further their careers. PitchFest was designed to match writers with agents, editors, publishers, and producers. ThrillerFest, the final two days of the conference, is intended to offer readers a chance to meet the best authors in the industry and be introduced to debut and midlist authors. Expect innovative panels, spotlight interviews, and workshops to educate and inspire.
Finding Joy in the Ordinary: A multi-genre writing workshop with Natalya Sukhonos. May 5 - June 23, 2026: Online. In our world of constant distraction and the 24-hour news cycle, how can we pay attention to the small details that shape our world, that give us a firm sense of place and allow us to come one step closer to the many hidden worlds of our natural environment? In this multi-genre writing class, we will think about the role of sensory details in helping shape the world of the page. Application deadline: March 31, 2026.
Nonfiction Writers Conference. May 6 - 8, 2026. ONLINE EVENT. The Nonfiction Writers Conference (NFWC) is a multi-day event featuring live presentations by top speakers and industry experts, Q&A with speakers, and plenty of downloadable materials. You can attend the live webcast by computer, mobile device or phone.
Picture Book Plotting from A to Z: A 5-Week Online Course for Writers. May 6 - June 10, 2026: Online. This online course with Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen features pre-recorded and/or written lectures, along with assignments for each letter of the “Picture Book Alphabet,” plus weekly LIVE Zoom sessions for all of your course related questions and discussion with Sudipta. In addition, Sudipta will offer consultations in small groups during the last two live sessions.
Community Retreat with Grace Lin and Debbi Michiko Florence: Celebrating Asian and Asian American Stories. May 7 - May 10, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. Work alongside community members and spend time creating, dreaming, and discovering the many beautiful contributions made by Asian and Asian American voices in the children’s book field.
2026 Portland Writing Workshop. May 8, 2026: Portland, OR. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (175 total).
Seattle Writers Workshop. May 9, 2026: Seattle, WA. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Longleaf Writers Conference. May 9 - 16, 2026: Seaside, Florida. "Formerly the Seaside Writers Conference, Longleaf Writers Conference is an annual gathering of creative writers from all over the nation, featuring award-winning writers in poetry and fiction and screenwriting who will offer a full week of intensive writing workshops, one day seminars, school outreach programs, and social events. This event occurs every year in May, and offers the opportunity for beginning, intermediate and advanced writers to celebrate writing, to network with other writers, and to hone their craft. There will also be seminars hosted by professional editors and literary agents who will offer one-on-one consultations. All participants who pay the full conference tuition fee will be able to take part in all daily activities, while those paying a la carte pricing will have the pick of which classes and workshops they would like to attend. The Longleaf Writers Conference is one of the only conferences in the nation to take place on one of the most beautiful beaches in the US, and every year will feature notable guest writers, literary agents, and professional editors."
The Monterey Writer Retreat in California. May 12 - 16, 2026: Monterey, CA. Participants in the Monterey Writer Retreat will work both in a group and one-on-one with the best literary "closers" and mentors in the business: Paula Munier, Michael Neff, and Katharine Sands (see bios below), who together combine more than 75 years of working with aspiring authors and ushering them to publication. Before you meet with them, you inform us ahead of time via the Monterey Writer Retreat Application about the retreat goals you wish to focus on and we'll make it happen.
Finding Your Form When Writing About Food: A writing workshop with Kate Lebo. May 13 - June 17, 2026: Online. When we’re struggling to begin a work of food-focused nonfiction, how do we find the right form? How can forms associated with food, like the recipe or the menu, be used as invitations to experiment? How might formal constraints guide us toward the fullest expression of our art? In this workshop, we’ll take a close look at three forms: the recipe, the flash essay, and the braided essay. Application deadline:April 20, 2026
Writing Nonfiction: Hooking Your Reader & Finding Success. May 19, 2026: Online. In the crowded nonfiction market, a compelling hook makes all the difference! Learn how to draw readers and editors in, reveal your unique angle, and keep pages turning in this online workshop.
Community Retreat with Meg Medina: Celebrating Latinx Stories in Kidlit. May 31 - June 3, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. Join Meg Medina and guests for a retreat celebrating the rich tapestry of Latina, Latino, Latine, and Latinx voices in children’s literature, a space to rest, create, and honor the stories that shape us.
IBPA Publishing University. May 14 - 16, 2026: Portland, Oregon. The Independent Book Publishers Association offers 30+ educational sessions including experiential learning labs, insightful keynotes, a gala book award ceremony, networking events, and more!
Storymakers Conference. May 14 - 16, 2026: Provo, Utah. The Storymakers conference features over a hundred classes geared toward aspiring and established writers alike, taught by some of the best presenters in the publishing industry. Some past keynote speakers have included such names as Brandon Sanderson, Lois Lowry, Jennifer A. Nielsen, Shannon Hale, Ally Condie, and more!
Getting to Know Your Character with Sarah Aronson. May 15, 2026: Online. Characters aren't just part of your story; they are the story. From picture books to novels, your characters drive every plot twist and emotional beat. Join Sarah Aronson to explore character-driven writing techniques and to discover your story's characters.
Pacific University Master of Fine Arts in Writing Residency Writers Conference. Application deadline May 15, 2026: Forest Grove, Oregon. Writers seeking to deepen their craft and expand their professional community are invited to attend the Residency Writers Conference together with MFA students, faculty and guest speakers. Join us for 10 full days of craft talks, workshops, panels, classes, readings and more featuring some of the best minds of the literary world. This residency is a rare opportunity to engage in sustained and meaningful conversation with others who share your passion for the art of writing. Dates: June-18-28, 2026.
Bookstock Literary Festival. May 15 - 17, 2026: Woodstock, Vermont. Expect 50+ speakers, author signings, live music, workshops, exhibits, special events and a huge tent sale of 10,000-12,000 used & rare books. All events and workshops are free and open to the public.
The 2026 Cincinnati Writing Workshop. May 16, 2026: Cincinnati, OH. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Courtyard Cincinnati North at Union Centre (West Chester). In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
Kachemak Bay Writers' Conference. May 16 - 19, 2026: Homer, Alaska. We are looking forward to welcoming you at the beautiful Kachemak Bay Campus in downtown Homer, Alaska. There will there be four-days of craft classes, agent and editor meetings, panel discussions, readings by the participants and the faculty, and more chances for folks to interact with each other and form the community of writers that sustains us when we return to our desks.
Writeaway in New Mexico. May 17 - 24, 2026: Casa Bellisima, New Mexico. $3,500 for private room; $3,100 each for friends or couple sharing a room Includes writing consultations and daily writing workshops, all meals, wine and cocktails, plus a cooking class and excursion. Full
Boldface Conference for Emerging Writers. May 18 - 22, 2026: Houston, Texas. Daily workshops, readings, craft talks, social events and professionalism panels in an intimate and supportive environment designed specifically with the needs of emerging writers in mind.
Bear River Writers’ Conference. May 19 - 23, 2026: Camp Michigania on Walloon Lake, near Petoskey, Michigan. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as readings, discussions, nature walks, and time to write.
Balticon. May 22 - 25, 2026: Baltimore, MD. Balticon is sponsored by the Baltimore Science Fiction Society (BSFS). BSFS presents the Compton Crook Award, the Robert A. Heinlein Award, and the winner of the annual Jack L. Chalker Young Writer's Contest annually at this event. Multiple tracks of Programming over the four day weekend, featuring authors, artists, scientists, musicians, podcasters, publishers, editors, costumers and other creative SF luminaries.
Martha’s Vineyard Summer Writers’ Conference. May 24 - 30, 2026, and June 14 - 20, 2026: Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. "The Martha’s Vineyard Summer Writers’ Conference brings together writers from around the world with the central belief that we can all learn from one another. Our program offers week-long classes on the craft of fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, evening readings, panel discussions, and individualized manuscript sessions. Attendees study with award-winning Visiting Authors & Poets and celebrate writing on the beautiful island of Martha's Vineyard. For those interested in individualized feedback, we offer Manuscript Sessions with our Visiting Authors and Poets. These one-on-one sessions allow attendees to get individualized feedback on their works-in-progress as well as advice on how to seek publication."
North Words Writers Symposium. May 26 - 29, 2026: Skagway, Alaska. "Exploring the Frontiers of Language," the North Words Writers Symposium welcomes all to an intimate setting with just 40 participants engaging with authors in a spectacular Alaska setting. Join this year's faculty of Alaska-NW authors for four days of panel discussions, writing workshops, readings, and adventure in Skagway, Alaska. Symposium events include activities such as hiking and writing workshops, a barbecue with live music at Alderworks Writers & Artists Retreat in Dyea; and a keynote banquet in a show garden. REGISTER by May 18.
Biographers International Organization Conference. May 28 - 29, 2026: Washington, DC. Of all the programs and services provided to BIO members, the Biographers International Organization is proudest of its annual conference. Each year, BIO brings together some of the finest practitioners of the craft of biography to help guide, mentor, encourage, and advise attendees on a wide variety of topics relating to the writing, researching, and selling of biography. The conference also offers a unique opportunity to hear some of biography’s best—and best-known—writers share their stories. The afternoon features a keynote lecture by the recipient of the BIO Award. Past recipients include Robert Caro, Ron Chernow, Arnold Rampersad, Jean Strouse, and Claire Tomalin. Panel sessions throughout the day provide tips for novice biographers, examination of the craft of biography, and exploration of issues aimed at seasoned biographers. A highlight of the conference is the presentation of the Plutarch Award for the year’s best biography.
Mountain Heritage Literary Festival. May 29 - 30, 2026: Cumberland Gap, TN. "Every year writers gather at the ancient and beloved Cumberland Gap to celebrate writing, music, and Appalachian heritage. Events include workshops, panels, readings, concerts, lectures, open mic, and more."
The Bay Area Book Festival. May 30 - 31, 2026: Berkeley, California. The free Bay Area Book Festival celebrates books and literature with a heavy focus on readings and author talks. But you’ll also find panel discussions and writing workshops for youth and adults. There’s one large adult program stage, a robust children’s area with activities and readings, and more than 100 exhibitors and food vendors.
Interlochen Writer’s Retreat. May 31 - June 5, 2026: Interlochen, Michigan. Nestled deep in the woods between two lakes, Interlochen College of Creative Arts' five-day Writers Retreat is a true writer's dream. Spend your days writing new material, attending presentations by award-winning faculty, and enjoying lakeside lunches and evening readings while making friends and connections in the literary world. Select your concentration from four unique courses, each grounded in different craft concepts with an emphasis on generating new work—appealing to both advanced and beginning writers alike.
MAY 2025
Writing in the Pines. May 3, 2025: Stockton University, Galloway, NJ. Choose from workshops in memoir, poetry and revision. Each workshop will meet for 6 hours and will offer craft discussion, writing prompts, writing time, sharing and inspiration.
Editing for Impact: Revising Your MG or YA Novel (Spring). May 7 - June 11, 2025.Online. Join novelists Jennifer Gennari and Lisa Moore Ramée for a six-week online deep dive into revision, where you’ll learn to enhance emotion, sharpen action, and refine your novel’s impact. Through live sessions, structured assignments, community support, and personalized feedback, you’ll build the skills needed to enrich your novel.
The Craft of Short Stories: An Online Workshop. May 15 - June 12, 2025: Online. The short story is a nimble medium that leaves room for experimentation. Some stories run entirely on language, some on mood. Some contain an entire world, some are slices of life. In this generative writing workshop, we will study the engines of a wide range of contemporary short stories and figure out why they are effective. We will look at voice, character, setting, point of view and story to discuss techniques and terminologies, craft and content. By the end of this course, we will have tools to create, revise and polish our own short stories. Participants are encouraged to bring a work-in-progress to develop, or come empty-handed to write something brand new.
Sleuthfest. May 15 - 18, 2025: St Petersburg, FL. Sponsored by the Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America a conference for writers and fans. Features writing workshops, social events, and pitch sessions, including:
* Agent Appointments to pitch your finished work
* Critiques of your 10 page manuscript submission
* Forensic track with current forensic techniques & hands-on workshops
* Social events to mingle with agents, editors and your favorite authors
* Auction to purchase critiques of your work by bestselling authors
* Sessions on the craft of writing
* Sessions on marketing and promoting your work
* Practice your Pitch sessions with experienced authors
Will return in 2027
Colrain Classic. May 16 - 19, 2025: Via Zoom. "The Colrain Manuscript Classic is a highly focused, 3.5 day conference designed for poets with manuscripts in progress. The Classic features in-depth pre-conference work and candid, realistic evaluation and feedback from nationally-known poets, editors and publishers. In preparation, participants work at home on pre-conference assignments and then, in the workshop, review, arrange, and winnow their work based on the pre-conference work. In addition to the manuscript preparation workshop and editor sessions, there will be an editorial Q&A, and an after-conference strategy session."
The Poetry Bandit: An Online Workshop. May 19 - June 23, 2025: Online. Enliven your language, invoke your inner child and fall in love with writing all over again. In this course, we will rekindle our creativity and expand our writing toolbox by experimenting with found text. Inspiring exercises will lead us to write centos and erasures, lift speech from overheard conversations and interrogate repetitive language to refresh our storytelling. We will share our work and also cover the ethics of using found texts as well as best practices when submitting for publication. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or new to poetry, here’s an opportunity to learn some fun tricks to elevate your writing.
The Massachusetts Poetry Festival. May 31 - June 1, 2025: Salem, Massachusetts. The Mass Poetry Festival offers nearly 100 poetry readings and workshops, a small press and literary fair, panels, poetry slams, and open-air readings. More than 150 poets will engage with thousands of New Englanders. Biennial.
MAY 2024
SCBWI 2024 Writers & Illustrators Working Conference. May 4 - 5, 2024: Austin, TX. Conference on children's books with keynotes; general sessions; breakout sessions for writing, professional development and illustration; intensives for novels, picture books and illustration; critiques; pitches and more. Will be held in person.
Writing As a Pathway Through Grief, Loss, Uncertainty and Change. May 7 - 13, 2024: Watsonville, CA. "The tool we’ll use for transformation is writing and sharing from the heart. Writing and being witnessed in community is a powerful catalyst on your journey of self-discovery. We'll teach you everything you need to know to experience the power of true stories shared and received."
Sundress Academy for the Arts: Mapping & Memory: Poetic Cartographies. May 8, 2024: Online. Through a series of writing exercises, we’ll use memory, cultural inheritances, and geographic imagination to develop new markers and map legends toward making and expanding our own poetic landscapes. Participants should expect to finish the class having generated the start of several new poems, and with new ideas in hand for approaching poetry in both reading and writing.
Working Retreat: Nonfiction and Informational Fiction. May 16 - 16, 2024: Boyds Mills, PA. Join Heidi Stemple, Andrea Page, and editor Eileen Robinson for time to create and connect with fellow nonfiction writers.
Peripatetic Writing Workshop and Retreat. May 17 - 24, 2024: Catskill, New York. NYU teachers and authors Maureen Brady and Martha Hughes lead the program featuring daily workshops, stimulating writing exercises, structured "quiet hours" for writing, plus optional tutorials. Martha Hughes founded the Peripatetic on Shelter Island, NY in 1991 in response to writers' needs for a quiet time and place for writing coupled with constructive feedback of their work from excellent editors and like-minded peers. Since then in keeping with its name, the Peripatetic has moved from state to state and country to country, meeting twice-annually in such diverse locations as Achill Island, Ireland; Anna Maria Island, Florida; Antigua, Guatemala; Siracusa, Sicily; Woodstock, NY; Verona, Italy; St Simon's Island, Georgia; Tybee Island, Georgia; and Deal, England. This is the Peripatetic's first stay in Catskill in Upstate New York. The location of the Peri may change, but what remains year after year is the stimulating atmosphere and warm camaraderie created by serious writers sharing work and writing concerns.
JUNE 2027
Historical Novel Society North American Conference. June 17 - 19, 2027: Pittsburgh, PA. We will be hosted in the beautifully restored Omni William Penn Hotel, a storied landmark in downtown Pittsburgh. Opened in 1916 and now a member of Historic Hotels of America, the William Penn boasts nearly 600 guest rooms (including suites), 38 meeting rooms, and over 52,000 square feet of event space — ideal for sessions, workshops, and social programming. With its grand architecture, classic touches, and modern amenities, it promises to be an inspiring setting for our conference.
JUNE 2026
Odyssey Writing Workshop. June 1, 2026 (6 weeks): Online. Since its inception in 1996, Odyssey has become one of the most highly respected workshops for writers of fantasy, science fiction, and horror. Will be held online. Application deadline April 10.
Educational Publishing 101: Navigating New Paths for Your Writing. June 2, 2026: Online. Bridge the gap between your creative craft and the classroom with an insider’s roadmap to the thriving educational market.
All About Picture Books: A Retreat for Storytellers. June 3 - 6, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. If you're writing (or want to write) a picture book, this is the retreat for you. You'll have time to write/revise, a 1:1 consultation with picture book faculty, presentations, and small group feedback sessions.
Picture Book Middles: Bridging Beginning and End. June 8, 2026: Online. The middle of a picture book isn’t filler. It’s the emotional bridge that carries readers from promise to payoff. Discover practical ways to strengthen that bridge and avoid a muddy, unfocused middle.
Look / Mira: Latinx/e Ways of Looking in Poetry & Prose. June 10, 2026: Online. This 90-minute generative workshop invites participants to explore the act of looking at both cultural inheritance and creative practice. Drawing on Latinx/e writers who reframe the gaze, we’ll examine how looking and being looked at are shaped by language, place, power, and memory. We’ll read short excerpts from poetry, creative nonfiction, and hybrid works that reimagine observation as resistance, remembrance, and recognition.
Traveling Light: Writing the Uncertain with Hannah Dela Cruz Abrams. July 6 - August 24, 2025: Online. To be skilled writers, we must be skilled noticers. Taking that concept as genesis, our workshop will begin with what the eye can hold: landscape, season, weather, gesture—the observable light. Then, we’ll look harder, study what isn’t so easy to perceive: inheritance and loss, grief and resilience. Janet Frame says we are exiles, but she also gestures toward home. The trick is in the paradox. Using memory, language, and research, we will write to hold that tension, to write between the lines of the known and unknown world. To decenter ourselves, if need be. This nonfiction workshop is part of that lifelong journey—one we’ll travel together for a time, though I suspect it won’t end with the last class, setting down what the world contains, so we might better understand—or even transcend—it. Application deadline June 5.
Writing the Unseen: Multi-genre workshop with Laura Marris. July 8–August 12, 2025: Online. Places are almost always more than they appear. Beneath the surface of familiar, local landscapes lie vast environmental histories, some shaped by people, and others by living communities that are invisible to the human eye. In this generative, multi-genre workshop, we will approach the literature of the unseen through buried environmental changes, like stories of toxicity, underground rivers, or animal routes beneath highways; as well as through the stories of other species whose presences are often camouflaged, secret, or otherwise hidden from view. How can writers attend to what has been erased, ignored, or buried? How can we unfurl a landscape’s memory, or evoke the invisible traces of place we all carry in our bodies? Together we’ll explore examples from writers and artists working with the flight paths of birds, the former meanders of the Mississippi River, as well as personal ways memory, psychogeography, and emotional resonance can mark a place. In each session, we’ll combine readings with writing prompts and exercises designed to bring the unseen onto the page. Application deadline June 5.
Joy? More Serious Than You Think. July 9, 2025: Online. We’re all familiar with the daily cruelties and horrors of the world we live in. It takes no effort to conjure them in the mind. Given the circumstances “at a time like this,” it can often seem like it’s impossible to write about joy. The reality, of course, being that it is always going to be a time like this. Writing about joy, when done right, doesn’t shy away from these daily horrors. To do so would make it trite, a hollow platitude. Through examining poems from Lucille Clifton, Ross Gay, and Danez Smith this workshop aims to demonstrate how joy is not a naive, head-in-the-sand subject, but rather, as Ross Gay writes in Inciting Joy, a “serious” one; something that can be cultivated/relied upon in spite of and/or throughout periods of immense pain and tumult. Students will be shown a variety of ways to write about joy.
Picture Book Essentials: A Two-Night Mini for Picture Book Writers. July 15 - 17, 2025: Online. Picture books may be short, but writing them is no small task! Join award-winning author Darcy Pattison and author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski for a two-session deep dive into the essential elements that turn your ideas into engaging picture books!
International Women's Writing Guild Workshops and Retreats. August 9 - 28, 2025: Mostly online. See website for individual workshops and dates.
Revision Roadmap with Editor Kat Brzozowski. September 9 - 30, 2026: Online. Gain the editorial vision needed to identify narrative gaps and chart a definitive revision path for your novel in this online workshop.
Art as Inspiration: An Ekphrasitic Poetry Workshop. September 10 – October 8, 2025: Online. When everyday life doesn’t inspire us, we can turn to other art forms to move us. Learn how to build a friendship between verse and art by using the energy of music, paintings, films and more to create exciting ekphrastic poems. This encouraging workshop will help you collect inspirations and engage with structures, themes and motifs of other artists. You will read published examples of ekphrastic poetry, complete generative exercises and share drafts with fellow writers. Come empty-handed to write something new, or bring some works-in progress to revise. Limited to 12 participants.
WRITING THE MORE THAN HUMAN WORLD with Pam Houston - Part 1. September 15 - October 6, 2025: Online. In this workshop, we will focus on writing about animals, domesticated and wild; trees, individuals and entire forests, oceans, mountains, clouds, weather. They will become more than landscape, more than easy emotion. They will become characters, we will let them be, if they want to be, the reason the story exists at all. And if we dare we might even explore an underworld, a future world, or another world all together Workshop is open to writers in all genres. It will be mostly generative in nature, but we will share what we are working on from time to time during class.
The 2025 Aspen Literary Festival. September 26 - 28, 2025: Aspen, Colorado. The Aspen Literary Festival is a three-day celebration of books and ideas taking place September 26-September 28, 2025, in the beautiful mountain town of Aspen, Colorado. The festival features author talks and panel discussions, book signings, food trucks, parties and other attractions for book lovers. Most events are free with registration. Marquee events at the Wheeler Opera House are ticketed and require advance purchase.
The Wild We Speak: Lyrical Essays from Our Shared Ground. An Invitation to Craft Lyrical Nature Essays with CMarie Fuhrman. September 29 -30, 2025: Online. This three-hour generative workshop invites you into a focused examination of the lyrical nature essay, where the elements of the natural world become guides for crafting prose. We'll discover how your unique ways of seeing and knowing can give craft to your experiences within our shared environment. This class is for all writers who feel a genuine connection to the natural world and wish to translate that connection into prose that resonates with truth and artistry. If you're drawn to the various gifts of poetry, or if music, image, and nonlinearity already inform your expression, this workshop offers you the opportunity to bring those techniques to prose.
SEPTEMBER 2021
Novels in Verse: A Generative Retreat. October 26 - October 29, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. Verse novelists (and those interested in writing verse novels) are welcome to join this retreat for community, daily presentations, writing exercises and a 1:1 consultation with faculty.
Retreat for Survival and Healing. October 4-5, 2025: Knoxville, TN. This two-day retreat for sexual assault survivors will be held at The Birdhouse in Knoxville, TN and will be a safe space for creativity, generative writing exercises, discussions on ways to write trauma, advice on publishing, and more. Come join us in mutual support for a weekend of writing time for healing, safety, and comfort. The event will be open to writers of all backgrounds and experiences and provide an opportunity to work with many talented poets and writers from around the country including Jezmina Von Thiele, LySaundra Campbell, Bell McEntire, Dena Igusti, and Michelle Guerrero Henry.
The Gotham Writers Fiction Conference. October 4 - 5, 2025: NY, NY. On Day 1, there are four panels and presentations, each designed to give you a peek behind the publishing curtain. You’ll hear from agents, editors, and writers, all offering their insight into the process of getting a novel out to the world. On Day 2, there are Pitching Roundtables where writers spend the day at a table with two literary agents. You’ll be pitching your book project to the agents, but rather than sweating through a very quick pitch (as done at most conferences), you’ll spend four hours with the two agents, presenting your query letter and the first two pages of your manuscript, listening to others do the same, and getting in-depth feedback from the agents about your work and the publishing process. If you don’t quite have a book ready for publication, but want to prep for the day you do, you may sign up for just the Panels and Presentations.
Diving Into Picture Books: Format, Structure, and Practice. October 7 - 28, 2025: Online. Ready to write your own picture book? Join author Nikki Shannon Smith to learn the process from start to finish. This workshop covers everything from brainstorming to polishing your final draft.
Clockwork Alchemy. October 24 - 26, 2025: Redwood City, California. Our theme for 2025 takes advantage of the upcoming Halloween season. Gaslight Fantasy is Steampunk’s more magically-inclined cousin. It’s a subgenre of Historical Fantasy with a setting that is clearly recognizable as the real-world 19th or very early 20th century. It may be a full-on Alternate History where magic exists openly and has affected the course of events or combined with traditional steampunk alternate developments in technology. Gaslight Fantasy often draws on gothic horror tropes, so grab your cape, fangs, occult symbols, fae wings, and dancing shoes!
Craft & Heart of Writing Poetry for Children. October 23 - 26, 2023: Boyds Mills, PA. OVERVIEW: In-person 5-Day/4-Night Workshop and Retreat If writing poetry for children is your passion, join celebrated poets Georgia Heard and Rebecca Kai Dotlich for this 5-day/4-night retreat to work on your own poetry through guided writing exercises, peer workshopping and sharing, lectures, and a private consultation.
Writer's Digest Novel Writing Conference. October 20 - 23, 2022: Pasadena, CA. Experienced authors, editors, agents and publishing experts will be on hand, ready to help you develop your own craft and position yourself for success.
Kentucky State Poetry Society. November 1 - 2, 2025: Lexington, KY and Online. "Each year, KSPS hosts a poetry conference open to both members and nonmembers, bringing together poets of all levels to learn, share, and connect. The conference features panels, workshops, readings, and a keynote address, offering a rich opportunity to engage with the poetry community."
Pittsburgh Writing Workshop. November 15, 2025: Pittsburgh, PA. "This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the “Pittsburgh” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation."
Nebula Conference. June 3 - 7, 2026: Chicago, Illinois. SFWA members and other individuals who are interested in the field of science fiction and fantasy are welcome to attend SFWA’s Nebula Conference. Attendees may participate in workshops, programming and special events throughout the weekend. You do not need to be a member of SFWA to attend.
The Crash Course in Children’s Book Publishing (Spring). June 3 - August 5, 2026: Online. Join lead faculty Harold Underdown and special guests for a Crash Course in Children’s Publishing. At the end of the course, you will understand how the children’s book publishing industry works, including submitting, publishing, marketing a book for children, teens, or young adults, and beginning ideas about craft and critique.
Wyoming Writers Conference. June 5 - 7, 2026: Casper, WY. The conference features workshops in craft, marketing, and productivity for poets, fiction writers, and nonfiction writers, as well as publisher pitch sessions, roundtable critiques, and open mics. Past writers have included fiction writer Nina McConigley, and Poet Matt Mason.
The Creativity Workshop in New York. June 5 - 8, 2026: New York, New York. "The Creativity Workshops take away the fear of writing and open the way to new ideas. They are especially helpful for writers in fiction, poetry, memoir, theatre and film to get over writing blocks. In our Creativity Workshop Retreats you will generate both new work and ideas for the work you are in the midst of creating. We use many different techniques to help you find your way through the novel, essay, poem, memoir, or script you are writing or hope to write. In The Creativity Workshop you will be doing free writing, writing from guided visualizations, collaborative writing, journaling and memoir work and even some rudimentary drawing, collage and photography."
Northeast Texas Writers Organization. June 6, 2026: Mt Pleasant, TX. Crime, Mystery, Suspense, Horror Writing Conference.
Colgate Writers’ Conference. June 7 - 13, 2026: Hamilton, New York. Morning craft talks & workshops. Individual consultation with workshop instructor in the afternoon. Late afternoon participant readings and talks on publishing, storytelling. Evening readings by instructors & guests. Late night social events. "Bring a story, a book in progress, some poems, or a novel, and work with us on developing narrative strategies, verse techniques, and methods of research. Members of the publishing profession will also be here to discuss marketplace tactics."
Picture Book Middles: Bridging Beginning and End. June 8, 2026: Online. The middle of a picture book isn’t filler. It’s the emotional bridge that carries readers from promise to payoff. Discover practical ways to strengthen that bridge and avoid a muddy, unfocused middle.
The Writer’s Hotel Maine “Mini MFA”. June 10 - 16, 2026: Boothbay Harbor, Maine. "The Writer’s Hotel Maine “Mini MFA” is a unique, hybrid, comprehensive writing program. Our programming includes our TWH two-editor pre-conference Team Reading and our conference, to be held in person, June 4-10, 2025. We have even built in a free day so that attendees can enjoy the surrounds. Space is extremely limited. From our virtual pre-reading process through to conference, TWH takes writers and their writing to the next level. It's an extraordinary opportunity." Deadline to apply to TWH is April 6, 2026.
Squam Writes Retreat. June 11 - 14, 2026: Squam Lake, New Hampshire. The Squam Writes Retreat is a small group retreat for experienced fiction writers. We focus on craft with an eye toward publication. We offer opportunities for feedback and plenty of time to write, make new friends, and recharge creative batteries in a beautiful New Hampshire lakeside setting. Every participant receives a one-on-one critique with an agent or editor.
The 2026 California Writing Workshop. June 12 -13, 2026: Online. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total).
West Virginia Writers Conference. June 12 - 14, 2026: Cedar Lakes, West Virginia. Author readings, contests and sharing your love of writing with others.
Tinker Mountain Writers’ Workshop. June 14 - 19, 2026: Roanoke, Virginia. "In our manuscript workshops, capped at 10, you will distribute manuscripts in advance, prepare comments for your colleague’s submissions, and gather each morning to share insights and gain inspiration on the best path to advance your writing. You’ll receive critical feedback from peers and your faculty mentor and learn what other writers are working on as well. Our write-now workshops, capped at 12, allow you to immerse yourself in the craft of writing without the pressure of preparing or reading manuscripts. Through daily reading, writing exercises, and prompts, you’ll write both in class and during the afternoon to generate new work over the course of each day, dedicating as much time as possible to your own new writing. In our tutorial (a new offering this year!), you will submit work in advance to your faculty mentor, and then meet one-on-one three times during the week in 30-minute sessions. You will get an individualized reading list and extensive writing prompts to help you continue your work throughout the week."
Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop. June 14 - 19, 2026: The Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York. This program is for writers who want to learn how to write an Orion essay, short story, or poem; for writers who seek to become better advocates for the environment through their writing; for poets who are drawn to writing about nature and culture; for teachers and scholars who wish to write for a more general readership; and for environmental professionals who want to bring better writing skills to bear on their work. The program will feature small writing workshops dedicated to poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, as well as faculty readings and lectures, student readings, and presentations on publishing. Application deadline May 1, 2026.
Kenyon Review Writers Workshops. June 14 - 19, 2026: Gambier, Ohio. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction led by an accomplished faculty. Genre workshops (Fiction, Literary Nonfiction, and Poetry) are held for three hours each morning. Online. Applications open in March.
Lit Camp. June 14 - 19, 2026: Boonville, California. The conference features workshops, panels, and craft talks for fiction writers and creative nonfiction writers. Part writing retreat, part MFA-style intensive, our spring conference focuses on the craft of writing. Over the course of the five days, you will have plenty of uninterrupted time to write...because one of the best ways to get better at writing is to sit down and write. There will also be prompted free writing sessions to motivate and inspire you, as well as daily afternoon master classes taught by some of the most accomplished writers and instructors in publishing. Registration is limited to 23 participants. Application Deadline: January 31, 2026.
Bread Loaf Environmental Writers' Conference. June 14 - 20, 2026: Ripton, VT. The Bread Loaf Orion Environmental Writers' Conference is a week-long writers’ conference designed to hone the skills of people interested in producing literary writing about the environment and the natural world. The conference is co-sponsored by the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference, Orion magazine, and Middlebury College’s Environmental Studies Program. Application deadline March 15.
Bread Loaf Translators' Conference. June 14 - 20, 2026: Ripton, VT. The Bread Loaf Translators’ Conference includes workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as lectures, craft classes, meetings with editors and agents, and readings by faculty and guests. Application deadline March 15.
Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers. June 15 - 19, 2026: Draper, Utah. A week-long conference filled with hands-on workshops where the faculty work WITH you on your manuscript. As a participant of a five-day workshop, you get free feedback from an agent or editor on your writing, opportunities to network with like-minded writers, and five days of afternoon breakout sessions filled with dozens of craft-specific topics designed especially for kidlit authors.
Kundiman Retreat. June 15 - 20, 2026: Brooklyn, NY. "In order to mentor and build community among Asian American and Pacific Islander (“AAPI”) writers, Kundiman sponsors an annual creative writing Retreat. During each Retreat, six nationally renowned poets and fiction writers conduct craft classes and mentorship meetings. Readings, writing circles, and informal social gatherings are also scheduled. Through this Retreat, Kundiman hopes to provide a safe and instructive environment that identifies and addresses the unique challenges faced by emerging AAPI writers."
Western Writers of America Convention. June 17 - 20, 2026: St. Louis, Misouri. Children's, Fiction, Marketing, Non-fiction, Publishing, Young Adult. History presentations at the convention include Cats in the Old West, Border Wars/Law and Order, Mark Twain Literary Contributions, and more. Other sessions will take place related to the craft of writing, book marketing, and research sources and techniques.
The 2026 Writing Workshop of Chicago. June 20, 2026: Chicago, IL. This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
Sundress Academy: Summer Poetry Writing Retreat. June 20 - 21, 2026: Via Zoom. All SAFTA retreats focus on generative writing, and this year’s retreat will also include the following craft talk sessions: “When the Only Way Out Is Through: On Discomfort, Breaking, and Adaptation” as well as “Getting the Picture,” a workshop the seeks to hone the visual imagery of our writing by exploring the effect of this spectrum on both readers and writers, and by embodying visual images through personal somatic activities, social and scenic research, ekphrastic prompts, and more. Application deadline April 15, 2026.
Aspen Summer Words. June 21 - 26, 2026: Snowmass Village, Colorado. Workshops, panels, and readings in fiction and creative nonfiction, as well as opportunities to meet with agents and editors. "Aspen Summer Words is the Rocky Mountain gateway to the literary world. Recognized as one of the country’s pre-eminent literary conferences, Summer Words welcomes visitors and locals alike to celebrate writing and writers in Aspen for a week each June. The exceptional faculty and awe-inspiring mountain scenery combine to make this a writing retreat like no other." Juried workshops close on February 26. All other workshops are on a first come first serrved basis.
The Santa Barbara Writers Conference. June 21 – 26, 2026: Santa Barbara, Calif. "Every summer, writers in many genres from around the world gather to participate in a magical week of intensive work focused on story, voice, craft, marketing, and networking with fellow writers and publishing professionals."
Juniper Summer Writing Institute. June 21- 27, 2026: Amherst, MA. Daily workshops in poetry, fiction, & nonfiction; interactive craft sessions that include discussions & writing exercises; evening readings by faculty & writers-in-residence. Workshops and craft sessions are led by MFA candidates from the renowned University of Massachusetts MFA Program for Poets and Writers who design curricula especially for the Institute setting. The scholarship application deadline is January 5, 2026. The self-pay application deadline is February 15, 2026.
Chesapeake Writers' Conference at St. Mary's College of Maryland. June 21 - 27, 2026: St. Mary's City, Maryland. "Join us on Maryland’s Western Shore-for the Annual Chesapeake Writers’ Conference for a week of craft talks, lectures, panel discussions, and readings, as well as daily workshops in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, translation, songwriting, or creative nonfiction.
Novel-In-Progress Bookcamp & Speculative Fiction Writing Retreat. June 21- 27, 2026: Racine, Wisconsin. The Bookcamp offers morning instruction, an afternoon editing clinic, group critique sessions, discussions on the current publishing industry, one-on-one consultations with our staff, pitch sessions with literary agents and acquisition editors, and presentations on writing or publishing topics. Separate tracks for speculative fiction, and all genres.
New York State Summer Writers Institute at Skidmore College. June 21 - July 18, 2026: Saratoga Springs, NY. Since 1987, the Institute has been offering students the opportunity to learn from an extraordinary faculty of distinguished writers led by director Robert Boyers. The program is an offshoot of the New York State Writers Institute created by Albany native and Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Kennedy. The curriculum is designed for college-aged students and adults, and the new virtual format will retain many of the Institute’s hallmark features:
- Creative writing workshops in poetry, fiction and non-fiction
- Small classes that offer individualized attention and workshop student writings
- Public readings and afternoon Q & A sessions with world-renowned guest writers
- Private tutorial sessions for student fiction manuscripts, book-length poetry, or non-fiction (available for an additional fee)
- Option to enroll for one-week, two-week, or four-week sessions
- Optional undergraduate credit for eligible students enrolled in one genre for four weeks
- Merit Scholarships for tuition
The deadline for Scholarship Applications is March 7.
Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshops. June 21 – July 4, 2026 and July 12–25, 2026: Gambier, Ohio. At Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshops, talented high school students from around the world join a dynamic and supportive literary community to stretch their talents, discover new strengths, and challenge themselves in the company of peers who are also passionate about writing. Application deadline: March 1.
Christopher McKitterick Speculative Fiction Writing Workshop. June 21 - July 4, 2026: Lawrence, Kansas. Learn how to write SF that sells. Using the short-story form, we help you master the elements that create great stories. Since 1985. This annual two-week residential writing workshop helps established writers grow their skills while helping those who have just begun to publish or who need the final bit of insight or skill to master the elements that create great stories readers love and editors want to buy. Become part of a writing community: Award-winning author, SF scholar, long-time director of James Gunn's original SF research center, and Ad Astra SF Institute Director Christopher McKitterick has led this workshop since 2010, and served as guest author in James Gunn's SF Writers Workshop starting in 1995.
Fine Arts Work Center Summer Workshops (poetry, fiction, visual art, and creative nonfiction). June 21 - August 21, 2026: Provincetown, Massachusetts. "This year, we have lined up 65 extraordinary workshops in visual arts and creative writing over the course of nine weeks. We’ve brought together an outstanding group of instructors that includes many esteemed faculty members, along with many faces who are new to FAWC. We are confident that this dynamic combination of new and familiar faces will help create an inspiring atmosphere at FAWC that will invite students to take creative leaps." Housing is available at nearby guesthouses and inns; limited campus housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. See individual workshops for dates.
Clarion West Summer Writers Workshop. June 21 - August 1, 2026: Seattle, Washington. "The six-week workshop can give you time away from everyday distractions and encourage you to experiment and take artistic risks. The critique sessions are the heart of the workshop: you learn not only by receiving critiques, but by reading others’ work and constructing your own critiques. Instructors work directly with attendees to present group critiques of newly written stories, participate in discussions about writing techniques or professional concerns, and hold individual or small-group conferences. Throughout the entire experience, the Clarion West Workshop staff is present to help guide participants and facilitate an inclusive environment." Application deadline February 13.
Stonecoast Writers’ Conference. June 22 - 27, 2026: Portland, ME. "Your conference experience centers around the workshop. In these classes, your work (and the work of your peers) serves as the primary text. Faculty focus on providing constructive criticism that can help you unlock your writing. Class discussions provide opportunities to discuss theories and practical application of writing craft. Each instructor adapts their class to reflect the interest and abilities of the students. Generative writing exercises ensure that you’ll have threads of new work to follow after the conference ends. This summer we are offering three distinct workshop classes: Creative Writing, CNF and Memoir. Each workshop is limited to ten students.
Community of Writers at Squaw Valley: Poetry Workshop. June 22 - 28, 2026: Olympic Valley, California. "We work together to create an atmosphere in which everyone might feel free to try anything. In the mornings we meet in workshops to read to each other the work of the previous twenty-four hours; each participant also has an opportunity to work with each staff poet. In the late afternoons we gather for a conversation about some aspect of craft. On several afternoons staff poets hold brief individual conferences." Registration deadline: March 10.
Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference. June 23 - 26, 2026: Bemidji, Minnesota. Our faculty so far includes four members of the MNWC25 faculty: Jennifer Foerster (poetry), Toni Jensen (creative nonfiction), Douglas Kearney (poetry), and Joni Tevis (creative nonfiction). The award-winning novelist Debra Magpie Earling (fiction) and the acclaimed poet Layli Long Soldier will be joining the faculty this year. Please check our website periodically for updates. We will open registration in March.We hope to see you this coming June!
Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers. June 23 - 28, 2026: Wallowa Lake, Oregon. Join us this June at Wallowa Lake where you’re sure to get some writing done! Spend a week in community with fellow writers, learning from some of the best teaching artists in the West. Each weeklong workshop is limited to no more than 13 students, creating a brave space for you to explore your craft in new and creative ways. Registration includes your five-day workshop, plus craft talks, featured author readings, panel discussions, open mics, discussions, and much more. Workshops offered include fiction, nonfiction, memoir, and poetry.
Chuckanut Writers Conference. June 25 - 27, 2026: Bellingham, Washington. Writers conference that includes speakers, panels, breakout sessions, authors' readings, reception with authors, pitch sessions with literary agents, book signings, open mic for attendees. Autobiography/Memoir, Children's, Fiction, Nature, Non-fiction, Poetry, Publishing.
David R Collins Conference Faculty & Workshops. June 25 - 27, 2026: Rock Island, IL. Daily workshops, critiques, pitches, evening events, keynote.
In Your Write Mind Workshop. June 25 - 28, 2026: Greensburg, Pennsylvania. This is an annual, alumni-run writers workshop. It features writing-related classes, agent pitch sessions, a book signing, and other special events. Open to the public.
New York Pitch Conference. June 25 - 28, 2026: NY, NY. The New York Pitch Conference and writers workshop is held four times a year and features publishing house editors from major houses such as Penguin, Random House, St. Martins, Harper Collins, Tor and Del Rey, Kensington Books and many more who are looking for new novels in a variety of genres, as well as narrative non-fiction. The event focuses on the art of the novel pitch as the best method not only for communicating your work, but for having you and your work taken seriously by industry professionals.
Writing for the Educational Market. June 25 - July 30, 2026: Online. Learn the ins and outs of writing for the educational market in this 6-week course. Hosted by experienced industry professionals, this workshop will get you up to speed quickly and prepare you for submitting your work to publishers. 30 participants max.
Writers' League of Texas. June 26-28, 2026: Austin, Texas. "The WLT’s Agents & Editors Conference is one of the nation’s premier conferences for writers. Every year, we bring together nationally-known literary agents and book editors and other industry professionals with writers at all stages of the writing process for a weekend of conversation and community around the craft of writing and the practical steps toward publication. For writers with finished manuscripts, the conference’s one-on-one consultations with agents and editors offer a unique opportunity to pitch their work directly to publishing professionals. For writers working toward a completed manuscript, the conference’s genre meet-ups, panels, presentations, and general sessions offer an abundance of useful information and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere for informal chats with agents, published authors, and fellow writers from all genres and backgrounds."
JUNE 2025
Clarksville Writers Conference. June 4 - 6, 2025: Clarksville, TN. Two days of writing workshops and presentations, a keynote banquet with the authors, and manuscript consultations.
Indiana University Writers’ Conference. June 5 - 8, 2025: Indiana University in Bloomington. Each summer, the conference invites gifted writers of fiction, poetry and nonfiction to teach workshops and craft classes over the course of four days. The workshops consist of three-hour sessions held each morning in which students exchange manuscripts and offer feedback on the work of their peers under the guidance of their instructor. At the end of each day’s workshop, students are invited to lunch talks where the faculty discuss their publishing experiences and answer questions from attendees. The afternoons are comprised of three, one-hour classes led by additional faculty on topics ranging from story structure and the ethics of writing nonfiction to crafting compelling images in poems. Each evening is capped off by a reading and from conference faculty. On Hiatus
JUNE 2024
Sundress Academy for the Arts: From Selfie to Poetry: Writing the Self-Portrait Poem. June 12, 2024: Online. In this generative workshop, we will explore the self-portrait poem and what it means to explicitly make the self—as messy and resistant to definition as it is—the subject of our poems. We’ll take inspiration from visual arts as well as contemporary poetry to draft new work and expand our poetic selves.
Hedgebrook: Virtual Radical Craft Retreat with Claire Dederer. June 22 - 26, 2024: Whidbey Island, WA. "Radical Craft Retreats combine Hedgebrook's retreat experience with the unique opportunity to study with an experienced and celebrated instructor. Participation in each class is limited, to ensure individual attention, and create an intimate, supportive writing community."
JULY 2026
First Friday Book Talk & Reading with Patricia Henley July 3, 2026: via Zoom. Patricia Henley’s fifth collection of short stories, Apple & Palm, was published by Cornerstone Press in 2026.
Summer Camp for Writers and Illustrators: Session One! July 8 - 12, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. Our Summer Camp is a not-to-be-missed experience with 1:1 mentorship, educational and inspirational keynotes, breakout sessions in your chosen track, a community of fellow creatives, time to create, and lots of fun!
Community of Writers Workshop in Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, and Memoir. July 10 - 17, 2026: Olympic Valley, California. These workshops assist serious writers by exploring the art and craft as well as the business of writing. The week offers daily morning workshops, craft lectures, panel discussions on editing and publishing, staff readings, as well as brief individual conferences. The morning workshops are led by staff writer-teachers, editors, or agents. There are separate morning workshops for Fiction and Narrative Nonfiction/ Memoir. In addition to their workshop manuscript, participants may have a second manuscript read by a staff member who meets with them in an individual conference. During the week, a portion of our workshops is devoted exclusively to nonfiction. Memoir, narrative nonfiction, and essays are invited. Literary criticism and scholarly work will not be considered. Nonfiction applicants can use the same general form for submission. Application deadline March 10.
Summer Camp for Writers and Illustrators: Session Two! July 12 - 16, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. Our Summer Camp is a not-to-be-missed experience with 1:1 mentorship, educational and inspirational keynotes, breakout sessions in your chosen track, a community of fellow creatives, time to create, and lots of fun!
Port Townsend Writers’ Conference. July 12 - 19, 2026: Port Townsend, Washington. workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft lectures, readings, open mics, and time to write. "The Port Townsend Writers’ Conference has been since 1974 at the wild heart of the thriving Pacific Northwest literary scene. With a focus on community and rigorous attention to craft, the Conference offers morning workshops, afternoon workshops, residencies, guided freewrites, and a vibrant readings and lectures series presented by vital, contemporary writers."
Sewanee Writers’ Conference. July 14 - 26, 2026: Sewanee, TN. Faculty will give readings and provide instruction and criticism through workshops and craft lectures, as well as meet individually with participants to discuss their manuscripts. The Conference will offer five fiction workshops, four poetry workshops, and a playwriting workshop supported by two professional actors. In addition, a substantial number of literary agents will attend. Application deadline March 1.
Romance Writers of America. July 15 - 18, 2026: Albuquerque, NM. Whether you're new to romance writing, an established author, or anywhere in between, there’s something for everyone—dynamic workshops, exciting community activities, and much more to elevate your career and connect with fellow writers.
Southampton Writers Conference. July 15 - 19, 2026: Long Island, NY. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and publishing, as well as readings, lectures, and a master class series. Creative writing workshops are the heart and soul of the summer experience, meeting four afternoons or mornings throughout the session. Enrollment is limited to 13 lucky writers who have applied with writing samples. Those accepted have the privilege of sharing their work in an intimate, rigorous and friendly setting.
Writercon Retreat. July 15 - 19, 2026: Wagoner, OK. Join us for a five-day, small-group writing retreat at the 300-acre Canebrake Resort in Wagoner, OK, on Ft. Gibson lake. Our retreat group will have the resort to ourselves with paths to hike, a pool to enjoy, bikes to ride and much more!
Midwest Writers Workshop. July 16 - 18, 2026: Muncie, Indiana. Craft and business sessions, agent pitches, manuscript evaluations. MWW includes quality instruction by a faculty of authors, agents, editors, and specialists. Will be held online and in person.
North Carolina Writers' Network Squire Summer Writing Workshops. July 16 - 19, 2026: Boone, North Carolina. The Squire Summer Writing Workshops offer an intensive course in a chosen genre (creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry) over the four days of the program. Space in each workshop is limited, so that registrants can work in-depth on their own manuscript samples, as well as their colleagues’, while also studying the principles of the genre with their instructor.
Mystery Writers Conference. July 17 - 19, 2026: Corte Madera, CA. In this conference, mystery writers learn the clues to a successful writing career. Editors, agents, and publishers tell participants what they need to know to get published. Authors offer classes on setting, dialogue, suspense, point of view, and openings. They tell how to write about private eyes, amateur sleuths, and police protagonists, and how to create thrillers and historical mysteries. Panels of detectives, forensic experts, police, and other crime-fighting professionals provide information that allows crime fiction writers to put realism in their work.
Imaginarium. July 17 - 19, 2026: Louisville KY. A three day annual event held in Louisville, Kentucky centered entirely around creative writing, including the worlds of books, movies, gaming, music, and comics/graphic novels. Imaginarium Convention features extensive programming content, with panels and workshops presented by over 150 professional guests covering everything from the craft of writing to various genres, industry-specific topics, publishing, and social media/publicity. The convention features a film festival with a full array of awards, a masquerade/costume contest, live music, gaming, an expo open to the general public, an awards banquet, a series of literary awards called the Imadjinns, and many more activities, creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that is content-rich and ideal for networking, promotion and personal development.
Taylor's Professional Writers Conference. July 23 - 25, 2026: Upland, Indiana. Sponsored by Taylor University's nationally recognized Professional Writing major, this conference stresses tools and tips for getting your writing into print. You'll learn from professional writers and network with agents and editors who can take you to the next level in your writing.
Writer's Digest Annual Conference. July 23 - 25, 2026: New Brunswick, New Jersey. Writer's Digest Annual Conference offers everything you need to advance your writing career creatively and professionally. Gain invaluable tips to improve your craft, explore publishing options and learn how to establish a sustainable career—all while being inspired by successful authors and your fellow attendees. It’s all brought to you by Writer’s Digest, the experts at nurturing and developing writers at every stage of their career for over 100 years.
Cascade Three-day Critique Workshop. July 23 – 26, 2026: Bremerton, WA. "Our Three-Day Critique Workshop is an opportunity for you to submit the first 4000 words of your novel, short story, or whatever project you are working on, for critique in a group of up to 8 peers led by an industry professional. This is a great way to polish up those first pages and first chapter. Submissions are due six weeks before the event via our Discord Channel. Registrants will receive login information a few weeks before submissions are due. There will also be one-hour workshops and panel presentations on craft, querying, the publishing industry, and more. Optional casual gatherings provide opportunities to get to know other writers as well as authors, editors, and agents."
The 2026 New England Writing Workshop. July 24 - 25, 2026: Online. This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total).
Confluence-SFF. July 24 - 26, 2026: Coraopolis, PA. Located at the birthplace of the Ohio River, Confluence is Pittsburgh’s longest-running literary conference with a strong focus on science fiction, fantasy and horror. Award-winning authors, editors, artists and song-writers gather for three full days.
Napa Valley Writers’ Conference. July 26 - 31, 2026: Napa, California. While conference lectures and readings are open to the public, the heart of the experience — the daily workshop, with the opportunity to give and receive feedback on work in progress — is available only to participants. It’s through this intense process that new and established writers interact most meaningfully and forge the bonds that give the conference community life beyond the annual conference week. Application deadline April 20.
Mendocino Coast Writers Conference. July 30 - August 1, 2026: Mendocino, California. The Mendocino Coast Writers’ Conference is a vibrant gathering that offers Morning Workshops in a wide range of genres. Afternoons are packed with craft seminars, panels, one-on-one consultations, and open mics; and every evening offers an opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie and connection that make this conference, in the words of one participant, “life changing.” The registration deadline is June 30.
Cape Cod Writers Center Conference. July 30 - August 2, 2026: Hyannis, Massachusetts. Supporting published and aspiring writers. Featuring distinguished authors, editors and agents in workshops on fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, poetry, mysteries and thrillers, social media, promotion and more!
Willamette Writers Conference. July 30 - August 2, 2026: Portland, Oregon. Three full days of classes, workshops, keynotes, critiques, and events. There are also Master Classes with industry professionals in which you can learn from top instructors in a small group setting and many options for one on one critique, including On the Spot Critiques and Advance Manuscript Critique. As always, they will have a roster of agents, editors and film executives ready to hear about your project.
Florida Authors and Publishers Association Annual Conference. July 31 - August 1, 2026: Lake Buena Vista, Florida. "Six (6) optional small-group workshops are being scheduled, offering attendees options a more intimate setting to learn about specific topics related to the publishing industry. These focused workshops will be offered a la carte and are scheduled so that you may register for up to three (3).
The Creativity Workshop in New York. July 31 - August 3, 2026: New York, New York. "The Creativity Workshops take away the fear of writing and open the way to new ideas. They are especially helpful for writers in fiction, poetry, memoir, theatre and film to get over writing blocks. In our Creativity Workshop Retreats you will generate both new work and ideas for the work you are in the midst of creating. We use many different techniques to help you find your way through the novel, essay, poem, memoir, or script you are writing or hope to write. In The Creativity Workshop you will be doing free writing, writing from guided visualizations, collaborative writing, journaling and memoir work and even some rudimentary drawing, collage and photography."
JULY 2025
Young Writers Workshop. July 6 - 26, 2025: Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Restrictions: For students completing grades 9, 10, 11. Three 90-minute workshop sessions daily, including imaginative writing activities and discussion of readings. Weekly individual meetings with workshop instructor. Focus is on using various forms of creative writing to develop language and thinking skills.
ASLE Biennial Conference. July 8 - 11, 2025: University of Maryland, College Park. "ASLE seeks to inspire and promote intellectual work in the environmental humanities and arts. Our vision is an inclusive community whose members are committed to environmental research, education, literature, art and service, environmental justice, and ecological sustainability.
Joy? More Serious Than You Think. July 9, 2025: Online. We’re all familiar with the daily cruelties and horrors of the world we live in. It takes no effort to conjure them in the mind. Given the circumstances “at a time like this,” it can often seem like it’s impossible to write about joy. The reality, of course, being that it is always going to be a time like this. Writing about joy, when done right, doesn’t shy away from these daily horrors. To do so would make it trite, a hollow platitude. Through examining poems from Lucille Clifton, Ross Gay, and Danez Smith this workshop aims to demonstrate how joy is not a naive, head-in-the-sand subject, but rather, as Ross Gay writes in Inciting Joy, a “serious” one; something that can be cultivated/relied upon in spite of and/or throughout periods of immense pain and tumult. Students will be shown a variety of ways to write about joy.
Intro to Novels in Verse: Drafting and Deepening Your Story. July 10 - 31, 2025. Novels in verse are a celebrated storytelling form. They are packed with emotion, alongside a tight pace and deeply resonating character arcs. If you are just beginning on your journey into novels in verse and wonder how to get your idea into a first draft, this course is for you. 24 participants max.
Sundress Academy: Trans/Nonbinary Writing Retreat. July 12 - 13, 2025: Via Zoom. The event will be open to trans and nonbinary writers of all backgrounds and experience levels and provide an opportunity to work with many talented authors and poets from around the country, including workshop leaders Joy Ladin and SG Huerta, and keynote speaker Dani Putney, whose address is titled “A Stake through the Heart: On Duende, Vulnerability, and the Self in Creative Writing.” Cost $75. Sold out.
Getting Into Your Story: An Editor’s Perspective. July 13, 2025: Online. The editor of Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine shares her observations of common problems she sees in the stories that get rejected and discusses one technique to address some of those problems. Free.
Summer Camp in Writing: Create and Dream! July 13 -17, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. Our Summer Camp in Writing is a time to find the kind of encouragement for your stories that only a generous mentor can provide. To find inspiration and support. To be with a community that understands the long process of turning dreams into books for children. To work 1:1 and fine-tune your words and pitches while you have some fun. Waitlisted.
Picture Book Essentials: A Two-Night Mini for Picture Book Writers. July 15 - 17, 2025: Online. Picture books may be short, but writing them is no small task! Join award-winning author Darcy Pattison and author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski for a two-session deep dive into the essential elements that turn your ideas into engaging picture books!
Saskatchewan Festival of Words. July 17 - 20, 2025: Moose Jaw, Canada. Workshops for all ages, reading sessions, concerts, film, panel discussions, interviews, music, theatre, a slam poetry competition as well as workshops and author readings.
Colrain Classic. July 25 - 28, 2025. "The Colrain Manuscript Classic is a highly focused, 3-day conference designed for poets with manuscripts in progress. The Classic features in-depth pre-conference work and candid, realistic evaluation and feedback from nationally-known poets, editors and publishers. In preparation, participants work at home on pre-conference assignments and then, in the workshop, review, arrange, and winnow their work based on the pre-conference work. In addition to the manuscript preparation workshop, manuscript workshop and editorial sessions, there will be an editorial Q&A, and an after-conference strategy session." On Zoom.
Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators Annual Conference. July 31 - August 3, 2025: Via Zoom. More than 100 writers, editors, illustrators, & agents. Workshops, breakout sessions, manuscript and portfolio consultations, panels, discussions. Will be held online.
JULY 2024
The Cambridge Writers’ Workshop Summer Writing Retreat. July 19 - 27, 2024: Budapest & Prague. The retreat offers participating writers of all genres and levels to work alongside award-winning authors and editors. Participating writers will hone their craft and expand their writing skills, while working on new or existing projects. Tuition is $3,875, which includes lodging in central Paris, creative writing workshops and writing seminars with our supportive and award-winning faculty8of writers and editors, and daily breakfast. Register by June 1, 2024.
JULY 2023
Catamaran Writing Conference: Poetry. July 30 - August 3, 2023: Pebble Beach, CA. The workshop meets four mornings and each participant will receive focused feedback from the group on their poems. You'll be invited to submit a writing sample for group feedback. Optional participant readings will be held. During registration you will be invited to indicate your poetry workshop instructor preference. Will return in 2026.
AUGUST 2026
Frost Place Poetry Seminar. August 2 - 6, 2026: Online. The Seminar schedule features a daily presentation/discussion exploring aspects of craft and technique, an afternoon workshop of participants’ poems or individual, virtual meetings with faculty, and an evening reading, some by faculty poets and others featuring participants. Will be held online.
First Friday Book Talk & Reading Series. August 7, 2025: Zoom. First Friday Book Talk & Reading with Lisa Knopp, Author of Ravelings: Essays on Love, Loss, and Wonder
Into the Springs Writers Workshop. August 7 - 9, 2026: Yellow Springs, OH. Into the Springs is a full weekend of shared sessions, events and lunch, making your interaction with featured guest instructors and writer participants easily accessible.
Travel Writers & Photographers Conference. August 7 – 9, 2026: Corte Madera, Calif. Writing and photography workshops in the morning, a full afternoon of panels and discussions, and evening faculty presentations. There are optional, working field trips to explore the resources of the Bay Area. The faculty includes publishers, magazine editors, photographers, travel essayists, food writers, restaurateurs, guidebook writers, and more.
VCFA Writers' Conference. August 8 - 14, 2026: Valencia, CA. At the heart of the conference is its distinctive workshop model—intimate groups of six writers led by a member of our acclaimed faculty. This structure allows for sustained, in-depth engagement with each participant's manuscript. In addition to daily workshops, every writer receives an individual, hour-long consultation with their instructor, ensuring focused, one-on-one attention. The conference includes workshops in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, romance, young adult, and writing for the screen, guided by four pillars: Community (building lasting creative relationships), Inspiration (renewing artistic energy and vision), Craft (deep, rigorous engagement with the work itself), and Industry (practical insight into publishing and professional pathways).
Get Away to Write - Vermont. August 9 - 14, 2026: Grafton, VT. Combine an extended writing retreat with a relaxing summer vacation in the picturesque mountains of Vermont. This getaway blends our trademark challenging and supportive workshop experience with plenty of free time for you to write and bask in the refreshing New England summer. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced writer, you will return home energized by the tranquil setting and excited to continue writing.
Odyssey Writing Workshop. August 10, 2026 (12 weeks): Online. Since its inception in 1996, Odyssey has become one of the most highly respected workshops for writers of fantasy, science fiction, and horror. Will be held online. Application deadline April 10.
Bread Loaf Writers' Conference. August 12 - 22, 2026: Ripton, VT. Workshops in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction are at the core of the conference. Each faculty member conducts a workshop that meets for five two-hour sessions over the course of the 10 days. Groups are kept small to facilitate discussion, and all participants meet individually with their faculty leaders to elaborate on workshop comments. Faculty members also offer lectures on issues around literary writing and one-hour classes on specific aspects of the craft. Readings by the faculty, conference participants, and guests take place throughout the day and into the night. Participants meet with visiting editors, literary agents, and publishers who provide information and answer questions, individually or in small groups. Application deadline March 15.
Poetry at the Frost Farm. August 14 - 16, 2026: Derry, New Hampshire. The retreat offers workshops, readings, and one-on-one consultations for formalist poets. "Join a small community of people at the historic Robert Frost Farm learning, reading and writing formal poetry with contemporary award-winning poets. Choose your focus from a series of offerings designed to provide tools for beginning poets as well as perfect the mastery of published poets."
Whole Novel Workshop: An In-Person Retreat for Novelists. August 15 - 20, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. This intensive, transformative Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft (up to 85,000 words) of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and two private consultations provided.
Killer Nashville Writers’ Conference. August 20 - 23, 2026: Nashville, TN. The Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference was created in 2006 by author/filmmaker Clay Stafford in an effort to bring together forensic experts, writers, and fans of crime and thriller literature. "At the conference, we try diligently to ensure that the weekend has something for every writer and lover of literature, and our sessions are structured to assist writers on multiple career levels. Our learning tracks tackle the craft of writing, business of writing, marketing, and forensics. Killer Nashville features nine breakout sessions for intense smaller group interaction, an authors’ bar (free for hotel guests), a moonshine and wine tasting, free agent/editor roundtable pitch sessions, a mock crime scene designed by special agents and other law enforcement professionals, cocktail receptions, the Guest of Honor Dinner and Awards Banquet, film previews, live music performances and—of course—all the great activities one can enjoy in downtown Nashville."
Bookgardan: A Year's Sustenance for Women Writers. August 2026 to August 2027. "Bring your book project and your literary practice to full fruition in Bookgardan, a year-long program of sustained, one-on-one mentorship and advanced craft curriculum created by an acclaimed writer, seasoned editor, and devoted & inspiring literary mentor, shared with an intimate cohort of like-minded literary artists. Hone your work-in-progress, develop your technical expertise, and refine your inimitable artistic process over twelve months bookended by two full retreat weeks as fall writers-in-residence at Craigardan, an interdisciplinary mountainside residency program for artists in the majestic Adirondacks of upstate New York. Now enrolling its fifth cohort, Bookgardan is unlike any other writing program, book incubator, or literary mentorship. Designed for women writers with book-length, literary fiction and creative nonfiction projects, created in partnership with a residential artists’ program that fosters collaboration and cross-fertilization among artists, and intentional in its goal of building a lasting, mutually. supportive community of women writers, at Bookgardan’s heart is Kate Moses’ passionate dedication to helping other women writers realize their vision for their work, made manifest in the unstinting one-on-one mentorships she forges with each writer and their book."
AUGUST 2025
Northwestern University Summer Writers’ Conference. August 2, 2025: Online. The conference is hosted by the Northwestern University School of Professional Studies MA in Writing and MFA in Prose and Poetry programs. Will be held online.
Poetry, Memory, and Creative Flow: A Generative Two-Night Mini. August 5 - 7, 2025: Online. xplore the power of poetry to connect with your roots, ignite new ideas, and transform your writing in these two inspiring sessions with award-winning author Aida Salazar.
Black Voices: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers. August 7 - 10, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. This 3-night/4-day retreat is designed to spark your creativity and foster connections with fellow storytellers. Join Valerie Bolling, Jas Hammonds, and fellow storytellers for this in-community retreat for Black writers and illustrators. With a loosely structured schedule, the Black Voices retreat allows you ample time and space to engage in writing, illustrating, or simply exploring. We will host a virtual Q & A with editor Sydnee Monday from Kokila Books.
3rd Annual Idlewild Writers Conference. August 8 - 9, 2025: Idlewild, MI. Two-day writers conference with readings, workshops, manuscript consultations and a book fair. Gary Copeland Lilley, Poet-in-Residence.
Don't you wonder sometimes…about sound and vision? — a fiction non-fiction freewrite event with Kate Copeland. August 9, 2025: Online. The gift of Sound & Vision…right what David Bowie showed us! And so many others…The Go-Go’s got the beat, Aretha sang of Respect for a Natural Woman. Adding to this: in motion pictures we see working girls and hidden figures, plus Thelma, Louise and Frida too. In this 90 minute workshop, we will look at the harmony between song, film, words and the brain hemispheres! The non-fiction part is composed of lyrical memory, linguistic film theory, and prosody in poetry and linguistics.Working Retreat: Novels in Verse. August 10 - 13, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. Verse Novelists, Novelists, and Poets, join Rajani LaRocca and Chris Baron for time to create and connect. Ideal for those working on a verse novel at any level, even in the idea stage.
Murphy Writing of Stockton University: Live Free and Write. August 10 - 15, 2025: Sunapee, NH. "Combine an extended writing retreat with a relaxing summer vacation in the picturesque mountains of New Hampshire. This getaway blends our trademark challenging and supportive workshop experience with plenty of free time for you to write and bask in the refreshing New England summer."
Getting the Gig: A Two-Night Mini on Speaking Opportunities for Storytellers. August 12 - 14, 2025: Online. Whether you want to set up school visits, participate in literary festivals, and/or pitch your ideas to storyteller organizations, Alyssa Reynoso-Morris wants to help you “get the gig!" and "get paid!"
Multimedia Writing: Hybrid Prose/Poetry. August 13, 2025: Online. This virtual workshop will be an introduction to multimedia writing, a hybrid genre that refers to writing in which multiple types of media are used in evocative, resonant, and innovative ways. We will unpack multimedia approaches through a range of forms including cine-poetry and collage using exploratory questions such as: How can incorporating other forms of media / a variety of elements beyond text enhance the intended impact of a poem? What questions, tensions, and complications can help guide you through the multimedia, hybrid creative process? In this workshop we will engage with form-ranging projects from writers including Victoria Chang, Claudia Rankine, Jennifer S. Cheng, Eloisa Amezcua, and more. The workshop will also provide time to free write and share work, to talk about how the writing process felt/went, and to share resources as well as further recommended reading.Nonfiction Retreat: Science, Nature, Biography, and More. August 13 - 16, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA.. If you have an idea or draft of a nonfiction project and need a little support to move your work ahead, this retreat is for you! You’ll enjoy presentations, guided outdoor experiences, small group discussions of your work, and so much more with nonfiction writers Miranda Paul, Heather L. Montgomery, and their guests. Waitlisted.
Hurston/Wright Summer Writers Week. August 14 - 18, 2025: Rutgers. For more than 20 years, the Hurston/Wright Summer Writers Workshop has offered a safe space for Black writers in intensive workshop sessions and master classes. Workshops are led by award-winning writers who are influencing today’s literature. The program features critiques, craft talks, writing time and public readings. Hurston/Wright workshops serve emerging and experienced writers who are starting projects, developing projects or seeking to polish projects. More than a thousand writers have participated in workshops since the first session in 1996. See website for individual workshops.
#HFGather: Writing for and Writing WITH Kids. August 18, 2025: Online. Join us for our next free HFGather exploring what it means to write with kids, and why discovering how to write with kids is an important skill for those who write for kids! Free.
Big Picture Revision: A Two-Night Mini with Editor Harold Underdown. August 19 - 21, 2025: Online. Get a smart, strategic boost for your manuscript with Harold Underdown’s quick-hit course on 'big picture' revision techniques for children's writers.
Colrain Classic. August 22 - 25, 2025: Online. "The Colrain Manuscript Classic is a highly focused, 3.5 day conference designed for poets with manuscripts in progress. The Classic features in-depth pre-conference work and candid, realistic evaluation and feedback from nationally-known poets, editors and publishers. In preparation, participants work at home on pre-conference assignments and then, in the workshop, review, arrange, and winnow their work based on the pre-conference work. In addition to the manuscript preparation workshop and editor sessions, there will be an editorial Q&A, and an after-conference strategy session." Will be conducted online.
PJ Library Retreat: Picture Book Summer Camp. August 24 - 28, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. "If you’re a pre-published author with a Jewish picture book in progress (or no more than one published book) we invite you to apply for five-days of inspiration, mentorship, fun, and creativity on the beautiful campus of Boyds Mills." Application deadline March 16.
The Gathering. August 30 - September 1, 2025. Workshops in poetry as well as readings. 2-hour Workshops & Readings Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday. Participant Open Mics Friday and Saturday night. Will be held on Zoom.
AUGUST 2024
The Writers Studio is sponsored by the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program. August 1 - 4, 2024: Westwood Village, CA. The conference offers workshops in fiction and creative nonfiction, as well as writing for television and film. Offered by the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program, the Writers Studio brings together a community of writing students to workshop with some of Southern California’s most accomplished writers and teachers. From among the 10 offered, participants choose one workshop in which they work closely with a professional writer in classes limited to no more than 15 people.
IWWG Summer Writers Conference. August 1 - 5, 2024: Bristol, RI. Writing Together, IWWG’s 2024 Summer Conference, will take place August 1-5 on the beautiful, seaside campus of Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island. Join us for this once-a-year immersive weekend; experience Community, Connection, and Creativity in the company of women Writing Together.
The Language of Smell: A Generative Writing Workshop. August 10, 2024: Lincoln, NE. This generative workshop will focus on the power of smell and sense memory in writing practice. Participants will have a chance to produce their own writing using guided prompts, as well as learn and discuss what makes smell such a sharply evocative and emotional sense memory. We will also briefly explore the world of niche perfumery in order to practice our skills of descriptive scent-based writing using provided fragrance samples.
SEPTEMBER 2026
From Idea & Sketch to Dummy & Submission: An Author/Illustrator Online Course. September 2 - October 7, 2026: Online. If you are illustrating AND writing your own book, and wondering how to prepare your submission, this is the course for you. You will focus on the craft of writing and illustrating a picture book with an intense level of feedback from faculty Courtney Pippin-Mathur and special guests, Natasha Khan Kazi and Aram Kim. Participants who complete all assignments should be able to finish or revise a working dummy (mocked up book) in its entirety during the course, preparing for submission to editors, agents, or art directors. 24 participants max.
DragonCon. September 3 - September 7, 2026: Atlanta, Ga. HUGE sci-fi event, with parade, autograph sessions, live performances, readings, wrestling (!), workshops on belly dancing, writing (yes, there's even some writing), art show. (This conference sounds really wild.)
WriterCon. September 4 - 7, 2026: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The annual WriterCon Conference is three days of 60+ speakers providing more than 80 sessions designed to cover all genres and all aspects of the writing experience: skills, industry knowledge, opportunities, networking, pitching, contests, opportunities to meet with writers privately, to obtain manuscript reviews or private consultations, and much more.
Inkubator Writing Conference. September 11 - 12, 2026: Cleveland, OH. Literary Cleveland's Inkubator Writing Conference is one of the largest free writing conferences in the country, providing workshops, craft talks, panel discussions, readings, and more to empower writers, celebrate literary excellence, and amplify diverse voices.
The Algonkian Writer Retreat and Novel Workshop. September 16 - 20, 2025: Algonkian Park, Virginia. "You can show us your manuscript, improve your skills, clear your head, have your work read by our writer mentors, whatever works for you, whatever helps you grow and discover your vision as a writer. You discuss with us ahead of time via the Algonkian Writer Retreat Application the goals you wish to accomplish, and we'll work with you to make it happen. Do you desire a review? A line edit? Do you wish to discuss the reality of the current fiction market, your novel project, plot and characters, or perhaps get feedback on the opening hook or a few sample chapters? Or would you simply like a relaxed and productive dialogue about your goals as a writer?"
Writing On The Door: Washington Island Literary Festival. September 17 - 19, 2026: Washington Island, Wisconsin. "The Washington Island Literary Festival is a moveable feast of writing, reading, discussion, and thought about the written word. Writers’ workshops, author panels and presentations, readings and parties are scheduled at various quaint, historic and beautiful venues around the Island. Participants have a unique opportunity to share time with prominent authors and dedicated readers in the intimate, friendly setting of Washington Island, a half-hour by ferry from the Door County mainland, in September’s color and warmth."
Creatures, Crimes & Creativity. September 18 - 20, 2026: Columbia, MD. A writer's and fan's conference for genre fiction covering mystery, suspense, thriller, sci-fi, fantasy, steampunk & horror.
11th Annual Broadleaf Writers Conference. September 18 - 20, 2026: Decatur, Georgia. "With one of the strongest list of authors you will ever find at a conference, we’ve added even more agents, editors and publisher representatives than ever before! Combined with educational sessions and workshops, the Annual Broadleaf Writers Conference will offer you all that you need to refine and improve your craft."
Brooklyn Book Festival. September 20 - 28, 2026: Brooklyn, NY. The mission of the Brooklyn Book Festival (BKBF) is to celebrate published literature and nurture a literary cultural community through programming that cultivates and connects readers of diverse ages and backgrounds with local, national and international authors, publishers and booksellers. To this end the Brooklyn Book Festival develops original programming that is hip, smart, diverse, and inclusive and presents free, literary, cultural events at the Brooklyn Book Festival Day & Literary Marketplace, Virtual Festival Day, and the family friendly Children’s Day. Additionally, BKBF presents Bookend events in venues across NYC and on-line, which are overwhelmingly presented free to the public.
Algonkian Writer Conference–New York City Write to Pitch. September 24 - 27, 2026: Ripley-Grier Studios in New York City. The New York Pitch Conference and writers workshop is held four times a year and features publishing house editors from major houses such as Penguin, Random House, St. Martins, Harper Collins, Tor and Del Rey, Kensington Books and many more who are looking for new novels in a variety of genres, as well as narrative non-fiction. The event focuses on the art of the novel pitch as the best method not only for communicating your work, but for having you and your work taken seriously by industry professionals.
Central Coast Writers' Conference. September 25 - 26, 2026: San Luis Obispo, CA. "We are excited to announce our Cuesta College Central Coast Writers’ Conference returns again this year in a two-day format with a theme of Say Yes! Join us at the college’s San Luis Obispo campus on Friday and Saturday, September 25 & 26, 2026 as we celebrate 42 years of bringing writers of all backgrounds and experience levels together. It’s no surprise CCWC was named the “Best Conference in the West” by Writers Magazine, as our organizers and volunteers work together to ensure attendees enjoy insightful dialogue, networking opportunities, and unrivaled access to an esteemed staff of presenters."
Futurescapes. September 26 - 27, 2026: Online. Futurescapes is an intensive, exclusive workshop, offering writers an unparalleled chance to work with top authors and agents in speculative fiction (science fiction, horror, fantasy, paranormal). This summer, we’ll be exploring the first 100 pages of your manuscript. The workshop sessions will require work outside of meeting times as there is a generative nature to it. This workshop is smaller and more competitive than our regular workshop. In addition to workshopping a larger portion of your manuscript (25,000 words), we’ll have plenty of unstructured and semi-structured time to network with fellow students and faculty. August 1, 2026 — Orientation.
Travel & Words: Northwest Travel Writers Conference. September 28 - 30, 2026: Skagit Valley, Washington. TRAVEL & WORDS offers a multi-faceted conference for travel journalists interested in exploring Northwest destinations. The primary focus of the conference is to connect journalists with destinations throughout the Northwest. Attendees will have one-on-one meetings with destination marketers to learn about their destination and lay a foundation for productive working relationships. In addition, attendees will enjoy expert presentations about current topics in travel content publishing and have plenty of opportunities for networking and exploring the host destination. In more than a decade of conferences, Travel & Words has become an important force in the Northwest travel industry. Travel & Words is by invitation only. There is no registration fee for journalists.
SEPTEMBER 2025
Star Island Writing Retreat. September 1 - 5, 2025: Star Island, Portsmouth, NH. During our four and one-half days together, we write from prompts designed to awaken creativity you didn’t even know you had. We write by candlelight in a stone chapel. We write in rattan rockers on a wraparound porch. We write with a view of the ocean in all directions. We gather on the porch for magnificent sunsets. We write with the sound of waves and gulls. We pick up writing techniques from other writers, from the collection of articles prepared by the presenter, and from the presenter’s personal experience.
Expressing Your Voice: A Two-Night Workshop for YA & MG Novelists. September 8 - 10, 2025: Online. Join editor Kat Brzozowski and author Anna-Marie McLemore to explore creating distinct and engaging voice and authentic dialogue on the page. While a strong voice in MG & YA novels is a must, getting it right is often elusive. Kat and Anna-Marie will explore where voice comes from—inner conflicts, outside pressures, personal values, experiences, identity—and how to make sure it lands convincingly in dialogue.
Writing and Publishing Books for Young Readers. September 9 - October 7, 2025: Online. We’ll read and discuss excerpts from impactful children’s books, both classic and current, and analyze why they work so well. Weekly generative prompts will inspire you whether you’re just beginning your kidlit adventure, or you’re already working on a piece and want to hone it further. Bring your desire to write for children and/or young adults, an open mind and a childlike sense of adventure!
Middle Grade Writers: A Generative Retreat. September 10 - 13, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. Immerse yourself in the generative writing process and try new, hands-on techniques to spark creativity, connect, unwind, and generate new pages (or revive old ones). Waitlisted.
PNWA Conference. September 11 - 14, 2025: Seattle, Washington. Sponsored by the Pacific Northwest Writers Association. More than 50 seminars, editor/agent forums & appointments, practice pitching, keynote and featured speakers, reception, awards ceremony. Many agents and editors attending. Will be held in person.
A Public Space's 2025 Weekend Writers' Retreat. September 11 - 14: Tivoli, New York. The APS Weekend Writers' Retreat is an opportunity to nurture new work and expand and explore technique. The retreat will include morning workshops with limited participants (5 to 7 per workshop); afternoon literary talks; and an array of evening events, including readings and a Saturday BBQ. There will also be opportunities for informal conversations with authors and editors and independent generative exercises, as well as complimentary tickets to events at Kaatsbaan's Annual Festival. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. There is no fee to apply. Applicants must be 21 years of age by September 1, 2025, to apply. Capacity is limited, and applying early is recommended.
The Alabama Writers' Conclave. September 12 - 14, 2025: Orange Beach, Alabama. The Conclave is today one of the oldest continuing writers' organization in the United States. Writers, aspiring writers and supporters of the writing arts may join. Sharing information, developing ideas, honing skills, and receiving practical advice are hallmarks of the annual meeting.
Picture Book Authors and Illustrators: Working Retreat. September 13 - 16, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. Picture book writers and illustrators: set aside time to focus on your picture book project! Here is a special retreat just for you. Join fiction and nonfiction author Darcy Pattison, author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski, and their guests including Aram Kim and Matt Phipps to immerse yourself in all things picture books. You’ll enjoy presentations, read alouds, small group discussions of your work, and so much more. In addition to the support from your faculty and fellow creatives, you’ll have ample time to work on your stories. We recommend bringing several stories at various parts of the drafting and revision processes. Waitlisted.
Hold Space Retreat for Artists of Color. September 15 - 23, 2025: Saugatuck, Michigan. Participants who qualify for a Hold Space Retreat can enjoy communal living, making, and opportunities to organize on Ox-Bow’s campus in Saugatuck, Michigan. Lodging, three meals per day, and access to Ox-Bow studios and spaces are provided. People of color across the creative spectrum including artists of any discipline, writers, curators, teachers, and Ox-Bow Alumni are encouraged to apply. The retreat supports individuals or groups of up to twenty for any length from one to seven nights. Application deadline: July 6, 2025.
Monsters & Mayhem: A Two-Night Mini for Young Adult Horror Writers. September 16 - 18, 2025: Online. Horror novels for young adult readers don’t just scare – they give voice to all the fears and anxieties readers experience and can offer safe spaces to explore complex emotions in a difficult world. Join young adult author Rob Costello for this short course for writers looking to create engaging and compelling horror narratives for young adult readers. This program will draw on current and classic horror examples.
Hedgebrook Writers Conference 2025. September 18 - 21, 2025: Seattle, WA. "Hedgebrook is a community of visionary women writers whose stories and ideas have shaped our culture in the past, now, and for generations to come. We have tapped into this community to collectively build Hedgebrook’s Writers Conference – a three-day intensive for writers across the globe. If you aspire to improve your craft, come learn from seasoned writers that are equipped to challenge, engage, and inform. Our illustrious alumnae instructors craft and guide participants through interconnected lessons over the course of three days, proving “No Writer Is An Island.”
Haiku North America Conference. September 24 - 28, 2025: San Francisco, CA. "Haiku North America is designed for, and open to, everyone—beginners and seasoned specialists alike. Haiku North America (HNA) is a biennial conference in celebration of haiku poetry. Every two years we offer five stimulating days of papers, panels, workshops, readings, performances, book sales, cultural outings, and much socialization with fellow poets, translators, scholars, editors, and publishers. Our first conference was in 1991 and subsequent conferences have taken place in the United States and Canada, focusing on North American poets, their haiku, and related arts. Everyone is welcome to attend HNA, the largest and oldest gathering of haiku poets outside Japan." Biennial.
Colorado Gold Writers Conference. September 26 - 28, 2025: Aurora, CO. An intensive three days of workshops, presenters, agents, master classes, intensives, and more!
49 Writers Tutka Bay Retreat. September 26 - 29, 2025: Tutka Bay, Alaska. Join us for a one-of-a-kind writing retreat set against the stunning backdrop of remote coastal Alaska. The Tutka Bay Writers Retreat allows writers of all genres, backgrounds, and experience levels to take a break from their day-to-day lives, reconnect with their creative selves, and dive deeper into their writing practice. At this generative writers retreat, you and a small group of other writers will enjoy craft talks, in-class writing exercises, readings, and discussions led by Ramona Ausubel, acclaimed author and teacher. In between instructional sessions, you and other retreat participants will have plenty of unstructured time to write, rest, dream, and socialize. The retreat is limited to 12 participants.
Write on the Sound Writers' Conference and Pre-Conference. Preconference, September 27, 2025. Conference: Oct 3 - 5, 2025: Edmonds, WA. Founded in 1985, Write on the Sound writers’ conference (WOTS) is a small, affordable conference focused on the craft of writing. A variety of sessions, workshops and panel discussions are available for all levels and interests, including valuable information regarding today’s writing and publishing industry.
Okoboji Writers' Retreat. September 28 - October 1, 2025: West Lake, IA. The annual Okoboji Writers’ Retreat, founded in 2021, is open to all skill levels. Columnist Julie Gammack is the producer. Over 30 faculty resources will be on hand to work with participants in small-group settings. Whether you come to find out how to get started or land a book deal, this retreat is a welcoming event for all.
Six Bridges Book Festival. September 28 - October 5, 2025: Little Rock, Arkansas. "Prestigious award-winners, screenwriters, comedians, an expert witness, artists, and a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet are among the diverse roster of presenters who will be providing sessions." Free.
SEPTEMBER 2024
Furious Flower IV: Celebrating the Worlds of Black Poetry. September 18-21, 2024: Harrisonburg, VA. "Through open mics, interviews, roundtable scholarly discussions, and, of course, readings by the most renowned names in poetry, the Furious Flower Poetry Conference continues to stage contemporary trends in Black literature, culture, and thought from a range of creative outlooks, as well as provide a platform for new scholarship, critical approaches, and performance strategies." Held every ten years.
Writing By Writers Monterey Bay Workshop. September 18 - 22, 2024: Pacific Grove, CA. The Writing By Writers Monterey Bay Workshop brings emerging writers into close community with nationally known poets and writers. Classes are limited to 12 participants for manuscript critique workshops and 15 for generative workshops to ensure an intimate setting.
UCLA Extension Writing Retreat at Lake Arrowhead. Sept 22 - 27, 2024: Lake Arrowhead, CA. Join a small group of committed writers for four full days of uninterrupted writing time at UCLA’s beautiful conference center at Lake Arrowhead. Participants will enjoy private bedrooms, private baths, and three gourmet meals each day, along with complimentary beverages all day long. The Writers’ Program will coordinate some structured activities, including pre-dinner social hours and nightly open mic events, but your time will ultimately be yours to accomplish your writing goals at your own pace.
The Crash Course in Children’s Book Publishing (Fall). September 24 - November 26, 2024: Online. Join lead faculty Harold Underdown and special guests for a Crash Course in Children's Publishing. At the end of the course, you will understand how the children’s book publishing industry works, including submitting, publishing, marketing a book for children, teens, or young adults, and beginning ideas about craft and critique.
Working Retreat: Lyrical Picture Books and Poetry. September 26 - 29, 2024: Boys Mills, PA. Sudipta Bardhan-Quallan, Georgia Heard, Rebecca Kai Dotlich, and Leeza Hernandez will create and connect with you during this Working Retreat, with sessions on lyrical word choice, to rhyme (or not), leaving room for your illustrator, poetry and more.
Gotham Writers Children's Lit Conference. September 28 - 29, 2024: NY, NY. Panels and Presentations (Day 1) — Take a peek behind the publishing curtain with eye-opening panels and presentations. You can see the full breakdown on the conference schedule. These days are for people who are ready for publication or just gearing up to enter the publishing process. Pitching Roundtables (Day 2) — Each roundtable will have two agents and a group of pre-selected writers with book projects. You spend the session with your roundtable, with each writer reading pages, discussing their work, and receiving feedback from the agents. There will be tables specializing in middle grade/young adult novels and picture books, with room for graphic novels as well. Anyone can attend the Panels and Presentations, but you must apply and be selected to participate in the Pitching Roundtables.
SEPTEMBER 2023
A Weekend For Words. Sept 15 - 17, 2023: Irvine, CA. 60+ working, professional authors of fiction, nonfiction & screen, editors & agents. Manuscript critique & one-on-one consultation additional.
SEPTEMBER 2022
Nimrod Conference for Readers and Writers. September 24 - December 1, 2022: University of Tulsa, Oklahoma. "For over 40 years, Nimrod has hosted an in-person, all-day writing conference in conjunction with the publication of our fall issue. While we will not be hosting this year’s in-person events due to the continuing effects of the pandemic, we’re thrilled to host an extended period of virtual creative writing programming this fall. This year’s programming will feature several months of craft talks, Q&As, readings, and more. We will add more offerings to this schedule as they become available, so keep checking back."
The Pacific Coast Children's Novel Workshop & Retreat. September 29 - October 2, 2022: Santa Cruz, CA. Intensive seminar offers editor or agent feedback on selected whole-novel manuscripts, including two in-person consults with your mentor. Editor and agent critiques on your polished, opening chapters. Paused until 2024.
SEPTEMBER 2021
Kentucky Women Writers Conference. Sept. 9 –12, 2021: Lexington, KY. The Kentucky Women Writers Conference is the longest running literary festival of women in the nation. About 1,000 individuals attend the conference each year. Daytime sessions attract about 150 writers at all stages of development, and free evening events gather a lively community of readers. Most come seeking literary sisterhood, help with a manuscript, or practical advice about the publishing industry. Many are students or beginning writers.
Aspen Autumn Words. September 26 - October 1, 2021: Aspen, Colorado. Workshops, panels, and readings in fiction and creative nonfiction, as well as opportunities to meet with agents and editors. "Aspen Autumn Words is the Rocky Mountain gateway to the literary world. Recognized as one of the country’s pre-eminent literary conferences, Autumn Words welcomes visitors and locals alike to celebrate writing and writers in Aspen for a week each June. The exceptional faculty and awe-inspiring mountain scenery combine to make this a writing retreat like no other."
OCTOBER 2026
State Writing Conference & Convention, sponsored by The Kansas Authors Club, Oct 2 - 4, 2026: Junction City, KS. Writing workshops, panels, and presentations.
Write on the Sound Writers' Conference and Pre-Conference. Oct 2 - 4, 2026: Edmonds, WA. Founded in 1985, Write on the Sound writers’ conference (WOTS) is a small, affordable conference focused on the craft of writing. A variety of sessions, workshops and panel discussions are available for all levels and interests, including valuable information regarding today’s writing and publishing industry.
Picture Book Summit. Oct 3, 2026: Online. A one day live event for picture book writers including author keynotes, interviews, workshops and agent & editor panels. Recordings provided for attendees for four months post-conference.
Whole Novel Workshop: A Virtual Course for Middle Grade and Young Adult Writers. October 6 - December 1, 2026: Online. A transformative opportunity to have your entire draft (up to 80,000 words) of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and a private consultation provided. This online program is for any writer of a middle grade or young adult novel.
Georgia Romance Writers: Moonlight and Magnolias. October 15 - 17, 2026: Atlanta, Georgia. Includes keynote speakers, workshops, editor/agent appointments, autographing & bookfair, awards banquet.
Whole Novel Workshop: An In-Person Retreat for Novelists (October). October 18 - 23, 2026: Boyds Mills, PA. This intensive, transformative Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft (up to 85,000 words) of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and two private consultations provided.
Elk River Writers Workshop. October 18 - 23, 2026: Chico Hot Springs, MT. The Elk River Writers Workshop embodies the idea that deep, communal experiences with the wild open the door to creativity. We bring together some of the most celebrated nature writers in the United States with students who are serious about fostering a connection with the environment in their writing. It all happens at Chico Hot Springs, a historic retreat just north of Yellowstone National Park.
Big Sur on Cape Cod. October 30 - November 1, 2026, North Falmouth, MA. Focus on children's writing. Faculty: Andrea Brown and four of her agents, four editors and four authors.
OCTOBER 2025
The 2025 Online Florida Writing Workshop. October 3 - 4, 2025: Online. This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the “Florida” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation.
TLA Power of Words Conference. October 3 - 5, 2025: Unity Village, MO. "Network with writers, storytellers, performers, musicians, health professionals, educators, and change-makers to connect with those who share your passion of making a difference with words. Discover diversity and experience visionary voices at keynote sessions. Get inspired with workshops in five areas: Social Transformation, Right Livelihood, Engaged Spirituality, Narrative Healing and Ecological TLA.
James River Writers Conference. October 3 - 5, 2025: Richmond, Virginia. James River Writers is excited to offer both in-person and online elements for our conference this year. Join us for Master Classes online, on Friday, October 4. Then, join us at the Greater Richmond Convention Center (in Richmond, Virginia) for a full slate of programs focusing on the craft and business of writing. Look forward to lively panel discussions, live critique sessions with literary agents, fun and engaging plenary sessions, and agent one-on-one meetings (standard with your ticket). In addition, we’ve included opportunities for networking and socializing, because community is at the heart of everything we do. Since 2003, this multi-day event has been known for its inspiring, collegial atmosphere and hospitality. Whether you’re just starting out on your writing journey, or a seasoned professional, there’s something for everyone.
Flathead River Writers Conference. October 4 - 5, 2025: Kalispell, MT. Writers help writers in this two day conference packed with energizing speakers and workshops. Features: Workshops, MS preparation & submission, working with agents, movie deals, media use, & children's book publishing.
DFW Writers Conference. October 4 - 5, 2025: Hurst, TX. Featuring pitch sessions with literary agents, advanced classes, engaging panels, interactive workshops.
Intro to Writing Nonfiction: History, Biography, STEAM, and Much More! October 7 - 23, 2025: Online. Are you ready to write nonfiction for teens and children, but don’t know where to start? Join award-winning authors Jennifer Swanson and Christine Taylor-Butler for an in-depth exploration of the craft of nonfiction writing for young readers. With their guidance, you’ll build a strong foundation in key aspects of the genre, from research and structure to voice and engagement. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with editor Eileen Robinson, gaining insights into the acquisition and editing process for nonfiction projects. Plus, connect with fellow writers who share your passion and start building a supportive network within the nonfiction community.
Diving Into Picture Books: Format, Structure, and Practice. October 7 - 28, 2025: Online. Ready to write your own picture book? Join author Nikki Shannon Smith to learn the process from start to finish. This workshop covers everything from brainstorming to polishing your final draft.
The Enthusiasm of Influence. October 8th, 2025, 6:00-7:30PM EST: Online. We’ve all heard of the “anxiety” of influence. Have you ever struggled to pin down who or what is influencing your writing? Do you want to learn how to write with your influences instead of against them? Do you worry that acknowledging your influences makes your work less likely to be taken seriously? Do you want to find out more about what makes you, you on the page? If so, this workshop will help you to sleuth your voice. You will learn how your influences are working in your writing, how to make an influence-driven exercise into a polished piece, and how and when to “steal” from writers you love. Literary “influencers” like Jessica Rae Bergamino, Ansel Elkins, and Colm Tóibín will be discussed. Bring two influential texts (art, poems, music!) to share, a pre-existing draft of your own that you want to revise, and some blank notebook paper!
Publishing Trends, Market Shifts & Opportunities: A Two-Night Mini. October 14 - 16, 2025: Online: In this comprehensive but digestible workshop, Editor Harold Underdown will guide you through the different kinds of change in the publishing world, and help you best position yourself to respond to them.
Thrills, Chills, & Mystery: A Two-Part Mini on Genre Tales for MG Readers. October 21 - 23, 2025: Online. Learn how to tap into young readers' curiosities in this thrilling short course on writing horror, sci-fi, mystery, and other types of genre fiction with Edgar Award winner Adrianna Cuevas.
Editing for Impact: Revising Your MG or YA Novel (Fall). October 8 - November 12, 2025. Online. Join novelists Jennifer Gennari and Lisa Moore Ramée for a six-week online deep dive into revision, where you’ll learn to enhance emotion, sharpen action, and refine your novel’s impact. Through live sessions, structured assignments, community support, and personalized feedback, you’ll build the skills needed to enrich your novel.
Just Do It! Your Collaborative Support Group for Finishing Your Draft (Fall). October 8 - December 3, 2025: Online. This supportive program takes all creatives (nonfiction or fiction, picture books, novels, essays, and more) from goal-stating to finished drafts. Together, we’ll move through live sessions, writing prompts, studio dates, daily inspirations, check-ins, feedback, and more. 50 participants max.
Whole Novel Genre: An Online Course for Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Horror, & Beyond. October 8 - December 10, 2025. Online. Apply for this transformative opportunity to have your entire draft (up to 80,000 words) of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and a private consultation provided. This online program in particular is for writers of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and similar genre-specific novels. Apply by August 27, 2025.
Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference. October 9 - 11, 2025: Tempe, AZ. "The Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference creates a unique and intimate creative writing experience where writers of all backgrounds, genres, and skill levels gather together and connect through the celebration and study of literary craft, culture, and community. Featuring over 25 faculty members teaching more than 50 sessions, we seek to create a warm and welcoming environment that meets people wherever they are, where writers can learn from and support each other as they work toward their goals. Beyond regular programming, we also feature advanced pre-conference workshops, an exhibitor fair, scholarships, and fellowships. We also offer opportunities to advertise with or sponsor the conference as well."
Ozark Creative Writers Conference. October 9 - 11, 2025: Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Workshops by published authors, editors and agents; Publishers Row, independent publishers available to hear about your next project.
Vermillion Writing and Literature Conference. October 9 - 11, 2025: Vermillion, South Dakota. How does your creative work and/or scholarship engage with boundaries? Which boundaries mark its edges? How extensive are its stakes? What limits—aesthetic, geographical, social, political, ethical—does your work challenge, secure, or redraw? What spaces do you seek to preserve? What spaces need creating—and for whom? And how porous will their boundaries be? Join us 9-11 October 2025 for the second biennial Vermillion Writing and Literature Conference at University of South Dakota (Vermillion, SD). The 2025 theme: "Boundaries: Preserving and Creating Space," encourages creative and/or scholarly submissions that engage with questions like those above (by no means exhaustive) from a variety of perspectives (a few listed below).We look forward to readings, presentations, and discussions that test boundaries while also remaining open to what boundaries might be necessary—even if they haven’t yet been drawn. We invite proposals for creative and/or scholarly panels, roundtables, or workshops as well as individual submissions engaging with the exploration of our conference theme. Biennial conference.
New York Comicon. October 9 - 12, 2025. "New York Comic Con is your event. Where you can feel unafraid to geek out. Where you’re accepted and embraced for being yourself. Where you can experience the best in pop culture because no matter what fandom you’re passionate about, we have it waiting here for you. Be inspired by award-winning comic artists and Japanese anime creators. Get star struck over your favorite TV and film idols. Treat yourself to exclusive fandom gear and unique artwork. But most importantly, create all of those memories with the people you care about the most. Because this event is for you. To embrace your inner hero or root for the villain. To geek out as a family. To celebrate a weekend together you’ll never forget."
Colrain Classic. October 10 - 13, 2025: Online. "The Colrain Manuscript Classic is a highly focused, 3.5 day conference designed for poets with manuscripts in progress. The Classic features in-depth pre-conference work and candid, realistic evaluation and feedback from nationally-known poets, editors and publishers. In preparation, participants work at home on pre-conference assignments and then, in the workshop, review, arrange, and winnow their work based on the pre-conference work. In addition to the manuscript preparation workshop and editor sessions, there will be an editorial Q&A, and an after-conference strategy session." Will be conducted online.
Annual Maryland Writer’s Conference. October 11 - 12, 2025: Baltimore, MD. The Brain to Bookshelf Annual Conference offers over 20 workshops and agent panels. Agent pitches and critiques are available, but agent slots are limited, so register early. Keynote each day from Reed Farrel Coleman.
Women Writing the West Conference. October 16 – 18, 2025: Online. Twelve Workshops and Panels will be presented during the conference. Our guest Editors and Agents will present a panel on the state of the publishing industry, and be available for Pitch Appointments.
Youngstown Fall Literary Festival. October 16 - 18, 2025: Youngstown, Ohio. This year's festival will feature 145 accomplished presenters from California to Maryland and Rhode Island to Florida, presenting on understanding, writing, teaching, translating, editing and publishing literature. Discover your new favorite writer; peruse the dozens of bookfair tables; get a jump on a new piece of writing; join a discussion on writing programs in the community college, publishing as a small press, nature and eco writing, coming to writing late in life, and so much more.
Steamboat Springs Writers Conference. October 17 - 18, 2025: Steamboat Springs, CO. Two instructors, seminar-type workshops for all levels, beginning to professional. Topics change each year. Limited enrollment.
Annual Florida Writers Conference. October 17 - 19, 2025: Altamonte Springs, Florida. Over 75 workshops, major speakers, agent interviews, professional manuscript critiques, lively social events, and much more.
Ossabaw Weekend Writer’s Retreat. October 17 - 20, 2025: Ossabaw Island, GA. Ossabaw Writers’ Retreat offers a variety of programs to address the needs of writers hoping to expand their craft and improve their work-in-progress. We hope you will join us in this great literary tradition by taking part in one or more of the various programs offered by the Ossabaw Writers’ Retreat. Where loggerhead sea turtles and endangered wood storks nest, and photographers, writers, painters, and musicians listen, watch, reflect, and create. Application deadline: September 15.
WriteAngles. October 18, 2025: Greenfield, Massachusetts. Panels and workshops, a limited number of agent meetings. Continental breakfast, and buffet lunch included.
Craft of Writing Conference. October 18, 2025: Tulsa, Oklahoma. "Are you a detective at heart? If so, the Tulsa NightWriters need your help! We’ve heard rumors that one of our board members may be in mortal danger*, and it’ll be up to you to solve the case! Collect clues, interview suspects, and put the pieces together for a chance to win fabulous prizes at this year’s Craft of Writing Conference, THE THRILL OF WRITING!"
The Rochester Writers Fall Conference. October 18, 2025: Rochester, MI. Lectures, Workshops, and Panel Discussions. Open to new writers, working journalists, and published authors. Professional development to move writers to the next level.
Letters & Lines Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Conference. October 18 - 19, 2025: Arvada, CO. This conference offers you opportunities to learn your craft, boost your career, and get feedback on your work. The schedule includes keynotes; a industry professionals panel; breakout sessions on writing, illustrating and professional development; intensives on picture books, novels and illustration; as well as critiques, portfolio reviews and showcase, a virtual bookstore of faculty titles, and more.
Viable Paradise Science Fiction Writers' Workshop. Oct 19 - 24, 2025: Martha’s Vineyard, MA. Viable Paradise is a unique one-week residential workshop in writing and selling commercial science fiction and fantasy. The workshop is intimate, intense, and features extensive time spent with best-selling and award-winning authors and professional editors currently working in the field. VP concentrates on the art of writing fiction people want to read, and this concentration is reflected in post-workshop professional sales by our alumni. Application deadline May 15.
WRITING THE MORE THAN HUMAN WORLD with Pam Houston - Part 2. October 20 - November 10, 2025: Online.This offering is open to anyone who took the 4-week More Than Human World Class in the spring and felt, as I did, that we ran out of time and there was so much more to talk about. We barely scratched the surface of trees and rocks and rivers and oceans and underworlds and overworlds and of course there will always be more to say about animals. This is also open to anyone signing up for The More Than Human World Part One in the Fall. If you would like to go on an 8 week journey rather than a 4-week journey. There will be additional reading, additional writing and additional conversation, exercises and opportunities to read your work aloud and possibly even a special guest. I hope to see some of you back for more.
Kwame Alexander Writers’ Lab & Conference. October 23 - 25, 2025: Washington, DC. In addition to opportunities to take two Master Classes with well-known faculty writers in a selected genre track, attendees can also experience an opening and closing keynote address, featured speaker events, mix and mingle events with publishers and agents, and panel conversations. All these features are included in the cost of Standard Registration.
Jackson Hole Writers Conference. October 23 - 25, 2025: Jackson Hole, WY. You will have ample opportunity to share your work with a distinguished faculty as well as writers from Massachusetts to Florida, from Texas to Washington. Serious writers pour into Jackson Hole each year looking for a fresh, but critical eye on their work. This event usually has at least 4 agents to pitch.
From Story to Script: An Introduction to Writing Graphic Novels. October 23 - November 13, 2025: Online. Turn your story into a compelling graphic novel—whether you're an author, an illustrator, or both! In this four-week course, you'll learn how to shape your story ideas into a dynamic visual narrative alongside award-winning graphic novelists.
Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference. October 24 - 25, 2025: Dallas, Texas. The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference is a forum for journalists, writers, readers, students, educators and the general public to listen to, be inspired by and practice their craft at the highest possible level. Every year, the Mayborn Conference gathers some of the most talented storytellers in the country to share their stories, life-changing experiences and expertise with aspiring writers through three days of lectures, panels, one-on-one sessions, and student classes. In addition, the conference includes a variety of writing contests for anyone from high school students to Pulitzer prize winning professionals, who receive hand-made trophies, more than $26,000 in cash awards and have their work published in Mayborn's journal, Ten Spurs, or anthology, Best American Newspaper Narratives.
Atlanta Writers Conference. October 24 - 25, 2025: Atlanta, Georgia. The goals of this conference are to give you access to eighteen top publishing acquisitions editors and literary agents actively seeking new clients (see their profiles on our Editors and Agents page), help you get your work ready for them, and educate you with a workshop and talks by experienced authors and other industry professionals. The Conference Activities page details each activity you can register for: select them all, only one, or some number in between–it’s entirely up to you, so you can craft the conference experience that will be best for your growth, interests, and budget. Virtual option for critique and pitch meetings with the agents and editors.
Successful School Visits for Authors and Illustrators: An Online Course. October 28, 2025 - February 6, 2026: Online. Join George Jreije and guests to develop your virtual school visit, and put your plan into action with a scheduled school visit! You’ll blend who you are as a storyteller with engaging content and materials to create genuine connections with kids or teens, educators, administrators, and librarians. School Visits will take place during World Read Aloud Week! The course includes presentations, generative peer-to-peer discussions, 30-minute school visits with students, and post-course 1:1 consultations.
Writing By Writers Manuscript Boot Camp. October 30 - November 2, 2025: Sundance Mountain Resort, Utah. The Writing By Writers Manuscript Boot Camp is for the writer who has a full, book-length manuscript (novel, memoir, short story or essay collection) and would like to engage with a small group for a serious and productive response. The extended weekend will include an intimate manuscript workshop, craft panels, readings, and individual meetings – the perfect pre-publication boot camp for any manuscript. Classes are limited to 5 participants.
OCTOBER 2024
Eerie Elixir 2024. October 3 - 6, 2024: Bethlehem, PA. Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls! Oh my! Join us for a special spoooooooky Elixir Writing Retreat! Co-hosted by professional ghost hunter turned literary agent, Stacey Graham, Eerie Elixir will surprise and inspire you. And maybe scare you just a bit! Eerie Elixir 2024 features:
• Daily dedicated writing time
• Expert instruction on craft and the business of writing
• A community of writers at all stages of their career
And if we’re lucky, we’ll enjoy a paranormal experience or two ourselves!
Crafting Meaningful Contemporary Novels: An Online Course with Editor Kat Brzozowski. October 8 - 29, 2024: Online. Join editor Kat Brzozowski to develop the essential elements of character and voice that will help you craft a deeply meaningful contemporary novel for today's readers. The course features weekly live discussions and writing exercises, Q&A sessions, 1:1 feedback, and more.
Writing More Than One Place: A Generative Workshop. October 9, 2024: Online. Exploring the ecology and history of diaspora, this class turns to the work of Catherine Chen, Leslie Sainz, and Xiao Yue Shan to examine our personal connections to place in the context of colonialism. What happens when we celebrate the “exotic” cultivar, but not the body who imagined it? How do we interpret displaced species in the context of climate change? Through generative exercises, we’ll study language formed in the ecotone between home and homeland, offices and public spaces.
Emerald City Writers' Conference. October 12 - 13, 2024: Online. Local Romance Writers of America conference, featuring film and television scouts, who will be taking pitches along with editors and agents, keynote speakers, workshops, and a master class.
Larksong's Bootcamp for Prose Writers. October 9, 16, 30, & November 6, 2023: Lincoln, NE. This Larksong Bootcamp for Prose Writers will be led by Lucy Adkins. It is a limited-enrollment workshop open to a maximum of 6 writers who are committed to improving their own writing and are willing to read and respond to the work of the other writers in the workshop.
Working Retreat: Chapter Books and Early Readers. October 13 - 16, 2024: Boyds Mills, PA. Join Debbi Michiko Florence, Kashmira Sheth, and guests for time to create and connect. This working retreat is open to all who are writing for newly independent readers, including those beginning their creative journeys and those who have more experience.
Why Horror: A Two-Part Mini on Haunted Tales for MG Readers. October 15 - 17, 2024: Online. Join award-winning middle grade author Ally Malinenko for this short course in (as Ally says), "Crafting stories that show readers how to recognize the monsters on the page so that one day, when they inevitably come in real life, they know how to slay them!
Research Techniques: A Two-Night Mini. October 22 - October 24, 2024: Online. Research is the backbone of nonfiction. It also adds depth, detail, and accuracy to fiction. Join authors Stephanie Gibeault, Jolene Gutiérrez, and Anita Yasuda as they share the tools and strategies writers need to dig into research with confidence. Whether you’re writing for the trade market, the educational market, or magazines, understanding how to conduct and organize your research matters.
Latinx Voices: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers. October 27 - 30, 2024: Boyds Mills, PA. Join M. García Peña, NoNieqa Ramos, and Alex Villasante for their fifth annual, in-community retreat designed exclusively for Latinx writers and illustrators.
Rainbow Retreat: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers. October 31 - November 3, 2024: Boyds Mills, PA. Experience our in-community Rainbow Retreat that warmly welcomes queer and questioning authors and illustrators who are crafting stories for children and teen audiences. Our goal is to provide a lightly structured retreat for you to explore your creativity and share your stories while fostering connections with a diverse and accepting community. Embrace your authentic self, make progress on your stories, and find ways to amplify fellow creatives.
OCTOBER 2023
Larksong's Bootcamp for Poets with Matt Mason. October 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023: Online. "Are you looking to “level up” on your writing? Maybe you’re looking for a workshop of like-minded writers who want to be the best they can be and you want to join them? Maybe you want just enough instruction and guidance on a particular piece of writing to prepare it for the submittal process. If any of that is true, a Larksong Bootcamp workshop is for you. This limited-enrollment workshop is open to a maximum of 10 writers who are committed to improving their own writing and are willing to read and respond to the work of the other writers in the workshop."
Green River Writers Workshops: Memoir Writing Workshop. October 13 - 15, 2023: Santa Fe, New Mexico. Using memory as a starting point, Green River Writers Workshops focus on the craft of storytelling through memoir, fiction, historical writing, and poetry. Both experienced and beginning writers are welcome.
Writing By Writers Workshop Tomales Bay. October 18 - 22, 2023: Tomales Bay, California. Manuscript and poetry workshops are limited to 12 participants and generative workshops are limited to 15 to ensure an intimate setting.
Making Magic: Writing and Refining Fantastical and Otherworldly Stories. October 23 - 26, 2023: Boyds Mills, PA. Deepen the magic in your middle grade or young adult novel with novelists Anna-Marie McLemore and Nova Ren Suma. In this generative writing workshop, you’ll enjoy in-depth craft lectures from experienced faculty authors, small group workshopping, 1:1 faculty consultations, and ample private time to retreat so that you can write, wander, and connect with fellow magic makers.
REVISION BOOTCAMP: All-Genre Intensive with Elmaz Abinader and Faith Adiele. October 27 - 28, 2023: Fish Creek, WI. Let’s put your writing through the workout it needs! Elmaz Abinader and Faith Adiele will coach you through editing and revising work of any genre. As multi-genre authors and master teachers, they will take your work through tried-and-true exercises to sculpt and refine your writing. They will help you understand what style of writer you are and which of the five stages of creative work your draft is in. Then they will show you revision strategies for every mode–developmental, stylistic, and structural. Plan to bring a draft manuscript that needs a workout (limited to 10 pages of poetry or 3,000 words of prose) and a laptop. The process will help you explore perspective and point of view, develop and deepen characters, and create contexts and build worlds. You will identify the work’s central questions and emotions, flush out scenes/forms, and harden the structure of your story or poems. You will pump up beginnings and endings and polish your language and metaphors to make your writing more powerful. The two days will be broken into team-taught craft lectures, writing exercises led by each teaching artist, lively Q&A, in-class writing, small group work and shares.
OCTOBER 2022
Gold Rush Writers Conference. October 7 - 9, 2022, Mokelumne Hill, CA. "Writing professionals will guide you to a publishing bonanza through a series of panels, specialty talks, workshops and celebrity lectures. Go one-on-one with successful poets, novelists, biographers, memoirists and short story writers." Writing workshops in Autobiography/Memoir, Children's, Fiction, Marketing, Non-fiction, Poetry, Publishing, Romance, Travel, Young Adult. Individual sessions available. Postponed for 2024.
Nimrod Conference for Readers and Writers. October 13 - December 1, 2022: University of Tulsa, Oklahoma. "For over 40 years, Nimrod has hosted an in-person, all-day writing conference in conjunction with the publication of our fall issue. While we will not be hosting this year’s in-person events due to the continuing effects of the pandemic, we’re thrilled to host an extended period of virtual creative writing programming this fall. This year’s programming will feature several months of craft talks, Q&As, readings, and more. We will add more offerings to this schedule as they become available, so keep checking back."
NOVEMBER 2026
Breakout Novel Intensive. November 3 - December 15, 2026: Online. Included are new or revised units on story discovery, strong voice, standout characters, the inner journey, compelling story worlds, beautiful writing, creating resonance and finding meaning in both story and process. Breakout fundamentals are also covered: strong characters, inner conflict, personal stakes, plot layers, powerful scenes, micro-tension, practical theme techniques and much more.
Odyssey Writing Workshop. November 23, 2026 (18 weeks): Online. Since its inception in 1996, Odyssey has become one of the most highly respected workshops for writers of fantasy, science fiction, and horror. Will be held online. Application deadline April 10.
NOVEMBER 2025
Kentucky State Poetry Society. November 1 - 2, 2025: Lexington, KY and Online. "Each year, KSPS hosts a poetry conference open to both members and nonmembers, bringing together poets of all levels to learn, share, and connect. The conference features panels, workshops, readings, and a keynote address, offering a rich opportunity to engage with the poetry community."
Poetry Palooza! A Workshop for Poetry Lovers. November 1 - 4, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. Imagine four days of poetry-themed activities with poetry enthusiasts, alongside the dynamic team: Charles Waters, Irene Latham, Rebecca Kai Dotlitch, Georgia Heard, and their guests. Waitlisted.
Marketing Opportunities for Storytellers: A Two Night Mini. November 3 - 5, 2025: Online. The story is at the heart of all we do, even when we switch from crafting the story to getting the story to readers. Join award-winning writers Valerie Bolling and Janae Marks to engage and build your knowledge of marketing and promotional opportunities that you can do as a book creator in order to get your book to kids.
Breakout Novel Intensive. November 11 - December 16, 2025: Online. Included are new or revised units on story discovery, strong voice, standout characters, the inner journey, compelling story worlds, beautiful writing, creating resonance and finding meaning in both story and process. Breakout fundamentals are also covered: strong characters, inner conflict, personal stakes, plot layers, powerful scenes, micro-tension, practical theme techniques and much more. Instructor: Donald Maass.
Medical Writing and Communication Conference. November 5 - 8, 2025: Phoenix, AZ. Workshops in medical writing, designing materials for patients, analysis, clinical reports, and more.
American Literary Translators Association (ALTA) Conference. November 5 - 8, 2025: Tucson, AZ. Panels, workshops, readings, a book fair, and opportunities to meet with editors for translators. "The ALTA Annual Conference is a refreshingly collegial gathering of amateurs and professionals alike, both within the profession and outside it, all wholeheartedly committed to fostering, furthering, and supporting the practice of literary translation."
Revising Your Novel in Verse: An Online Course. November 5 - December 17, 2025: Online. The verse novel is an art all its own—sculpted through story, and the act of revision. If you’ve done the hard work of drafting your novel in verse and are now ready to immerse yourself in revisions, we invite you to join us!
Writing Through Trauma to Empower Readers: A Working In-Community Retreat for Storytellers. November 6 - 9, 2025: Boyds Mills, PA. A 3-night/4-day writing retreat for authors who are crafting books for kids and teens that center their lived experiences in areas of trauma, mental health, grief, and beyond.
All Write, Columbia – Writers Conference. November 6 - 9, 2025: Spencertown, NY. A five day intensive writing conference focused on nonfiction and memoir. The conference is open to all levels of writers, from beginners to more advanced writers with a manuscript or publications. Open to writers who are at least 18 years old. Just 20 writers will be accepted. Application deadline October 2, 2025.
The 2025 Online Seattle Writing Workshop. November 7 - 8, 2025: Online. This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the “Seattle” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation.
Wright Women Writers Conference. November 7 - 8, 2025: University of Central Arkansas. "The mission of the C.D. Wright Women Writers Conference is to recognize, promote, and encourage women writers with special emphasis given to writing inspired by or written in the south. Keynote presentations, panel discussions, craft talks, publishing advice, readings, a book fair, and workshops led by contemporary authors provide a venue for participants to explore opportunities, challenges, and trends specific to women writers. The conference seeks to offer writers a space to gather for inspiration, further education, support, and networking."
Sanibel Island Writers Conference. November 7 - 8, 2025: Sanibel Island, Florida. Participants at all stages of development — from notebook scribblers to published novelists — are invited to view a variety of discussions and panels on fiction, poetry, songwriting, YA literature, screenwriting, creative nonfiction, and publishing and editing.
North Carolina Writers’ Network Fall Conference. November 7 - 9, 2025: Wrightsville Beach, NC. The WSOC will feature classes and conversations on the craft and business of writing.
2025 Kauai Writers Festival. November 10 – 16, 2025, Master Classes: November 10th-13th, 2025.
Conference: November 14th-16th, 2025 Kalapaki Bay, Lihue, Kauai, HI. Join bestselling authors and agents in an intimate, oceanfront setting, with an emphasis on fiction, memoir, thrillers, and screenwriting. Includes in-depth sessions on craft, publishing, and the writing life, with opportunities for agent/editor feedback.
The Intersection of Religion and Mental Health in Poetry. November 12th, 2025, 6:00-7:30PM EST: Online. Regardless of the religious, nonreligious, irreligious, or spiritual worldview we identify with, the culture of religion continues to be an influence on people’s mental health. We will look at poetry by Adrienne Novy, Eugenia Leigh, and Maya Williams to learn how suicidality, spiritual bypassing, and religious related trauma in poetics can impact us. We will also make time to write in response to prompts inspired by the poems.
Clearwater Writers Women's Writing Retreat. November 14 - 20, 2025: Clottonwood, Idaho.
Now in its twelfth year, Clearwater Writers is a series of writing retreat and workshop programs facilitated by poet and author Paula Coomer. Previously hosted by now-retired innkeepers Jim and Ruth May at Reflections Inn on the Clearwater River in North Central Idaho, our program has found a new home at the magnificent Monastery of St. Gertrude outside Cottonwood, Idaho, on the rolling hills of the Camas Prairie. The Spirit Center is a contemporary facility with private suites, several kitchens, and meeting rooms large enough to accommodate our daily yoga classes.Pacific University Master of Fine Arts in Writing Residency Writers Conference. Application deadline: November 15, 2025. January 8 - 18, 2026: Seaside, Oregon. Writers seeking to deepen their craft and expand their professional community are invited to attend the Residency Writers Conference together with MFA students, faculty and guest speakers. Join us for 10 full days of craft talks, workshops, panels, classes, readings and more featuring some of the best minds of the literary world. This residency is a rare opportunity to engage in sustained and meaningful conversation with others who share your passion for the art of writing.
Monterey Writer Retreat. November 18 - 22, 2025: Pacific Grove, CA. "Join us on the wondrously scenic Monterey Peninsula for a writer retreat like no other. Know that writers of every kind have journeyed for over a century to this same location on the California west coast. They've come in search of inspiration, individuality, purpose and vision, but more importantly, to share an understanding that art has preceded their arrival in the form of a brutally beautiful sea and windswept shore."
Cleveland Writing Workshop. November 22, 2025: Cleveland, Ohio. This is a special one-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
NOVEMBER 2024
Chapter by Chapter: An Online Program for Chapter Book Writers. November 7 - December 5: Online. Chapter books engage young minds like no other stories can. Readers start a journey with your character in Chapter One, and then yearn for more with each page turn until they finish your entire book! (And maybe even your entire series!) Join Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen to build your knowledge about the beloved genre of chapter books and make progress on your story in this hands-on course that covers everything from character and plot to submission packets.
Working Retreat: Picture Book Authors and Illustrators. November 10 - 13, 2024: Boyds Mills, PA. Picture book writers and illustrators: set aside time to focus on your picture book project! Here is a special retreat just for you. Join fiction and nonfiction author Darcy Pattison, author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski, and their guest Sara Gomez Woolley to immerse yourself in all things picture books.
Stuck in the Middle: A Two-Night Mini for Picture Book Writers. November 12 - November 14, 2024: Online. Picture books can follow a plot that depends heavily on the emotional shift from the beginning to the end of the story. That leaves writers with a lot of work to do on the middle! Join award-winning author Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow to unpack ways to develop the middle of your picture book so that it serves the perfect emotional bridge between the beginning and the end.
Space Adventure: Playing with the Page. November 13th, 2024: Online. In this generative workshop, we will challenge the term “blank page” through play and prompts. We will explore the possibilities of the page, whether paper, digital, etc. We will discuss examples and draw wisdom from writers such as Tyehimba Jess, Alicia Mountain, M. NourbeSePhilip, and more.
Working Retreat: Revision. November 14 - 17, 2024: Boyds Mills, PA. Join celebrated editors Harold Underdown, Eileen Robinson, and Emma Dryden for time to revise and connect during this "Working Retreat" for writers looking to reimagine, enliven, and rebuild their picture books, novels, or nonfiction. Waitlisted.
Colrain Classic. November 15 - 18, 2024: Online. "The Colrain Manuscript Classic is a highly focused, 3.5 day conference designed for poets with manuscripts in progress. The Classic features in-depth pre-conference work and candid, realistic evaluation and feedback from nationally-known poets, editors and publishers. In preparation, participants work at home on pre-conference assignments and then, in the workshop, review, arrange, and winnow their work based on the pre-conference work. In addition to the manuscript preparation workshop and editor sessions, there will be an editorial Q&A, and an after-conference strategy session." Will be conducted online.
Writers Conference of Dallas. November 23, 2024: Dallas, Texas. This is a special one-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing workshop on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the Wyndham Cleveland Airport. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome.
DECEMBER 2025
Pitch Perfect: Finding Your Novel’s Theme and Crafting the Pitch. December 2 @ 7:00 pm - December 4 @ 7:00 pm, 2025: Online. Struggling to capture the heart of your novel? Join award-winning authors Jennifer Gennari and Lisa Moore Ramée and explore ways to uncover your story’s theme—and turn it into a clear, compelling pitch that guides your draft, fuels your revisions, and grabs the attention of agents and editors.
How to Build a Seed: Designing Your Own Writing Prompts. December 5, 2025: Online. In this workshop, writers will plan ahead for the days when we need to grow new work but all our creative soil feels bone-dry and chock full of rocks. Bring 3-4 favorite poems (by other poets) that you find especially effective to use as nourishment. We’ll use the materials we always have on hand to consider what a new literary creation needs in order to break open and throw roots. Plan to leave with a small collection of prompts to use in any upcoming winters of the mind.
Online Writing Workshop of Chicago. December 5 - 6, 2025: Online. "This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” online writing workshop. In other words it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."
The Mesa Book Festival. December 6, 2025: Mesa, Arizona. The festival features presentations, readings, visits with authors, and a poetry open mic. "Everyone! Authors, Publishers, and Book Sellers are invited to register for space to showcase, promote, and sell their books. Readers are invited to come and buy their books direct. We're encouraging a wide variety of literary arts purveyors to share their work to create a bigger audience for everyone." All events are free and open to the public.
Word/Play: A Generative Poetry Workshop. December 10th, 2025, 6:00-7:30PM EST: Online. Wordplay is time traveling: it is an opportunity to explore the history of words and languages while also crafting new futures and directions for words and language. Wordplay can bring fun and pleasure back into the craft of writing. Words can also enact dramatic plays, exploring the nuances of language using sound and employing multiple meanings at once.
WTP 2025. December 11 - 14, 2025: NY. NY. "The goal of this conference, and all its companion editorial and development programs, is to set you on a realistic path not only to publication, but to becoming a career author. The Write to Pitch utilizes a time-tested methodology that works to get writers published. Pitching TV/Film pros, literary agents, and publishing house acquisition editors is a vital component (see the Schedule), of course, but when asked what specific elements make the event unique and better than other writer conferences, our response lists a number of game-changing factors, both major and minor."
DECEMBER 2020
CLMP Writers Conference. December 2 - 4, 2020: NY, NY. Learn how to maneuver in the marketplace as an informed, empowered, professional writer. Our three-day online publishing conference features panels, clinics, Agent Pitch Sessions, and more—specifically designed to deliver insider tips on finding a literary agent, working with an editor, publishing in literary magazines, and other valuable information about building your career as a writer. On hiatus.
CLMP Writers Conference. December 2 - 4, 2020: NY, NY. Learn how to maneuver in the marketplace as an informed, empowered, professional writer. Our three-day online publishing conference features panels, clinics, Agent Pitch Sessions, and more—specifically designed to deliver insider tips on finding a literary agent, working with an editor, publishing in literary magazines, and other valuable information about building your career as a writer. On hiatus.
I see a wonderful variety of conferences here. I recommend you include RWA international conference held every year by Romance Writers of America. I have benefited greatly by attending their San Diego conference this year. Next year July 2017 it will be in Orlando with opportunities to pitch your book.
ReplyDeleteUrk! After June 2017 the conference list reverts to May 2016... Can you update the list again? I'm looking for West Coast conferences in the Fall of 2017!
ReplyDelete(I can look elsewhere, but I thought you'd want someone to point out the glitch... feel free to delete my comment after it's fixed)
Hi! It's not really a glitch. I update the conference dates as I receive them, which means I can't get full lists more than two months in advance. You can do two things: 1) click on the conferences for last year. Most of these are annual events, so you'll get the current information. 2) click on the links at the top of the page. These will provide you with information on conferences throughout the year.
ReplyDelete