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30 Writers Conferences for 2022

These 30 writing conferences across the United States offer countless opportunities to hone your craft, network with industry professionals, and have a blast with fellow writers!
Conferences can even become an integral part of the pitching process as they offer face to face time with agents. That’s just about impossible to replicate unless you live in New York and have impeccable sleuthing skills.
However, this does not mean that you need to spend thousands of dollars traveling to a super expensive conference.

This article lists the top 30 conferences in the United States divided up by regions:
- South (#1 – 8)
- Northeast (#9 – 14)
- Midwest (#15 – 20)
- West (#21 – 27)
- On The Move (#28 – 30)
Take advantage of the opportunities near you to make writing conferences a part of your writing life.
And if you want some advice NOW, rather than waiting for a conference, I’d recommend you read my post on how to write a novel: “12 Steps to Writing a Bestseller.”
Make sure to read to the bottom of the article to learn about the best roaming conference opportunities that change locations frequently, including the famous AWP Conference !
Writing Conferences in the South
1. atlanta writers conference.

In the heart of Georgia, writers are getting excited about this biannual conference. This two-day event features more than a dozen agents and editors, as well as workshops offered by bestseller authors like Steven James and publishers from the big 5.
This is also one of the cheapest conferences on the list because it’s free for members! Membership is $50. With two conferences a year, that’s $25 each if you attend both!
- $50 membership fee
- Atlanta, GA
- May 8-9th & Fall dates pending
2. Blue Ridge Writers Conference

The Blue Ridge Writers Conference is a hidden gem tucked away at the tip of the blue ridge mountains.
This year’s keynote speaker, Melissa Fay Green, is an award-winning nonfiction author. Green will be one of many professional authors taking part in discussions and panels at the event.
For an additional $35, you can choose to have a one on one manuscript consultation or attend Sheila Athens’ four-hour masterclass. Or do both!
- $75 after that date. Discounts are available for students.
- Blue Ridge, GA
- April 3-4th
3. Imaginarium

Join bestselling fantasy authors, Michael Williams and Tim Waggoner, at Imaginarium 2022! More than 130 panels will be taking place during this three-day celebration of storytelling.
This event is more than your typical conference. It’s also a film festival, gaming tournament, Comicon convention, and a book fair! Imaginarium prides itself on being family-friendly with something for everyone. Kids 12 and under can attend for free!
A crowd favorite is the Saturday evening masquerade ball. Don’t be surprised if you see your favorite literary characters come to life on the dancefloor!
- Louisville, KY
- July 10-12th
4. North Carolina Writers Network

The North Carolina Writers Network jumps around the state to make conferences accessible to as many writers as possible.
Spring conferences provide unique, intimate one-day networking opportunities with workshops and panels made of local authors, agents, and editors. They provide a wealth of great opportunities for writers of all levels.
Fall conferences follow the same format as spring conferences, but they attract hundreds of writers from around the country, including more big-name agents and editors. Previous speakers include Kaitlyn Johnson, Joanna Volpe, and Besty Thorpe.
- $275 for members.
- Location Rotates Within the State
- April 18th & November 13-14th
5. Carolina Christian Writers Conference

Based out of Spartanburg Baptist Church, each year hundreds of writers gather for a weekend of workshops, networking, and worship.
This conference is highly customizable with options to suit every sort of writer. While workshops of every genre are in full swing, publishers and agents are open for appointments.
This year, EABooks Publishing will be in attendance. They are looking for up to 25 authors to include in their inspirational anthology, “Whispers of Grace.”
- $145 after that date.
- Spartanburg, SC
- March 27-28th
6. “The Future of Writing” Conference
“The Future of Writing” conference, hosted by Woodhall Press, features authors such as Alena Dillon, Kathryn Lasky, Baron Wormser, and Gina Barreca.
The faculty which will teach at the conference include Darien Gee, Tom Hazuka, Eugenia Kim, Allison Williams, Charles Rafferty, Shelley Evans, and Alena Dillon.
Networking and publishing opportunities include an open pitch with editors and agents in the afternoon.
- $195 Workshops, Keynotes, Panels, and swag bag!
- $95 Keynotes and Panels
- FREE Book Pitch Panel
- 100% online
7. North Carolina Christian Writers Conference

Not to be confused with the Carolina Christian Writers Conference in South Carolina, the North Carolina conference focuses much more on the business side of writing.
It provides constant opportunities to rub elbows with Bestselling authors like Michelle Medlock Adams, Eva Marie Everson, and Del Duduit as well as pitch to top agents.
If you’re looking to build your network or meet other people who understand your love-hate relationship with red pens, this three-day adventure is a perfect fit!
- $299 ( $149 for students )
- Liberty, NC
- March 5-7th
8. Killer Nashville

Founded by author/filmmaker Clay Stafford in 2006, Killer Nashville is known as the premier destination for crime, suspense, and thriller authors around the country.
This four-day event lets authors get their hands dirty and learn the nitty-gritty secrets of their craft.
There is something for every mystery lover here with more than 60 panels, multiple small group sessions, and a mock crime set created by real FBI agents. Your memories from this event will follow you to the grave.
- $419 after said date.
- Franklin, TN
- August 20-23rd
9. Agents and Editors Conference

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the conferences!
This three-day event combines craft talk with common industry knowledge to create an unforgettable experience.
More than 20 agents and editors have already been enlisted and the number is still climbing. These publishing experts are available for one on one consultations that are included in your admission price. Spots are limited though. Sign up asap to reserve yours!
- Members pay $429 and day passes sell for $150.
- June 26-28th
Writing Conferences in the Northeast
10. bay to ocean writers conference.

Voted the best writing conference in Maryland by Writer Magazine , the Bay to Ocean Writers Conference boasts more than 25 speakers, including John DeDakis, Gail Priest, and Ariele Sieling.
Over the past 22 years, the conference has become recognized far and wide for its popular poetry panels, as well as its stellar fiction and nonfiction workshops.
This one-day event typically sells out fast so check it out sooner rather than later!
- Discounts available for members and students.
- Wye Mills, MD
11. BookCon

Big city, big books, big names! Let me begin by announcing that New York Times Bestselling author, Ransom Riggs is one of BookCon’s featured speakers this year!
BookCon is especially talented at bringing big authors to their annual conferences. Don’t be surprised to find editors and publishers from the big five at this event as well as numerous agents hoping to find a bestseller.
Another awesome thing about this event? It’s in New York and it’s under a hundred dollars. You can buy a day pass for only $32!
- Manhattan, NY
- May 30-31st
12. The Muse and the Marketplace

More than 800 writers flock to Boston each year to take part in this mega-conference. It includes more than 130 discussions and interactive sessions that cater to writers of every skill level.
If you’re able to attend, I highly recommend taking part in the Manuscript Mart. This is a space for writers to pair up with hungry agents and editors to talk pitches.
If you want to socialize with industry experts, but you haven’t perfected your pitch, head over to the Shop Talk Happy Hour for consults and casual conversation.
Both the Manuscript Mart and the Shop Talk Happy Hour are an additional charge.
- Daily rates differ. Membership discounts do apply.
- April 3-5th
13. American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) Conference

This gathering of minds is a freelancer’s dream come true. The ASJA Conference focuses on keeping you updated with industry standards and hidden opportunities.
More than 25 agents and editors are signed up to offer their tips and tricks. All of them are on the hunt for captivating manuscripts making this a worthwhile for authors of all types.
I highly recommend getting a membership with ASJA. Membership gives you access to exclusive opportunities in the freelance community and steep discounts for conference tickets with priority seating.
- $609 after that date. Discounts are available for members and students. Daily rates vary.
- April 19-20th
14. Writer’s Digest

Writer’s Digest is known for hosting one of the largest conferences in the country, hands down.
It attracts top-level publishers, editors, and agents, all of whom are eager to meet up-and-coming writers (that’s you!).
You can’t talk about the Writer’s Digest Conference without talking about the 60-minute pitching frenzy, Pitch Slam . For an additional $149, you have an hour of unlimited access to countless agents and book promoters.
The average pitch lasts 3 minutes, do the math, then decide if Pitch Slam is right for you.
- $449 after that date .
- August 13-16th
15. Middlebury Bread Loaf

Founded by Robert Frost in 1926, the Middlebury Bread Loaf Writers Conference wins the title of oldest writing conference in the states.
This 10-day conference tucked among the ripe, green mountains of Vermont is full of experienced editors, publishers, and authors; their goal is to inspire today’s writers and give them a leg up.
To attend this event, writers must submit a manuscript and be invited to join.
For ecologically inclined authors, check out the Environmental Writers Conference held at Middlebury in June.
- August 12-22nd
Writing Conferences in the Midwest
16. northwoods writers conference.

Get ready for six full days of writing by the water at the Northwoods Writers Conference.
Each morning begins with craft talks with authors at the top of their game like Scott Russell Sanders, Alison Hawthorne Deming, and Elizabeth Bradfield.
Then, throughout the day, there are small group workshops and consultations. Consultations cost an extra $60.
In the evenings, activities range from open mics on pontoon boats to lakeside picnics with reading series. Whatever your preference, this conference offers plenty of time to rub elbows with agents, editors, and fellow authors too!
- $795 after that date. Scholarship applications are due by Feb 20th.
- Bemidji, MN
- June 22-28th
17. Kansas Authors Club Convention

The Kansas Authors Club Convention prides itself on having something for writers of all ages and skill levels.
Each year, the conference chooses a theme to hone in on; the previous theme was “mystery and suspense” with more than a dozen popular thriller authors, publishers, and experts in attendance.
This year’s theme is newly released as “a sense of place” and will focus on creating living, breathing settings, and setting as a character.
- $185 after that date. Discounts are available for members and students.
- October 2-4th
18. Penned Con

Penned Con is an incredibly popular event. VIP tickets have already sold out for this year’s event and weekend tickets are going fast!
The event aims to bring together writers of all styles and genres in a relaxed atmosphere. Their most popular activities are the extended masterclasses offered on the first day of the conference. If you click with the masterclass instructor, you can sign up for a private consultation with them.
Another perk of Penned Con? They donate all proceeds to Actions for Autism .
- St. Louis, MO
- September 17-19th
19. Nebraska Writers Guild Conference

The Nebraska Writers Guild offers three days of consultations, critique boot camps, and shop talk seminars.
Appointments with literary agents like Kristina Slater are first-come, first-served, and have no extra cost.
This conference is perfect for writers who would rather focus on intimate group or pair discussions rather than large panels. Workshops are capped to allow for in-depth discussion and a focus on networking without small talk.
- $279 after that date. Member discounts and daily rates are available.
- April 16-18th
20. University of North Dakota Writers Conference

The 51st North Dakota Writers Conference will be held at the State Museum of Art, and it’s completely free! Writers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to attend.
This event includes community workshops, a film fest, and featured speakers like Jessica Fishoff, Matt Young, Jenny Zhang, Reginald Dwayne Betts.
Then to top it all off, the event wraps up with a performance from the Flatt Mountain Bluegrass Boys.
- Grand Forks, ND
- March 25-27th
21. Writers’ Institute

This three-day event focuses on turning writers into professional authors. Held at the University of Wisconsin, Writers’ Institute wants to give you the tools to pitch agents and publishers with confidence.
More than 30 industry leaders will be in attendance to offer practice pitch sessions and business advice to writers.
Once you have your manuscript in hand and you’ve perfected your pitch, you’re free to approach any of the agents that will be attending to sell them your next bestseller.
- $395 after that date.
- Madison, WI
- March 26-29th
Writing Conferences in the West
22. san francisco writers conference.

One of the first conferences of the year is the San Franciso Writers Conference. This four-day event includes masterclasses, Q&A panels, and agent speed dating (for an additional cost).
More than 100 writing professionals, including 20 available agents, will partake in the conference. Keynote speakers include Brooke Warner, Jonathan Maberry, and Walter Mosley.
Make sure to apply early if you’re interested in applying for a scholarship!
- Scholarships are available.
- San Francisco, CA
- February 13-16th
23. Santa Barbara Writers Conference

The Santa Barbara Writers Conference expertly combines craft and career talk. With almost 50 years of heritage, this conference consistently ranks as one of the best in the country.
For five days, writers try to soak up all the wealth of knowledge and experience that the event attracts.
It’s known for attracting top-notch keynote speakers like Ray Bradbury, T.C. Boyle, and Pico Iyer. Stay tuned to see who will be speaking for this year’s event!
- $699 or $150 per day
- Santa Barbara, CA
- June 16-21st
24. Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference

This is a bucket-list conference for writers of all genres, especially screenwriters.
Year after year, authors return to attend screenwriting masterclasses taught by Hollywood writers and many other features of this popular event.
One on one pitching sessions, practice pitches, and manuscript reviews (up to 25 pages) are available for an additional cost.
The conference ends on a high note with Ken Sherman, president of Beverly Hills Literary Agency, leading a luncheon discussion.
- Price increases monthly after that date.
- Culver City, CA
25. Pacific Northwest Writers Conference

Seattle, the birthplace of Starbucks, has another gift for the writing community, the Pacific Northwest Writers Organization.
Each year the organization hosts a variety of events. It offers great membership perks like steep discounts on their annual conference.
The conference offers master classes and one free pitching session with more than 26 agents from around the country looking for their next bestseller. Additional pitch sessions can be bought (with membership!).
- Membership discounts are available.
- Seattle, WA
- September 24-27th
26. LIT Masterclass

Brought to you by the West Coast Christian Writers, LIT Masterclass is perfect for writers who want to build their networks and hone their craft.
Rick Acker, Shelly Adina, Lisa Bogart, and many other award-winning authors will be there to share their stories and offer advice. Literary agents like Janet Grant and Bob Hostetler will also be attending, and they’re ready to hear some fantastic pitches!
This winter conference fills up quickly. Get your tickets, asap!
- Prices vary based on the type of admission and membership, Scholarships are available.
- Livermore, CA
- February 28-29th
27. Northern Colorado Writers Conference

This two and a half-day conference has all the works and it moves fast. Grab a coffee and buckle in!
You can choose to attend any of the 30 plus hands-on sessions, agent/editor panels, and workshops. There is also a genre cocktail hour and a banquet dinner with the international bestsellers, Sophie Hannah and Teresa Funke.
For an additional fee, you can join in a four-hour masterclass or attend an agent roundtable for consults.
- Membership discounts apply.
- Fort Collins, CO
- April 30-May 2nd
28. Desert Nights, Rising Stars

Desert Nights, Rising Stars is two jam-packed days of delving into craft and meeting new faces. The Piper Writer’s Studio organizes the annual event and attracts more than 300 writers a year.
Between seminars and star-studded panels, check out the literary fair or sign up for one of the three-hour masterclasses to dive deeper into your preferred genre. Topics include character therapy with Tracey Baptise and cultivating chaos with Cristina Garcia.
- Daily rates vary and discounts are available .
- Tempe, Arizona
- February 21-22nd
Roaming Conferences
29. awp conference.

It offers unrivaled access to big-name publishers and agencies, making it an experience that is impossible to replicate. More than 2,000 presenters are scheduled to lead discussions about every aspect of writing. It’s almost guaranteed that you can find your people here and have a great time doing it!
Make sure to sign up early to get the best deal. Students can attend for only $70!
- Membership and student discounts apply.
- San Antonio, TX, Kansas City, MO
- March 4-7th
30. Writing Day Workshops

Writing Day Workshops takes writing conferences on the road and brings them to a city near you! They host year-round one-day conferences that attract national attention.
At these events, you can attend interactive sessions, pitch agents, and meet other writers in your area. This action-packed events typically attract 10-20 agents, and at least as many professional authors, teachers, and publishing pros.
- Price varies by location.
- Locations vary
- See this year’s schedule
31. Nonfiction NOW

Nonfiction Now is the only international conference on the list. It’s traveled from Iowa City (where it was founded) to Iceland.
The last conference was held in Phoenix, Arizona and the next conference is scheduled to take place in Wellington, New Zealand.
It will feature award-winning authors and literary figures like Mary Cappello and Ngahuia Te Awekotuku. As the number one nonfiction conference in the world, it covers a wide variety of topics, from literary works to political essays to reality TV.
The location for the next conference is currently pending.
- Wellington, New Zealand
- December 3-5th
What conferences have you attended? Were they worth it?
And if you went to one not listed here, tell us about it in the comments.
About the Author:
Hello! I’m down here!
My name is Grace Giska. I am an undergraduate student studying Creative Writing and the author of three novels, one of which I like a lot. I enjoy long walks through enchanted forests and travel blogging on my site, Pack a Pen !
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17 comments
The 2020 Kauai Writers Conference is coming up November 9-15 at the Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach in Kauai, Hawai’i.
The conference features master classes in fiction and creative nonfiction (November 9-12) as well as agent pitch sessions, manuscript critiques, publishing consultations, workshops, and panels (November 13-15).
Conference registration, which includes all lectures, craft workshops, and some meals, is $795. Individual master classes cost $695. Agent pitch sessions, manuscript critiques, and publishing consultations are available for an additional fee.
Learn more at kauaiwritersconference.com.
The 30th Anniversary Flathead River Writers Conference is September 18-20 in Kalispell, Montana, near Glacier National Park. Master story structure class on Friday by Larry Brooks, author of Story Engineering. Multi-genre authors and top agents. Limited to 100 attendees to preserve the friendly, intimate atmosphere. authorsoftheflathead.org
Are any of these conferences still on?
I haven’t checked, but I doubt it. If they are, they’re probably online versions.
American Night Writers Conference is happening online Sept 10-12, 2020. The web address is https://www.americannightwriters.org/conf
Attending the Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference was very low quality. Writers didn’t show up, meetings canceled constantly, low quality events that did occur. A local laugh.
Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers (WIFYR) is a kidlit writing conference for anyone writing picture books, chapter books, middle grade, or YA fiction and nonfiction. It offers a week of hands-on workshops where experienced authors, editors, and agents workshop your manuscripts in small groups in the morning, and teach classes in the afternoons. It turns more writers into authors than any other conference of its kind. Location: Provo, UT. Every June. For more info go to https://www.WIFYR.com
This is a great list all the links I tried lead me to the current information for these conferences which was a lot of help! Thank you
Check out my page of writer’s links! There are lots of conferences in the OK/AR/TX/MO/KS area! Wikipedia has a huge list of writers conferences, too! https://www.reneelaviness.com/links.html
We’re holding an in-person and virtual (your choice) Writer’s conference in Blue Springs, Missouri, August 26-28, 2021 to help reconnect writers after the loss of most of our conferences last year. We’re looking forward to meeting other writers again! Our conference site is https://www.smiahwritersconference.com/ , we’d love to see you all!
Brian Eastman
Looking for a writers conference in late summer, fall 2021, preferably in So Cal or West Coast but could be coaxed into travel elsewhere.
I”m looking for a fantasy writers conference in 2021
Super helpful and accurate! I’ve spent the last few days researching these conferences on a variety of other websites, and this is by far the best and most comprehensive amalgamation. You ROCK. Thank you so much BookFox!
Please add these four great conferences from Arkansas and Oklahoma —
Arkansas Writers Conference in Little Rock, AR at https://www.arkansaswritersconference.com
White County Creative Writers Conference in Searcy, AR at https://www.whitecountycreativewriters.org
Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. (OWFI) at https://www.owfi.org
Ozark Creative Writers Conference in Eureka Springs, AR at https://www.ozarkcreativewriters.com
Great list, thanks! When I revise this page I’ll consider them.
How come you don’t include conferences like Sewanee, Kenyon, and Tin House?
Would love to add the RMFW Colorado Gold Conference to this list! https://rmfw.org/conference-2022/ Sept 9-11 2022 in Denver, Colorado!

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The Top 25 Writers’ Conferences in 2022
January 11, 2022 6 min read Education Workshops

By Author Phoebe A. Lee
Another year means another year of writers conferences! Below is a list of 2022's best in-person and virtual writers conferences, workshops and retreats in North America to help you along your writing journey.
*Note: Please check COVID-19 rules and restrictions before booking any in-person tickets.
1. Pacific Oregon University Residency Writers Conference
Writers looking to improve their craft will be in residency with MFA students, faculty and guest speakers. Presentations and events include craft talks, workshops, classes and readings.
The residency includes lunches and lodging at Best Western Ocean View Resort in Seaside. Students and faculty will have their own private rooms.
When: January 6-16, 2022; June 16-26, 2022
Where: January – on the northern Oregon Coast in the small, resort town of Seaside June – on Pacific University’s campus in Forest Grove
2. 2022 North Island Writers Conference
Throughout the month of January, notable Canadian writers of all genres will host a writing workshop . Options to register for individual sessions.
Check for prices – some sessions are free and others are not. Open to the public.
When: January 7-23, 2022
Where: Virtual
3. 2022 Moravian Writers’ Conference
A free conference for writers, activists, medical practitioners and narrative medicine specialists on writing about health, healthcare and justice.
When: March 18-19, 2022
Where: Online and in-person ( Moravian University, 1200 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA)
4. Let’s Just Write! An Uncommon Writers Conference
Presented by the Chicago Writers Association, the conference features two-days of in-person conference in Chicago with over 20 presenters, workshops, sessions, and panels on storytelling, publicity, and all other things that a writer needs to know, even a panel on what writers can learn from sports psychology .
When: March 19-20, 2022
Where: The Warwick Allerton Hotel, 701 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL
5. Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference
For writers, teachers, students, editors and publishers. One of the biggest and prestigious writing conferences in North America, attracting thousands of attendees.
Events include panels, discussion rooms, pedagogy events and readings. There are in-person and virtual events, or a virtual-only registration option.
When: March 23-26, 2022
Where: Virtual and in-person ( Pennsylvania Convention Centre, 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA)
6. University of North Dakota Writers Conference
A three-day conference featuring six to eight authors, who will be discussing their work and engaging with the community. Past authors include Gwendolyn Brooks, Tommy Orange and Colson Whitehead. All events are free and open to the public.
When: March 24-26, 2022
Where: In-person and online
7. Breakout Novel Intensive 2.0
Taught by literary agent and author, Donald Maass of the Donald Maass Literary Agency. Ideal for new writers or writers starting a new project, the breakout fundamentals will cover strong characters , inner conflict, personal stakes , plot layers, powerful scenes and more. In-person and virtual options.
When: April 18-24, 2022
Where: Hood River, Oregon
When: June 13-19, 2022
8. Nebraska Writers Guild Annual Conference
A three-day event with a writers retreat and breakout classes. Experts in the industry teach and share their insights on the writing business and craft. More details to be announced.
When: April 21-23, 2022
Where: Comfort Inn and Suites, 7007 Grover Street, Omaha, NE
9. Nonfiction Writers Conference
Taking the traditional writers conference model and redesigning it specifically for nonfiction authors, the Nonfiction Writers Conference helps nonfiction writers find the best publishing path, marketing methods, uncover business and revenue opportunities, and build a powerful platform. Held entirely online.
When: May 4-6, 2022
10. Atlanta Writers Conference
The Atlanta Writers Club is presenting the 26 th Atlanta Writers Conference in-person with virtual options. Writers will be given a chance to access 18 top publishing acquisitions editors and literary agents who are actively seeking new clients. There will be Q&A panels and help with getting your work ready.
When: May 6-7, 2022
Where: Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel, 4736 Best Road, Atlanta, GA
11. 2022 Washington Writers Conference
Attendees get to pitch to three literary agents , as well as network with industry professionals and fellow writers and attend expert sessions.
When: May 13-14, 2022
Where: Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Centre, 5701 Marinelli Road, Rockville, MD
Want to learn how to become a freelance writer? Book a 1-on-1 consultation with Freelance Writer Mike Pietrzak.
12. Annual BIO Conference
Hosted by the Biographers International Organization, seasoned biographers will be present to help guide, mentor and advise attendees on various topics related to the craft of biography writing.
When: May 13-15, 2022
Where: CUNY Graduate Centre (Tentative), 365 5 th Avenue, New York, NY
13. The Writer’s Hotel New York City Writers Conference
The programming has two components: two editor pre-conference team readings and the in-person conference in New York City. The team readings are a comprehensive consultation on each writer’s full-length manuscript, followed by a phone call to discuss strategy on the next steps.
The conference itself features workshops, lectures and one-on-one pitch sessions with literary agents. There is also an industry session for poets. Applications are on a first-come first-serve basis and will close once it’s full.
When: June 8-14, 2022
Where: Various hotels
14. Yale Writers’ Workshop
A seven-day workshop taught by seasoned instructors with strong publication credits. Featuring craft talks, readings and individual meetings with workshop leaders, workshops are done in small groups of 10-12 people.
Participants with book-length manuscripts will be invited to join in pitch sessions. Open to applicants over 18 years old. Admissions are based solely on the writing sample. See website for more details on application process. There is also a workshop for high school students.
When: June 4-11, 2022
Where: 55 Whitney Avenue, Fourth Floor, New Haven, CT
When: June 12-18, 2022
15. Bread Loaf Environmental Writers’ Conference
A week-long conference for anyone interested in writing about the environment and the natural world. Featuring small, focused workshops and specialized classes, participants receive individualized attention from workshop leaders.
Established editors , literary agents and publishers will also be present to give advice on how to place work in magazines and the publishing world.
Where: Bread Loaf Campus of Middlebury College, 75 Franklin Street, Middlebury, VT
16. SleuthFest
For writers and fans of mystery, suspense and thriller fiction. Featuring workshops, craft talks, panels, forensic classes and a cocktail party. Agents and editors will also be accepting pitches.
When: July 7-10, 2022
17. Imaginarium Convention
Imaginarium is part film festival, part writing conference, part cosplay — an expo for all creatives, including writers and creators of all genres. Panelists include authors, editors, publishers, filmmakers, screenwriters, game designers, comic creators, artists, actors, and all other creatives.
When: July 8-10, 2022
Where: Holiday Inn Louisville East, 1325 South Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville, KY
18. The Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference
A conference for writers of all genres, including screenwriters and graphic novel writers. Open to writers in all stages of their career, from aspiring first-time writers to already established writers.
Workshops include one-on-one with agents and publishers to prepare writers for pitch meetings, which are also included in the conference.
When: August 5-7, 2022
Where: Hilton Los Angeles Westside, 6161 West Centinela Avenue, Culver City, CA
19. When Worlds Collide
A festival to connect readers, writers, artists and publishers of commercial and literary fiction of all genres, with public readings, master classes and other workshops on the business of writing.
When: August 12-14, 2022
Where: Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary South, 135 Southland Drive SE, Calgary, AB
20. Fernie Writers’ Conference
A week-long intensive writing workshops, panel discussions and performances in the Rocky Mountains. There will also be opportunities to mix and mingle with editors, literary agents and notable writers who will also be workshop leaders.
When: August 15-21, 2022
Where: Lizard Creek Lodge, Fernie Alpine Resort, 5346 Highline Drive, Fernie, BC
21. Pacific Northwest In-Person Conference
Featuring writing contests in all genres for a chance to win a free critique. There are master classes and pitching sessions. There are also membership options for conference pricing discount.
When: September 23-25, 2022
22. GayRomLit Retreat
For writers, readers and publishers of LGBT literature. More details coming soon.
When: October 19-23, 2022
Where: Renaissance Portsmouth Norfolk Waterfront Hotel, 425 Water Street, Portsmouth, VA
23. Surrey International Writers’ Conference
A professional development event for writers of all genres, featuring master classes, workshops and pitch sessions.
When: October 21-23, 2022; Master classes – October 20, 2022
24. Indie Romance Convention
A smaller setting that provides attendees a chance to get to know each other. Three days of learning, workshops, panels, and fun events at night.
When: November 2-5, 2022
25. The Sarah Lawrence College Publish and Promote Your Book Virtual Conference
Featuring interactive panel discussions with prominent New York City literary agents, major publishing house editors and public relations professionals, author talks, Q&A’s and pitch sessions.
26. WriteOnCon
A favourite for kidlit, middle grade, and YA writers. Perfect if you want to learn everything from how to land an agent, to how to market your book, to how to improve your craft.
When: July 15-17, 2022
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COACHING + PUBLISHING

FORMATTING + DESIGN

FREELANCE COMMUNITY
Writers Conferences 2023: 60 Events Worth Attending
by Dana Sitar | Feb 8, 2023

Because COVID-19 drastically changed the world we live in, some of these conferences were canceled, postponed, or moved partially or entirely online. Check with conference organizers for details.
Ready to connect with literary agents, editors and fellow writers at a writers’ conference?
If you’re tired of learning about interesting opportunities just a little too late, bookmark this list of annual writers’ conferences (both in the U.S. and international) for future planning , so you can join in on the mingling, learning and inspiration.
And while some of these conferences might not happen next year as planned due to the pandemic, many have moved online becoming even more accessible for those who want to attend.
Writers conferences to consider for 2023 and beyond
Here are 60 writing conventions to check out in the coming year. We’ve broken the list into categories, including blogging, freelancing, fiction, and more to help you narrow down on what interests you most.
General interest
1. author advantage live.
When: Annually in August
Where: Online
This 3-day interactive virtual experience contains all the information you’ll need to be successful as an author—no matter your genre or goals! AAL brings a vast list of expert speakers to the table (John Maxwell was the keynote in 2021! Jenna Kutcher and Steven Pressfield in 2022!) and allows you to connect with a community of like-minded authors. Visit this link to get your tickets or get on the waiting list for the next one.

2. San Francisco Writers Conference
When: Annually in February
Where: San Francisco, CA
Held annually in February, this conference is a “celebration of craft, commerce and community.” Connect with industry experts, bestselling authors, agents, editors and leaders in both self-publishing and traditional publishing.
3. San Francisco Writing for Change Conference
When: Annually in September
Where: Online
This nearly monthly-long series of online events tells nonfiction writers, “Your ideas can change the world.” The conference brings together writers and industry experts to teach nonfiction writers about writing, publishing, marketing and technology.
4. Northern Colorado Writers Conference
When: Annually in April/May
Where: Fort Collins, CO, and online
The Northern Colorado Writers group provides support and encouragement to writers of all genres and levels through this annual conference, as well as through monthly meetings, classes and other networking and social events.
The in-person events are open to limited attendees, so you’ll get a more intimate experience.
5. Association of Writers and Writing Programs
When: Annually in Spring
Where: Various North American cities
Each year, the Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP) hosts the Annual Conference & Bookfair in a different city. The event celebrates authors, teachers, students, writing programs, literary centers and publishers in the region hosting the conference. With more than 12 thousand writers and readers attending each year, AWP is the largest literary conference in North America.
6. Las Vegas Writers Conference
When: Annually in spring
Where: Las Vegas, NV
Henderson Writers Group hosts this annual conference for writers. The organization also hosts three meetings per week in Las Vegas. They’re open to the public, and members can read their writing for critique by attendees.
7. Midwest Writers Workshop Super Mini-conference
When: Annually in July
Where: Muncie, IN
This day-and-half conference is a more affordable option for writers at all levels. The Super Mini offers a variety of in-depth small sessions in craft taught by published authors. You’ll also get to mingle with other writers and industry experts.
8. Writing Day Workshops
When and Where: Year-round throughout the U.S. and Canada
Each of these day-long workshops offers a crash course on how to get your book published, with classes and presentations on everything from writing queries to working with an agent to marketing your book.
9. Missouri Writers Guild Conference
Where: St. Louis, MO
The Missouri Writers Guild is a 100+-year-old organization for professional writers in all genres across the Midwest. Join its annual conference for writers at all levels for breakout sessions and masterclasses covering the craft and business of creative writing.
10. Writer’s Winter Escape Cruise
When: Bi-annually February-March (Next: 2023)
Where: Departs from Miami, FL for the Bahamas
Join this unique writers’ conference…at sea.
For five days, writers can enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean Sea while networking and learning about the publishing industry.
Fiction Conferences
11. romance writers of america annual conference.
Where: Location varies
Romance writers gather at this annual genre conference to learn more about the business of being an author. Get an opportunity to meet and mingle with budding and successful romance authors, as well as workshops and events to boost your author career.
12. SleuthFest
When: Annually in February-March
Where: Boca Raton, Florida
SleuthFest is an annual conference for mystery, suspense and thriller writers sponsored by the Florida chapter of Mystery Writers of America.
This conference includes writing and marketing workshops, networking events, and pitch sessions with guest agents and editors. It even includes hands-on forensic workshops!
13. Worldcon and North American Science Fiction Convention
When: Annually
Where: Various locations around the world
The World Science Fiction Convention (“Worldcon”) is an annual gathering of the science fiction and fantasy community, held in a different location around the world each year. When Worldcon is held outside of North America, the corresponding NASFiC is held in North America.
This five-day international conference is attended by thousands of writers, artists, fans, editors, publishers, academics and dealers. The event embraces science fiction in all the forms, including film, TV, art, comics, anime and manga, and gaming.
14. Killer Nashville
Where: Nashville, TN
While attractive to mystery/thriller authors and screenwriters for its unique crime-focused sessions, Killer Nashville welcomes writers of all levels and genres.
“Imagine hearing a CIA Analyst, an FBI agent on terrorism, Dr Bill Bass on The Body Farm, bestselling CJ Box on how he juggles his writing and plans his days, Heyward Gould on screenplays, and so much more. They even had a crime scene, with awards to those who studied the clues and figured out the mystery,” mystery author C. Hope Clark reflected on her 2012 Killer Nashville experience.
15. Virtual Winter Thrills (Thrillerfest)
When: Annually January–March
“It is the only conference where I really feel at home — and [International Thriller Writers] is truly the tribe I belong to…” says Joanna Penn (thriller author J.F. Penn) at The Creative Penn. “I can talk about ways to murder people and weapons of choice and not feel weird. I can learn from some of the biggest names in the business, whose hours of writing experience number in the many thousands.”
Virtual Winter Thrills is the latest iteration of the popular Thrillerfest writers conference from International Thriller Writers. It includes the perennial Practice PitchFest sessions and Master Class with best selling authors, plus a new series of craft and business classes called Winter Thrills MBA.
16. BlogHer Creators Summit
When: Annually in summer
Where: Various U.S. cities
Previously known simply as BlogHer, the reimagined Creators Summit promises to bring all the heat of thought leaders and influencers that the conference has been known for for nearly two decades. Attend workshops, panels and keynotes for anyone who wants to level up their online business. You’ll even get to engage with popular beauty and wellness brands.
17. We All Grow Summit
When: Annually in the spring
Where: Near Los Angeles, CA
We All Grow is a unique professional conference for Latinas working in the digital space. If you’re an online influencer or creative entrepreneur, this conference can help you network with others, learn strategies for personal and business growth, and connect with brands that want to reach your community.
18. Alt Summit
When: Annually in March
Where: Palm Springs, CA
Originally the Altitude Design Summit for design bloggers, this annual conference has expanded since its founding in 2009 to include thousands of creative entrepreneurs, content creators, artists, and influencers. The emphasis is on connecting and collaborating with fellow creatives, and you’ll also get to attend keynotes, panels, and TED-style talks from high-caliber celebrities of popular culture and the online business world.
19. South by Southwest
Where: Austin, TX
South by Southwest has become the country’s premier event for the music, comedy, film and digital technology industries — basically, any creative person or fan! In 2021, they launched the first SXSW Online , a digital extension of the massive convention.
“What I love about SXSW — it always brings out my spontaneous side. I don’t make any plans until five minutes beforehand, and I love it,” says Jenny Blake in a post on Life After College, The Number One Tip for SXSW Newbie .
Freelancing
20. american society of journalists and authors annual conference.
When: Annually in Fall
Attend this one-day conference to learn how to manage a freelance business or publish a book in the new media environment. You can also find other one-day events throughout the year in other U.S. cities, covering various topics relevant to nonfiction writers, journalists and authors.
21. Society for Professional Journalists Spring Conference Series
These day-long professional development meetings take place across 12 regions throughout the U.S. They draw pros, students and educators for networking and training in topics ranging from writing skills to using new technologies.
22. Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing
Learn about new media for journalists, writing for various industries, managing your freelancing business, and more in this three-day conference for journalists and business writers and editors. Also keep an eye out for focused virtual and in-person trainings around the country.
Children’s book writing and illustrating
23. scbwi annual conferences.
When: Various dates
Where: Various locations
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators hosts a slew of regional conferences around the world throughout the year, including the Annual Summer Conference in Los Angeles each August, and the Annual Winter Conference in New York each February.
24. WriteOnCon
Where: Online, WriteOnCon.org
WriteOnCon is an online-only writers’ conference for children’s writers. You can access keynote events and critique forums for free and the rest of the conference content for a fee starting at $10. You’ll also have an opportunity to connect with critique partners.
Christian writing
25. blue ridge mountain christian writers conference.
Where: near Asheville, NC
Held annually at LifeWay Ridgecrest Conference Center nestled in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina, The Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference is the premier training and networking event for both seasoned and aspiring writers and speakers.
26. Northwestern Christian Writers Conference
Where: St. Paul, MN
This annual conference by the University of Northwestern and Faith Radio celebrates and cultivates writers who are Christians. Hone your craft and engage your faith at the same time through keynotes, workshops, Q&A panels, networking events, and one-on-one appointments with professional writers and industry leaders.
International (Outside of U.S.)
27. surrey international writers’ conference.
When: Annually in October
Where: Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
The Surrey International Writers’ Conference is the “most comprehensive professional development conference of its kind in Canada.” Open to writers of all levels and genres, the conference offers an opportunity to show off your work to the international literary marketplace as well as to hone your craft and business skills.
28. The Vancouver Writers Festival
Where: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
In the cultural heart of Vancouver, B.C., on Granville Island, this festival invites authors, poets, spoken word performers and graphic novelists to celebrate the art of the story. It takes place for six days each October and continues throughout the year through special events and the Incite reading series .
In its own words: “The Vancouver Writers Fest turns reading into a community experience, bringing people together to share thoughts, explore ideas and witness brilliant conversations.”
29. Kingston WritersFest
Where: Kingston, Ontario
Writers and readers in attendance will get to participate in thought-provoking discussions and unique events that champion artistic expression and development. Hosted in a notably literary city, this festival is all about “the power of the written word to create a strong, engaged community.”
30. WordFest
When: Annually in April and October
Where: Calgary, Alberta
A not-for-profit charitable arts organization, WordFest “brings readers and writers together through a premier international writers festival and year-round literary events.” Throughout the year, book clubs and other activities are available to those who want to engage with fellow writers and readers. Guests can enjoy readings, workshops, panel discussions and presentations that work toward connecting Calgarians through transformative ideas.
31. Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story
Where: Wingham, Ontario
This annual festival includes readings, workshops, masterclasses and lectures, as well as opportunities to mingle with other writers. It also includes the Alice Munro Short Story Contest for youth and adults. Submissions open in January.
The festival is open to writers from anywhere, but you have to be a Canadian writer to enter the contest.
32. Blue Metropolis Montreal International Literary Festival
When: Annually in April
Where: Montreal, Quebec
This bilingual (English/French) festival features programming for adults and children. Attendees enjoy workshops, readings and lectures from speakers across genres of writing and art.
The festival is free to attend, but you’ll have to pay a fee for select activities.
33. gritLIT
Where: Hamilton, Ontario
This four-day festival is a celebration of Canadian authors. Its purpose is to highlight local writers and engage with the community.
In its own words , “gritLIT brings the best contemporary Canadian writers to Hamilton to engage with local booklovers, to inspire and to be inspired by Hamilton authors, to promote a love of reading in young audiences and to celebrate the exchange of diverse ideas, experiences and viewpoints. ”
34. International Festival of Authors
Where: Toronto, Ontario
Since 1974, this popular festival has highlighted authors of contemporary literature. It includes 11 days of readings, interviews, artist talks, round-table discussions, book signings and several special events.
IFOA features novelists, poets, playwrights, short story writers and biographers from Canada and around the world.
The Toronto Star called this Canada’s “premier literary festival” and “a top destination for both international superstars and up-and-coming writers.”
35 . Lakefield Literary Festival
Where: Lakefield, Ontario
In its own words , the festival “a celebration of the rich literary heritage of Lakefield and the surrounding area which includes the works of Catharine Parr Traill, Susanna Moodie and Isabella Valancy Crawford, among others, all of who lived and wrote in Lakefield. .” It includes author readings and masterclasses in writing for all ages.
Admission price per event ranges between about CA$20 and CA$35.
36. LitFest Alberta
Where: Edmonton, Alberta
LitFest celebrates nonfiction through readings, lectures, panel discussions and workshops. It covers diverse topics — from food writing to feminism. Several events are free. Paid events run about CA$12 each.
37. The Ottawa International Writers Festival
When: Annually in October and April
Where: Ottawa, Ontario
This festival celebrates ideas and imagination! In its own words :
“Twice a year, we convene an international celebration of ideas to recharge our imaginations. From politics to poetry, science to music, history to thrillers, we celebrate the full diversity of the word and the gifted writers who guide us in our exploration of the world.”
Programming includes a poetry cabaret, town-hall style discussion, and fiction and nonfiction readings. To celebrate writing “outside the pages of books,” the festival often includes staged play readings, feature films, documentaries, CD launches and songwriter circles.
38. When Words Collide
Where: Calgary, Alberta
Readers, writers, editors, publishers, agents and other artists attend this festival, which highlights commercial and literary fiction. When Words Collide welcomes writers of most genre fiction, YA, children’s books, nonfiction and poetry.
UK & Ireland
39 . the london book fair.
Where: Olympia, London
In its own words: “The London Book Fair is the global marketplace for rights negotiation and the sale and distribution of content.”
LBF brings together authors, publishers and readers in the cultural hub of London to explore and understand the rapidly-changing publishing world.
40. Dublin Writers’ Conference
When: Annually in June
Where: Dublin, Ireland
From open mic readings to illuminating presentations, here’s what you can expect from the this conference hosted by the book promotion agency Books Go Social :
“This conference will help you to improve your writing craft, publish successfully, and plan the marketing necessary for any author to achieve success whether traditionally published or self-published. This conference provides practical support, valuable training and an opportunity to meet and get to know fellow writers in one of the world’s great literary cities.”
You’ll have the opportunity to attend training sessions led by renowned authors and industry experts, where you’ll learn about the craft and business of writing, as well as connect with fellow writers.
41. Listowel Writers’ Week
When: Annually in May
Where: Listowel, County Kerry, Ireland
Running nearly 50 years, this annual festival for YA literature includes writing workshops, readings, interviews, forums, book launches and masterclasses. Enjoy tours of the historic Irish town and access to local and international writers.
The festival also includes several writing competitions for novel, short story, humor and playwriting. Awards even exist for sports journalism, writing for readers with special needs and writing in prisons.
42. Stoke Newington Literary Festival
Where: London, UK
This festival celebrates the diverse, “radical, rabble-rousing and literary history” of the Stoke Newington area of Hackney in London.
Free and paid events feature readings and performances across genres and media. Admission to paid events ranges from £3 to £10.
43. Strokestown International Poetry Festival
When: Annually during the first weekend in May
Where: Strokestown, County Roscommon, Ireland
This annual festival has been celebrating poetry since 1999. Its mission is to “showcase contemporary poetry, local, national and international, foster the development of emerging writers and consolidate poetry in local cultural life bringing it to the widest possible audience.”
The weekend includes readings from several established and up-and-coming poets, a poetry workshop and poetry competitions for poems in English and Irish.
44. Hay Festival
When: Annually in Fall and Spring
Where: Hay-on-Wye, Wales
President Bill Clinton dubbed this festival “Woodstock of the mind,” according to The Telegraph .
The Hay Festival in Wales joins coinciding festivals around the world to celebrate writing of all kinds through panel discussions and lectures.
In its own words, “Hay celebrates great writing from poets and scientists, lyricists and comedians, novelists and environmentalists, and the power of great ideas to transform our way of thinking.”
45. Canterbury Arts Conference
When: Annually in July or August
Where: Canterbury, Kent, UK
Originally the Warnborough College Conference on the Arts, this conference has grown to accommodate an international audience. It welcomes artists in all disciplines and media, academics, students, historians and other professionals.
Participants have the opportunity to share and publish research, and network with peers. The conference includes creative writing and visual art workshops, as well as presentations of art in a variety of media.
46. Ledbury Poetry Festival
Where: Ledbury, UK
The Daily Mail called this festival, launched in 1997, “the world’s most diverse poetry festival.”
It really has something for everyone. The festival features an array of community events to celebrate the writing and performance of poetry. Attend readings, writing workshops, panel discussions, musical performances, craft seminars and open mics in the “lively and picturesque market town” of Ledbury.
It also includes programs for new writers and a poetry competition .
47. Geneva Writers Group
When: Various dates throughout the year
Where: Various locations in Geneva, Switzerland
This group is brimming with opportunity. It offers several informative events throughout the year: the biennial Geneva Writers’ Conference; a “Meet the Agents” weekend on alternate years; monthly Saturday workshops from September to June that include masterclasses and critiquing sessions; coordinated writing groups; and an annual literary cruise on Lake Geneva.
Whether you’re an established author or just starting out, GWG welcomes writers from around the world and offers a supportive community that encourages creative writing.
48. Paris Café Writing
When: Various dates in April and November
Where: Le Marais, Paris
Patricia Tennison, a professor and author of award-honored books, leads a small group of eight writers in a week-long workshop. Accompanied by her husband Joseph Prendergast, a poet and teacher, Tennison guides writers of all experience levels through five morning seminars and a private writing session.
Some meals and activities are included in the registration fee, but guests are responsible for lodging and transportation.
49. Frankfurt Writers’ Conference
Where: Höchst, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
This conference began in 2018 and anticipates organizing an even bigger and better event each year. In two fun-filled days, the conference hosts an interactive workshop and discussions led by an accomplished list of German and English-speaking literary agents, publishing representatives and writers.
Expect to learn ways to improve your pitch, receive insider knowledge on the world of publishing and more.
50. Bread Loaf in Sicily Writers’ Conference
When: Annually in September
Where: Erice, Sicily
This seven-day writers conference takes place in the beautiful, ancient town of Erice.
Attendance is limited to just five groups of six participants for an intimate experience.
The conference includes small-group workshops, plus classes and lectures for all attendees. It’s open to fiction, poetry and nonfiction writers.
For additional options, check out sister Bread Loaf conferences in Ripton, Vermont .
51 . Information, Medium & Society: Eighteenth International Conference on Publishing Studies
Where: Venice, Italy
Since 2003, this evolving research network has brought writers, readers, publishers, emerging scholars and more together to discuss “investigations on the nature and forms of information, and publishing practices as distinctive modes of social knowledge and cultural production.”
Attend a range of sessions and presentations that allow opportunities for networking and learning more about key issues in the industry.
52. Iceland Writers Retreat
Where: Reykjavik, Iceland
Whether you’re an aspiring, published or hobby writer, you’re welcome to join this international writing retreat. It includes small-group workshops, dinner and receptions for networking, and tours of the area.
This program focuses on literary fiction and nonfiction books, so it’s not a good fit if you want to learn more about freelancing, online writing, genre fiction, poetry or other media.
Asia and Oceania
53. nonfictionow.
When: Annually in December
Where: Wellington, New Zealand
In its own words :
“The NonfictioNOW Conference is a regular gathering of over 400 nonfiction writers, teachers and students from around the world in an effort to explore the past, present, and future of nonfiction.”
Roundtable discussions and keynote speakers highlight a variety of nonfiction, including memoir, essay and literary journalism; and multimedia, including graphic and video essay.
54. Melbourne Writers Festival
When: Annually in late August/early September
Where: Melbourne, Australia
This festival for readers, writers and thinkers engages participants through, storytelling, discussion, intellectual debate, educational programs, live performance, music and art events.
Enjoy writing workshops, lectures and panel discussions on all forms of creative writing.
55. Asian Festival of Children’s Content
When: Annually in May or September
Where: Various Southeast Asian countries
Guests joining this conference get to have unique and culturally rich experiences, hosted in a different Southeast Asian country each year. Workshops, masterclasses, presentations, panels and other events organized by the Singapore Book Council explore the world of children’s publishing, from creation and distribution to consumer consumption.
Whether you’re an academic, a writer, editor, agent, publisher, teacher, parent or anything in between, guests are encouraged to partake in the celebration of Asian content for children and young adults, plus take advantage of opportunities to network and hone their craft.
Central and South America
56. san miguel writers’ conference and literary festival.
Where: San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
Established and emerging writers are welcome at this prestigious multicultural, bilingual (English/Spanish) writers’ conference and literary festival.
Get a chance to network with writers from around the world and hone your craft through workshops, masterclasses, keynote presentations, panel discussions and seminars.
And don’t forget the beautiful location! Bill Maxwell, opinion columnist at Tampa Bay Times, said of his recent experience in San Miguel :
“Rarely have I fallen in love with a landlocked city. … This is a magical place, starting with its colonial architecture. Many of its large and colorful homes are nestled among jacaranda and decorated with bougainvillea. As I walked the narrow cobblestone streets, music and gaiety greeted me.”
57. The Cuenca International Writers Conference
Where: Cuenca, Ecuador
Ready to learn, network and recharge? At this conference, “you’ll laugh, you’ll learn, you’ll meet new friends who understand the writing life, and you’ll return home with a fresh perspective that allows new ideas to flourish.”
Tucked away in what’s considered one of the most beautiful cities in South America, the conference provides writers of all backgrounds intimate networking opportunities with distinguished presenters, stimulating workshops and unforgettable cultural experiences.
58. Belize Writers’ Conference
Where: Hopkins, Belize
This five-day conference invites fiction, creative nonfiction and memoir writers to vacation with literary agents and attend workshops designed to help you boost your career as an author. Conference registration includes meals and lodging at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef resort. Conference participants are selected through an application process.
Indie publishing and self-publishing
59. self publishing advice conference (selfpubcon).
When: Annually in Spring and Fall
This online conference for authors interested in self-publishing runs fringe to the London Book Fair and Digital Book World.
The conference is free and runs 24 sessions — one an hour for 24 hours. You can register to learn how to attend the next conference, and you can attend sessions live or catch up on your own time.
60. Orlando Reads Books
Where: Orlando, FL
This four-day event includes workshops, panels and social events for indie, hybrid and traditionally-published authors. It features sessions on craft and marketing, as well as events that let you mingle with readers and fellow authors.
61. Writer’s Digest Conference
Where: New York City
The Writer’s Digest editors bring you this annual conference with resources for craft, career and creative inspiration. Nearly 50 agents and editors participate in the infamous Pitch Slam, and dozens of industry experts lead educational sessions.
Which writing conventions and conferences do you plan to attend this year? Tell us your favorites in the comments below.

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Top Writers Conferences to Attend in 2022
- on Nov 29, 2021
- in Writing Tips
- Last update: December 27th, 2022
- at 11:10 am
Note: Be sure to check out the 2023 writing conferences list !

Being masters of words, writers tend to always be on the lookout for new tips and tricks to improve their skill. In writing, there’s always room to grow and bloom. That’s why we’ve compiled a huge list of writing conferences happening this year where writers of all stages get to meet and attend writing workshops, editor meetings, Q&A sessions and many other activities that can only be described as inspiring.

Writing and Well-Being

Pacific University Master of Fine Arts in Writing Residency Writers Conference

Key West Literary Seminar

Under the Volcano

The Palm Beach Poetry Festival

Key West Literary Seminar Writers’ Workshop Program

Blackbird Studio for Writers

Arisia 2022

Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway

Colrain Classic

Writers in Paradise Conference

Tupelo’s Online Manuscript Conference

Tupelo Truchas Poetry Conference

The Writer’s Hotel Virtual Pitching & Marketing Weekend

GET THE LEAD OUT!

National Cowboy Poetry Gathering

Todos Santos Writers Workshop

Sierra Writers Conference

Reading, Writing and Applied Linguistics In barcelona

West Coast Christian Writers Online Conference

San Francisco Writers Conference

Southern California Writers’ Conference

Asheville Christian Writers Conference

Southern California Writers Conference – San Diego

Coastal Magic Convention

California Creative Writers Conference

Dahlonega Literary Festival

NAWE Virtual Conference

New York Pitch Conference

Tucson Festival of Books

Scottish Association of Writers Conference

Writing By Writers

Authors’ Salon at Clockwork Alchemy

Let’s Just Write! An Uncommon Writers Conference

The AWP 2022 Conference & Bookfair

UND Writers Conference

The Write Stuff Writer’s Conference

Teen Author Boot Camp IN PERSON Conference

Teen Author Boot Camp VIRTUAL Conference

Kentucky Writers Conference

National Undergraduate Literature Conference

Tuscon Poetry and Imagination Conference

Chanticleer Authors Conference

The Las Vegas Writers Conference

Austin International Poetry Festival

Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference
A rally of writers conference, rally of writers conference.

Norwescon 43

Self Publishing Advice Conference

Independent Publishers Book Association University

Nebraska Writers Guild Conference

NWG Annual Conference and Writing Retreat

Malice Domestic Convention

Paris Cafe Writing

The Muse & the Marketplace

Northern Colorado Writers Conference


Pikes Peak Writers Conference

Word on the Lake Writers’ Festival

The Annual Gold Rush Writers Conference

American Society of Journalists and Authors Annual Conference

Nonfiction Writers Conference

The Lakefly Writers Conference

Atlanta Writers Conference

Bay Area Book Festival

A Weekend With The Authors

Storymakers Conference

Fiction Readers Summit

Pennwriters Annual Conference

Biographers International Organization Conference

Longleaf Writers Conference

Kachemak Bay Writers’ Conference

Kachemak Bay Writers’ Conference

Alderworks Alaska Writers

Looking Glass Rock Writers’ Conference

Bear River Writers’ Conference

Clarksville Writers Conference

Big Sur Children’s Writers Workshops

San Antonio Book Festival

Poetry by the Sea: A Global Poetry Conference

North Words Writers Symposium

Balticon 56

Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference

Thrillerfest XIV

Writing the Midwest: A Symposium of Scholars and Writers

Walker Percy Weekend

Yale Writers’ Conference

Bucknell Seminar for Undergraduate Poets

The Writer’s Hotel

Reader & Author Get Together

Bread Loaf Translators’ Conference

Bread Loaf Environmental Writers’ Conference

Write-to-Publish Conference

Pacific University Residency Writers Conference

The New York Pitch Conference

Colgate Writers Conference

Juniper Summer Writing Institute

Colgate Writers’ Conference

Stonecoast Writers’ Conference

Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference

Information, Medium & Society: Eighteenth International Conference on Publishing Studies

Western Writers of America Convention

Chautauqua Writers’ Festival

Oregon Christian Writers Virtual Summer

ALA Midwinter Meeting & Exhibits

Jackson Hole Writers Conference

Bookstock Literary Festival

Chesapeake Writers’ Conference

Disquiet International Literary Program

Annual Philadelphia Writers’ Conference

The Creativity Workshop In Prague

Ledbury Poetry Festival

Southampton Writers Conference

Writing in Place conference

Book Bonanza 2022

Florida Writing Workshop

Imaginarium Convention

International Creative Writing Conference

The Creativity Workshop in Florence

Tin House Summer Writers’ Workshop

Canterbury Arts Conference

Sun Valley Writers’ Conference

The Creativity Workshop In Barcelona

Catamaran Writing Conference

The Leopardi Writing Conference

Napa Valley Writers Conference

Sitka Writing Adventure

Writer’s Digest Conference

Taos Writers Conference

Florida Authors and Publishers Association Annual Conference

Taylor University’s Professional Writers’ Conference

FAPA Conference

Mendocino Coast Writers’ Conference

The Creativity Workshop in New York

AWP Nonfiction Intensive

Book Lovers Con 2022

When Words Collide

Swanwick Writers’ Summer School

Fernie Writers’ Conference

Reading, Writing and Applied Linguistics In Dubai

Bread Loaf Environmental Writers’ Conference

Nashville’s 16th Annual Writers’ Conference

Melbourne Writers Festival

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers

Milford Writer’s Workshop

Becoming a Master Writer

Creatures, Crimes & Creativity Con

Flathead River Writers Conference

The Black Authors & Readers Rock Conference (BARR)

Next Chapter Con

Bookgardan: A Year’s Sustenance for Women Writers

Write on the Sound Writers’ Conference

Omega Writers Conference

The DFW Writers Conference

The Heartland Fall Forum

Writing Sisters Summit in the Hills

Ozark Creative Writers Conference

Rocky Mountain Literary Festival

The Vancouver Writers Festival

Western Literature Association Conference

Moonlight & Magnolias Conference

Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival

Women Writing the West Annual Conference

Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop

Writer’s Digest Novel Writing Conference

Emerald City Writers’ Conference

Surrey International Writers Conference

Florida Writers Conference

Indie Romance Convention

Medical Writing & Communication Conference

Sanibel Island Writers Conference

La Jolla Writers Conference

Kauai Writers Conference

International Conference on Reading, Writing and Applied Linguistics

The Belize Writers’ Conference
In your journey of becoming the next best selling author, engaging in writing conferences can be of great reward. Don’t miss out and sign up now!
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We want to help you “lift up and lift off” your writing career at 2022’s Colorado Gold Conference with a smashing line-up of keynotes, super-star agents (including for film adaptation), workshops for a variety of topics and genres, and networking galore. (Did someone say Bar-con?)
We’re bringing back Round Table Critiques, Pitch-Prep Coaching, and One-on-One Mentor appointments, as well as keeping the Saturday Publishing Professionals Panel Luncheon and the Sunday Gold Rush Winners Reading Brunch.
Online Registration is now closed!
You can still register onsite on friday, sept 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the registration desk., day-of registration: $649 / $699, early bird may 1 – 31.
Member: $389 Non-Member: $439
Regular Registration June 1 – August 18
Member: $439 Non-Member: $489
Late Registration August 19 – 31
Member: $499 Non-Member: $549
Last Minute September 1 – 5
Member: $549 Non-Member: $599
Sponsored by:

We’re excited to announce Keynote Presentations by:

Katherine Center
BookPage calls Katherine Center “the reigning queen of comfort reads.” She is the New York Times bestselling author of eight books, including How to Walk Away, Things You Save in a Fire, and her newest, What You Wish For . The movie adaptation of her novel The Lost Husband (starring Josh Duhamel) hit #1 on Netflix and her novel Happiness for Beginners is in production now as a Netflix original starring Ellie Kemper. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and the Dallas Morning News calls her stories, “satisfying in the most soul-nourishing way.” Her books have made countless Best-Of lists, including RealSimple ’s Best Books of 2020, Amazon’s Top 100 Books of 2019, Goodreads’ Best Books of the Year, and many more. Katherine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband, two kids, and their fluffy-but-fierce dog.
Order The Bodyguard , HERE.

David L. Robbins,
New York Times best-selling author David L. Robbins has written 16 novels, four professionally produced plays, and, in 2018, was named one of two most influential literary artists in the Commonwealth of Virginia for the past 50 years by the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Robbins lives and writes in his hometown of Richmond, VA, and teaches advanced creative writing at Virginia Commonwealth University. He founded James River Writers, a non-profit helping aspiring writers learn together as a writing community; co-founded the Podium Foundation, supporting writing and communication for youth; founded The Mighty Pen Project, giving Virginia veterans training to turn their memories of military service into written narratives; and founded Frontline Writers, a writing program for first responders.
His new historical fiction novel, Isaac’s Beacon , is a sweeping tale based on the real events of Israel’s founding, bringing alive the power and complexities of the birth of the Jewish state.
And Guest Speaker for our Welcome Event:

Erika T. Wurth,
Erika T. Wurth’s literary-horror/speculative novel, White Horse , is forthcoming with Flatiron/Macmillan. She teaches creative writing at Western Illinois University and has been a guest writer at the Institute of American Indian Arts. Her work has appeared or is forthcoming in numerous journals including Buzzfeed, Boulevard, Lithub , The Writer’s Chronicle , and The Kenyon Review . She is a Kenyon Review Writers Workshop Scholar, attended the Tin House Summer Workshop, and is a narrative artist for the Meow Wolf Denver installation. She is represented by Rebecca Friedman. She is of Apache/Chickasaw/Cherokee descent and was raised outside of Denver, where she lives with her partner, her two stepchildren, and her extremely fluffy dogs.
Pre-Order White Horse , HERE .
Hosting the Colorado Gold this year is The Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center

13200 East 14th Place Aurora, CO 80011
The room Rate is $129 per night. The conference dates are Sept 9th to 11th, but the room rate applies for Sept 5th through 13th should you wish to extend your stay.
Conference Info

Friday Morning Masterclasses:
(Add on, $75 each, Friday, Sept 9th 2022, 8am to 11:50am)
(1) How Artists Game System: A Study in Positioning Your Work – Molly McGhee (Intermediate)
The market for books is shrinking. Selling one is even harder now than it was in the past. In this four hour master class we’ll look at how to position yourself to sell your work— without sacrificing the boldness of your voice and vision. Most pitch sessions focus on hitting all the “rules” of pitching. This is helpful, but Writers are also Artists, and with a broader understanding of how the business of books operates, they can remain that way without letting publishing systems overpower their artistic intent. This is a class that aims to empower authors, build their confidence, and embolden them to approach the book world as they want to, not as is demanded of them.
(2) Point of View: The Most Important Choice A Writer Makes, and How to Make It – David L. Robbin (Beginner to Intermediate)
The last thing a writer should do is type. The first thing is design. Among the most important elements to be determined before the narrative begins is Who Tells The Story. This selection is pivotal. We’ll survey how to select the correct POV, and why.
(3) Talking About Speculative Literature: Origins, Definitions, and Craft – Erika T Wurth (Intermediate)
This workshop is centered around speculative literature: the definitions, the craft, and how it relates to the basics of all good writing.
(4) Write Characters Your Readers Won’t Forget – Stant Litore (Beginner to Intermediate)
Riveting, evocative storytelling hinges on the choices your characters make. By charting a handful of critical moments of choice in your story, you can create a powerful character arc to guide your storytelling decisions.
(5) You Had Me at Hello: Writing an Effective Opening – Heather Webb (Beginner to Intermediate)
Learn what makes an opening grabby—or trite—and how to win the agent’s or the editor’s eye for which you’re vying. We’ll look at first lines, clichés, and techniques for making opening pages appealing. Attendees may submit pages ahead of time for feedback from the instructor and should bring those pages for real-time critique with peers.
Want to advertise with Colorado Gold?
We have two ways you can offer your services to our attendees!
Become a vendor or sponsor! Sign up HERE or contact Connie for more information at [email protected]
OR Put an ad in our conference program. Sign up HERE .
Looking for ways to be more involved in the Conference Operations?
The conference co-chairs are seeking volunteer interns to learn the ropes with the hope they’ll step into the role in the future. If you are proficient in events operations or management and want to learn the ins and outs of running a writers’ Conference, email [email protected] with information about your experience and why you’d like to be involved.
Of course, if that doesn’t sound like a good fit for you, we need many other volunteers to make the weekend run smoothly, so consider volunteering as a moderator, registration desk attendant, or in one of our many other roles.
CLICK HERE to register to volunteer, or email our Volunteer chair — [email protected]
Conference Code of Conduct
The RMFW Colorado Gold Writers Conference is dedicated to providing an inclusive, harassment-free conference experience for everyone regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, disability, physical appearance, level of education, or writing experience. We do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form. Conference participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the conference without a refund at the discretion of the conference organizers. Our anti-harassment policy can be found at: Code of Conduct


Curiosity Never Killed the Writer

Jul 23, 2022
26 Awesome Writing Conferences in August 2022
A ugust is hot, hot, hot! So head for the coast! This August there are more than two dozen writing conferences. Many conferences and workshops will be held online, but some will be held in person or use a hybrid format.
These writing events offer everything a writer might want: intensive workshops, pitch sessions with agents, to how to market yourself and your books, discussions — there is something for everyone.
For a full list of conferences held throughout the year see Writing Conferences . If you miss an application deadline, put it on your calendar for next year. Quite a few conferences offer scholarships, so apply early. Plan ahead!
____________________
Fine Arts Work Center Summer Workshops (poetry, fiction, art, and creative nonfiction). June 5 — August 19, 2022: Provincetown, Massachusetts. Last year’s faculty included David Baker, Samiya Bashir, Jill Bialosky, Sophie Cabot Black, Gabrielle Calvocoressi, Martha Collins, Kate Daniels, Nick Flynn, Vievee Francis, Gabriel Fried, Jorie Graham, Marie Howe, Major Jackson, Fred Marchant, Gail Mazur, Jane Mead, John Murillo, Eileen Myles, Matthew Olzmann, Gregory Pardlo, Carl Phillips, Rowan Ricardo Phillips, Victoria Redel, Martha Rhodes, Brenda Shaughnessy, Nicole Sealey, Alan Shapiro, Carmen Giménez Smith, Craig Morgan Teicher and many more. See individual workshops for dates.
Mendocino Coast Writers Conference . August 4 — August 6, 2022: Mendocino, California. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft seminars, panels, one-on-one manuscript consultations, and open mics. The faculty includes poet Claudia Castro Luna, fiction writers Jean Chen Ho and Lydia Kiesling, creative nonfiction writer Faith Adiele, and cross-genre writer Anastacia-Reneé. Fiction writer Karen Tei Yamashita will give the keynote address. Participating publishing professionals include agent Jonah Straus (Straus Literary). The registration fee is $675 and includes morning workshops, all afternoon events, and breakfast and lunch each day. One-on-one manuscript consultations are available for an additional $60. Lodging is available at a wide range of accommodations on the Mendocino Coast, including oceanfront inns, campgrounds, glamping facilities, and motels. The registration deadline is June 30.
Cape Cod Writers Center Conference . August 4–6, 2022: 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! Will be held virtually.
Ocean View Writing Getaway . August 4–7, 2022: Atlantic City, NJ. “Our experienced workshop leaders plan their sessions to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.” This program is presented by Murphy Writing of Stockton University in collaboration with AC Residential Life.
Kansas City Writing Workshop . August 5–6, 2022: Kansas City. This is an online “How to Get Published” writing event on August 5–6, 2022. (Writers are welcome to attend virtually from everywhere and anywhere.) 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.
Into the Springs Writers Workshop . August 5–7, 2022: Yellow Springs, OH. Faculty for 2022 are John Kachuba, Raul Ramos, and Juliette Hyland.
Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators Annual Conference . August 5–7, 2022: Via Zoom. More than 100 writers, editors, illustrators, & agents. Workshops, breakout sessions, manuscript and portfolio consultations, panels, discussions. Will be held online .
Willamette Writers Conference . August 5 -7, 2022: 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. Will be held online and in person .
The Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference , August 5–7, 2022: 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.
Mystery Writers Conference . August 5–7, 2022: 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.
Colrain Classic . August 5–8, 2022. “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.”
The Writer’s Hotel Virtual Summer Fiction Workshop . August 6–28, 2022. All fiction genres. “TWH Virtual Summer Fiction Workshop program centers on weekend writing workshops and lectures over four weeks, plus two full manuscript readings by TWH Editors, one-on-one agent pitching sessions and attendee readings. Space is extremely limited. There will be two cohorts of just 14 people each.” App deadline: May 16, 2022
EPIC: Elena Hartwell Taylor Writing Workshop . August 6, 2022. Fiction, narrative nonfiction, and memoir manuscripts that lack a solid foundation are a common problem for writers, and an issue that developmental editors see over and over again. Flawed stucture can impact even a “well-written” manuscript, as beautiful sentences can’t cover flaws in foundation. Join author and developmental editor Elena Hartwell Taylor for a two-hour virtual writers’ workshop to analyze issues in structure, such as scenes unrelated to the plot, or starting too soon in your story, no clear inciting incident; discover the difference between plot and story; and develop strategies to complete a first draft or for approaching rewrites.
PJ Library Retreat: Picture Book Summer Camp for Emerging Writers . August 7–11, 2022: Honesdale, 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 the Highlights Foundation.” Application Deadline: on or before April 28, 2022 .
Elk River Writers Workshop . August 7–12, 2022: 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. Faculty members Camille Dungy, Sean Hill, J. Drew Lanham, Beth Piatote, and Laura Pritchett.
Writing on the Door: “August Master Class Series ,” August 8–12, 2022: Fish Creek, WI. With Lan Samantha Chang (Fiction), Nan Cohen (Poetry), & Kyoko Mori (Nonfiction) The Writing On The Door Week-Long Master Class Series offers intensive sessions in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for intermediate to advanced writers.
Vermont College of Fine Arts Postgraduate Writers’ Conference . August 8–14, 2022: Montpelier, Vermont. The conference is designed for writers with graduate degrees or equivalent experience. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as readings, craft classes, and individual consultations with faculty members. “At the heart of the Postgraduate Writers’ Conference’s unique model is the small workshop size, with groups led by acclaimed faculty limited to five or six writers. The intimate format allows for an extraordinarily in-depth, far-reaching discussion of participants’ work. Beyond the daily group sessions, each member has an individual consultation with the workshop instructor. The schedule also features a rich menu of readings by faculty and participants, craft talks, generative writing sessions and social events that galvanize our vibrant, inclusive community.” \
So You Want to be an Author/Illustrator? Online Course . August 11 — September 15, 2022. Explore the possibilities of moving from Illustrator to Author/Illustrator, or becoming an Author/Illustrator. Learn how to find ideas and move from sketch to story ideas. Explore narrative drawing, pagination, thumbnail sketches and dummy (mock-up) creation. Will be held online .
HippoCamp Creative Nonfiction Conference . August 12–14, 2022: Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This three-day creative writing conference in PA features 50+ notable speakers, engaging sessions in four tracks, interactive panels, readings, social activities, networking opps and optional, intimate pre-conference workshops.
The Whole Novel Workshop . August 12–16, 2022: Honesdale, PA. This intensive Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft (up to 80,000 words) of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and two private consultations provided. Attention in an intimate setting makes this program one that guarantees significant progress in preparation for submission. This Whole Novel Workshop is specifically designed for writers of novels for children and teens. Application Deadline: May 20, 2022.
Horror Bites . August 13, 2022. “Horror Bites serves up a series of short horror writing workshops, covering some of the most essentials elements of the genre, including atmosphere, characterisation, pacing, writing violence and more. Led by horror writer, workshopper and Creative Writing Lecturer Alex Davis, HORROR BITES gives you the chance to take a big bite of horror or select some light bites from the workshop buffet…” Tickets £28 for full day or £7 per workshop session. Virtual .
Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference . August 17–27, 2022: 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.
Killer Nashville Writers’ Conference . August 18–21, 2022: 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.”
Travel Writers & Photographers Conference . August 18– 21, 2022: 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.
Poetry at the Frost Farm . August 19–21, 2022: 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.”
The Alabama Writers’ Conclave . August 26–28, 2022: Mountain Brook, 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.
Applications due in August
Orion Online Poetry Workshop . September 5 — October 10, 2022. Online. The Course: Unbearable Beauty and the Romanticization of Place” After all, beauty has only three possible endings, and only one of them is bearable,” said the poet Larry Levis. A poet very much associated with place, Levis mythologized the beauty of the California Central Valley while also acknowledging the unbearable violence in the landscape. How can the beauty of landscape simultaneously exist with what is unbearable about it? This workshop will explore how poets have used place, landscape, and the environment to create the tenuous emotional textures, and nuanced complexities of the spaces they inhabit. Beyond the thematic discussions of place, this course will engage in critical discussions of craft, aesthetics, poetic traditions, and contemporary modes of writing in order to encourage experimentation and innovation in people’s work to extend their modes of expression into new territories. Through generative exercises, participants will have the opportunity to write and share new work for workshopping.” The Instructor: Marcelo Hernandez Castillo is a poet, essayist, translator, and immigration advocate. Duration: This class meets once a week over six consecutive Monday evenings from 6–9 pm ET. Apply by August 5th.
Kaz Conference Keep Writing Virtual Nonfiction Cohort . Sept — Oct, 2022. Workshops include developmental workshops as well as talks on the practical training of writers with input from editors, publicists, agents, social media experts and productivity coaches. Because reading and reviewing other work helps to strengthen ones own writing, peer review is a requirement of all sessions. Just 10 to 16 writers are accepted for each cohort. Will be held online. Apply by August 15, 2022.
Like this article? For more articles about the publishing world, useful tips on how to get an agent, agents who are looking for clients, how to market and promote your work, building your online platform, how to get reviews, self-publishing, as well as publishers accepting manuscripts directly from writers (no agent required) visit Publishing and Other Forms of Insanity .
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19 Writing Conferences For Emerging and Established Writers

Reading Lists
Build connections, generate new work, and learn from the leading writers of today.

Writing conferences serve many purposes. They’re places to meet other writers and build community. They’re places to help polish up existing writing or generate new work. They’re places to reset and get inspired. They’re places to meet agent, editors, and other members of the publishing literati. They’re even places to party. Still, they can feel difficult to get into, mind-boggling to research, and like an insular club that only established writers seem to know about. Grown out of this short Twitter thread , here is a list of 19 writing conferences to consider applying to.
Two caveats:
1) Things are in flux because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which means many of these conferences could switch to an online format or choose to temporarily pause applications to because of a backlog of accepted attendees from 2020/21. Keep an eye on the application deadlines and updates.
2) Because many of these conferences, especially the older ones, come from a long tradition of upholding the supremacy of white, and often male writers, many writers from marginalized backgrounds, including myself, have faced discrimination and microaggressions at them over the years. However, like most institutions confronted with the ways they have failed people on the margins, these conferences are working to make changes.
The Historic
These conferences have been nurturing writers for many years, and typically attract a significant number of applicants.
Sewanee Writers Conference
Held on the campus of the University of the South, 90 minutes from Nashville, the Sewanee Writers Conference is a twelve-day conference that provides workshops across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and playwriting. The conference fee for “contributors” is $1,800, which covers food and lodging for twelve days. Financial aid is available for “Scholars” ($700 tuition, applicants should have a number of genre-specific publications) and “Fellows” (full scholarship, applicants should have a book published by an academic or commercial publisher). Past notable agents and editors who have attended and taken meetings with writers at Sewanee include Michelle Brower, Renee Zuckerbrot, Margaret Riley King, Sally Kim.
Bread Loaf Writers Conference
Held on the campus of Middlebury College in Vermont, Bread Loaf is an eleven-day conference with workshops for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. The conference fee for “contributors” is $3,810 and includes tuition, room, and board. Substantial scholarships are available at three different levels—the contributor (earlier stage writers), scholar (has publications in journals, prizes, or other wards), and fellow (must have published their first or second book within the last four years) level. Bread Loaf in 2019 eliminated a controversial program called the “Wait Scholar” program where recipients of financial aid were expected to provide service at the conference as waiters to other attendees. Writer Alexander Chee is a known friend of Bread Loaf, as are the literary agents PJ Mark and Miriam Altshuler, among others.
Tin House Workshops
Held twice a year, the Tin House workshops include both summer and winter sessions, for short fiction, novel, nonfiction, and poetry. The larger summer conference is normally held over a week on the Reed College campus, while the smaller winter conference is held over four days at the Sylvia Beach Hotel on the Oregon coast. Anecdotally, the Tin House conferences are known for prioritizing diversity—both among attendees and among faculty and guests. Attendees meet one agent and one editor during the conference and are usually required to write a query letter and/or synopsis ahead of these meetings, which can be a helpful way to codify one’s writing project. The cost for the summer conference is about $1,600 which includes tuition, accommodation, and all meals; the cost for the winter conference is approximately $1,300 for tuition, accommodation, and some meals. Full scholarships are available, though an additional essay of up to 1,500 words is required in order to apply.
Kenyon Review Writers Workshop
Held on the campus of Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, about 90 minutes from Columbus, the Kenyon conference distinguishes itself by being focused entirely on generating new work. For seven days, writers are expected to produce new work (fiction, nonfiction, poetry) daily to be shared in workshop. The environment is warm and welcoming, which makes the prospect of sharing new, raw work much less daunting. Scholarships are only available up to 50%, total fees are $2,295 for tuition, lodging, and food.
Juniper Institute
Held for a week at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Juniper offers fiction, poetry, and nonfiction workshops designed for sharing works-in-progress for feedback and for generating new work. Tuition is $2,000 and includes some meals. Accommodation on the campus is a separate cost. Five full scholarships are available and include tuition and accommodation.
The Genre-Inflected
Writers of speculative fiction, sci-fi, and fantasy should consider applying to workshops built to support genre fiction.
Clarion Writers’ Workshop
Held on the University of San Diego California’s campus, Clarion is a six-week intensive focused on fundamentals particular to the writing of science fiction and fantasy short stories. Tuition is typically $5,150 for the six weeks, including accommodation and meals. Partial scholarships are available and range between $150 and $4,000. Typically, 18 writers are accepted.
Odyssey Writing Workshop
Held on the campus of Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, Odyssey is a six-week intensive curriculum designed for both workshopping existing work and generating new work in the genres of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Tuition is $2,450 and includes a textbook and dinner; housing on campus apartments is an additional cost, as is additional meals. A handful of scholarships are available.
The Community-Driven
Founded in response to the challenges of white supremacy and cisheteropatriarchy in literature and publishing, these prestigious writers’ conferences help marginalized writers build community.
Lambda Literary Writers Retreat
For LGBTQ writers across genres (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, young adult fiction, playwriting, screenwriting, and speculative fiction), the week-long conference is typically held at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, though the 2022 session will be held virtually. Tuition for the 2022 session is $950 and both full and partial scholarships are available.
For Asian American poets and fiction writers, the highly selective retreat is held at Fordham University’s campus in the Bronx, NYC. The conference fee, which is $375, covers tuition, room, and board for five days. Additional scholarships are sometimes provided to applicants after acceptance.
For Black poets, the week-long Cave Canem retreat is held at the University of Pittsburgh’s Greenburg, Pennsylvania campus.
For Black fiction writers, the week-long retreat is held at Southern Methodist University in Taos, New Mexico. Tuition is covered by Kimbilio, but room and board fees vary depending on the accommodation chosen.
For Latinx poets, the retreat accepts 25-30 poets a year and is currently held at University of Arizona Poetry Center in Tucson, Arizona (venue changes based on ongoing partnerships). Workshops are designed to be generative.
Founded in 1995 by Sandra Cisneros, the weeklong Macondo workshops, held in San Antonio, Texas, are open to Latinx writers across poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Participants pick between reading/response workshops and generative workshops held for three hours daily. Partial scholarships are available.
The Locales
At higher price points with limited financial aid, these conferences are more expensive than the others, but make up for it by providing beautiful surroundings or new cities to accompany your week of writing.
Disquiet International
Held in Lisbon, Portugal over two weeks, the conference brings writers from North America into conversation with Portuguese writers and features workshops in fiction, memoir, nonfiction, poetry, and writing the Luso experience. Tuition is $1,950 and does not include accommodation, food, or airfare. Disquiet holds an annual writing contest which provides conference scholarships to the winners of the contest.
Held at the luxury Le Sireneuse Hotel in Positano, Italy, the conference is six days, typically in April. Fees are $5,000 and cover accommodation and food. Workshops are mixed genre across fiction and memoir, and are taught by authors Jennifer Finney Boylan, Hannah Tinti, Dani Shapiro, and Jim Shepard.
Community of Writers
Held at Olympic Valley at the foot of the ski slopes at Lake Tahoe, California over six days, the conference is open to fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writers. Several scholarships are available across the genres.
Mendocino Coast Writers’ Conference
Located in California’s Mendocino Coast, the conference is three days long and features workshops across fiction (novel and short fiction), nonfiction, poetry, and more, as well as agent pitching events. Financial aid is available to emerging writers in various categories.
Aspen Summer Words
Held in Aspen, Colorado, workshops are available for fiction, memoir, narrative nonfiction, middle grade, and book editing. Partial scholarships are offered on need and merit basis. The conference also provides a cohort of “Emerging Writer Fellows” with full scholarships to attend the conference. Fellows are nominated by writers, agents, editors, and other members of the Aspen Words community.
Napa Valley Writers Conference
Held at Napa Valley College over six days in the heart of California’s wine country, this conference holds fiction, poetry, and translation workshops. Tuition is approximately $1,000 and does not include accommodations, food, or travel. A small number of full and partial scholarships are available.
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The Top Writers’ Conferences for 2023 by Book Publicist Scott Lorenz
by Scott Lorenz | Blog , Book Promotion , Book Publicity , Marketing a Book , Promoting a Book , Writers Conferences , Writing a Book | 4 comments

By Scott Lorenz Westwind Communications
If you are a serious writer with high aspirations, then you’ll want to go to a writers’ conference. Want to meet authors and exchange ideas, tips and techniques? Then sign up for a writer’s conference today.
A writers’ conference is a think tank for authors to build on each other’s ideas and inspire new achievements in their own work. For the cost of lodging and registration, the payoff for attending a writers’ conference could be tremendous.
Attending a writers’ conference gives you a chance to pitch your book, learn about the various publishing options and meet book editors, agents and book marketing specialists. If your book is six months or a year from being finished, you can talk to people with valuable input on shaping your book. At a writers’ conference, you’ll get all sorts of advice to help you wrap up your project when you return home.
Of course, you will want to prepare for any writers’ conference you attend by having a plan of what you want to find out and what you will do while there. I suggest you develop an ‘elevator pitch’ about your book that you can deliver in 30 seconds. Have a one-pager available with your book cover, author headshot, short 50-word synopsis, short bio, website URL, Twitter handle and your contact information. You never know who you’ll meet so be prepared for that moment!
Here are some upcoming writers’ conferences in 2023:
January 14-21, 2023: Writers in Paradise Conference (St. Petersburg, FL). Located on the beautiful waterfront campus of Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, this writers’ conference features professional writers at the top of their form spending quality time with motivated and talented participants seeking an intimate, unhurried climate for learning…in paradise. https://www.writersinparadise.com/
January 20-21, 2023: Roanoke Regional Writers Conference 2023 (Roanoke, VA). Welcome! It’s my extreme honor to invite you to the 14th Annual Roanoke Regional Writers Conference! This is the perfect event to learn, grow, and connect with other writers in the area. RRWC23 takes place on January 20-21, 2023, at Hollins University in Roanoke. The snow date is January 27-28. The cost of the conference is $70 ($25 for students and faculty), including brunch in the dining hall on Saturday. https://www.hollins.edu/events/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D163162100
February 8-16, 2023: 2023 Sierra Writers Conference (Rocklin, CA). The 2023 Sierra Writers Conference celebrates the 20th anniversary of Sierra College Press and Standing Guard, its landmark book of stories about Japanese internment during WWII. This year’s conference draws on the spirit of the Sierra College Press, its first publication, and the talent of a diverse group of speakers who will discuss and provide instruction on stories of social justice, the environment, and the craft of writing. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-sierra-writers-conference-tickets-470040352347
February 16–19, 2023: 19th annual San Francisco Writers Conference (San Francisco, CA). The San Francisco Writers Conference (“SFWC”) enjoys a rich literary culture. Over the course of four days, over 500 attendees and renowned keynote authors, presenters, editors, and agents, attend SFWC, combining the best of both the traditional publishing industry with the latest technology to empower authors to publish anywhere. Situated just north of Silicon Valley, the SFWC is truly a one-of-a-kind celebration of craft, commerce, and community. https://www.sfwriters.org/
February 17-19, 2023: Southern California Writers Conference (San Diego, CA). 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, having facilitated well over $4 million worth of first-time authors’ book and screen deals. https://writersconference.com/sd/
February 20-24, 2023: 28th Annual Writers at the Symposium by the Sea (San Diego, CA). Writer’s Symposium by the Sea is an annual event to inspire readers and writers alike, featuring evocative conversations with exemplary writers from various genres, backgrounds, and perspectives. During each interview, the audience is invited to actively listen in as writers share what inspires their writing and delve into the practices that propel their success. https://www.pointloma.edu/opportunities/writers-symposium-sea
February 24, 2023: 21st Annual Rocky Mountain Legal Writing Conference (Las Vegas, NV). The Rocky Mountain Regional Legal Writing Conference began in 2000 at University of Arizona Law as the brainchild of Professor Suzanne Rabe (University of Arizona Law), Professor Judy Stinson (Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU) and Professor Terrill Pollman (William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV). The three professors designed the conference as an informal exchange of teaching ideas among legal writing professors from schools in the loosely defined “Rocky Mountain” region, but it quickly grew into one of the largest and most popular regional legal writing conferences in the nation, drawing participants from across the nation and, indeed, across the globe. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rocky-mountain-legal-writing-conference-tickets-426601325047
March 2-3, 2023: Write to Learn Conference (Columbia, MO). This year’s conference theme will be “Compassion as Our Compass, Diversity Without Distrust,” a variation on best-selling author Padma Venkatraman’s opening keynote address title. https://web.cvent.com/event/62fe5b66-3dbb-4204-908b-c3d854fc95f7/summary
March 2-3, 2023: 26th ASU Writers Conference in Honor of Elmer Kelton (San Angelo, TX). The 2023 conference will commemorate the 26th Angelo State University’s Writers Conference in Honor of Elmer Kelton. Our two-day conference is one of the few in the state that requires no registration or attendance fees for presenters and guests. https://www.angelo.edu/departments/english-modern-languages/writers_conference.php
March 3-4, 2023: I Write Writing Conference (Denver, CO). Whether you are a Creator, Author, or Soon-to-Be, this conference was designed with you in mind. Giving you a 2-Day Experience for you to network with others in your field. Come Learn, Create, and Thrive with us! https://www.iwriteconference.com/
March 4, 2023: Bay to Ocean Writers Conference 2023 (Wye Mills, MD). Now celebrating its 26th year, the Bay to Ocean Writers Conference is a one-day event that has attracted more than 4,000 writers over its history. It is sponsored by the Eastern Shore Writers Association (ESWA), a non-profit organization of writers from across the Delmarva Peninsula. https://www.easternshorewriters.org/event-5053495
March 6-7, 2023: Writing For Your Life Conference (Atlanta, GA). If you write, or read, books that matter – books with substance and soul – then this is the place for you. https://writingforyourlife.com/wfyl-atlanta-2023/
March 10-12, 2023: SAGA 2023 Genre Fiction Writers’ Conference (Winston-Salem, NC). SAGA is fast becoming the premier genre fiction writing conference east of the Mississippi. With a concentration on genre writing (science fiction, fantasy, romance, mystery, thriller, horror, etc.), SAGA brings the master class-style presentation of a professional writers’ conference to commercial fiction, with presentations and workshops focused both on craft and on the business of writing. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/saga-2023-genre-fiction-writers-conference-tickets-349890049557
March 11, 2023: AWP Conference 2023 (Seattle, WA). The AWP Conference & Bookfair is the annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers of contemporary creative writing. It includes thousands of attendees, hundreds of events and bookfair exhibitors, and four days of essential literary conversation and celebration. The AWP Conference & Bookfair has always been a place of connection, reunion, and joy, and we are excited to see the writing community come together again in Seattle, Washington in 2023. https://www.awpwriter.org/awp_conference/
March 11, 2023: The 2023 Atlanta Writing Workshop (Atlanta, GA). The title of the Atlanta Writing Workshop is “How to Get Published.” It focuses on classes and advice intended to help you get your works published. https://atlantawritingworkshop.com/
March 17-18, 2023: Moravian Writers Conference (Bethlehem, PA). This conference (featuring in-person and online events) will explore writing about war and the veteran experience in today’s world. https://www.moravian.edu/writersconference
March 23-25, 2023: 54th Annual UND Writers Conference (Grand Forks, ND). Founded in 1970 and held every year since, the UND Writers Conference is a three-day event featuring six to eight authors annually 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. https://und.edu/writers-conference/
March 25, 2023: Kentucky Writers Conference (Bowling Green, KY). Bestselling authors and educators participating in SOKY Book Fest will teach craft workshops about everything from plotting techniques to employing poetic language to getting published on Saturday, March 25. The Kentucky Writers Conference is made possible through the generous support of Dollar General. https://sokybookfest.org/programs/ky-writers-conference/
March 25-26, 2023: Let’s Just Write! An Uncommon Writers Conference (Chicago, IL). Let’s Just Write! An Uncommon Writers Conference was named one of the best conferences in the U.S. by The Writer Magazine two years in a row! Two days, twenty-plus presenters, workshops, sessions, panels…and more. https://www.chicagowrites.org/conference
March 30, 2023: Tampa Bay Publishing Conference (St. Petersburg, FL). The three-day conference includes authors sharing their personal publishing journeys and what they learned along the way, as well as panels tackling topics related to publishing and writing for poets, fiction writers, memoirists, and others. http://www.wordierthanthou.com/tampa-bay-publishing-conference-2021
March 29 – April 1, 2023: Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference (Andalusia, AL). At Blue Lake Christian Writers Retreat, you’ll experience the benefits of a large writers’ conference, but on a more personal level. Whether you’re a beginning or experienced writer, interested in fiction or nonfiction, our faculty of seasoned professionals can teach you how to improve your writing skills, market your work, and get published. https://bluelakecwr.com/
March 31 – April 4, 2023: Vision Christian Writers Conference (Felton, CA). The Vision Christian Writing Conference is the response to the devastating news that Mt. Hermon was ceasing their legacy 50-year writing conference at the beginning of the pandemic. https://vcwconf.com/
April 1-2, 2023: South Asian Literary Association Annual Conference (San Antonio, TX). In the 2023 annual meeting of SALA, we take seriously the call for collective action, coalition building and solidarity between Black and South Asian peoples across the world in the aftermath of Black Lives Matter and new awareness about anti-Asian racism. https://www.southasianliteraryassociation.org/
April 1-2, 2023: Write In The Springs – ACFW Colorado Springs Christian Writer’s Conference (Colorado Springs, CO). American Christian Fiction Writers, Colorado Springs Chapter, has offered an affordable conference experience for Christian writers annually since 2009. We invite you to join us at Glen Eyrie Castle in the foothills of Colorado Springs, Colorado, for an unforgettable weekend of teaching, fellowship and inspired writing, whether you are already an established author or just starting your journey to publication. https://allevents.in/colorado%20springs/write-in-the-springs-acfw-colorado-springs-christian-writers-conference/10000433110223337
April 13-15, 2023: Las Vegas Writers Conference (Las Vegas, NV). This year – and every year – the Las Vegas Writers Conference is dedicated to helping writers of all genres improve their craft, sharpen their business skills, and network with publishing professionals. Held each spring, this year’s conference will draw virtual attendees from around the world. Pitch sessions with literary agents and editors are included in the price of registration. Writers will have the opportunity for one-on-one mentoring sessions with faculty members and other published authors. https://lasvegaswritersconference.com/
April 13-17, 2023: Monterey Writers Retreat Conference (Pacific Grove, CA). Join us on the wondrously scenic and soothing Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove for the express purpose of working intimately with experienced author and agent professionals. Know that writers of every kind have journeyed for over a century to this location on the California west coast. They 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. https://montereywritersretreat.com/
April 14-15, 2023: 26th Annual Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference (Blue Ridge, GA) . The Blue Ridge Writers Conference is a hidden gem tucked away at the tip of the blue ridge mountains. This year’s keynote speaker, Melissa Fay Green, is an award-winning nonfiction author. Green will be one of many professional authors taking part in discussions and panels at the event. https://www.blueridgewritersconference.com/registration-forms.html
April 20-22, 2023: NWG Annual Conference (Omaha, NE). The Nebraska Writers Guild offers three days of consultations, critique boot camps, and shop talk seminars. Appointments with literary agents like Kristina Slater are first-come, first-served, and have no extra cost. This conference is perfect for writers who would rather focus on intimate group or pair discussions rather than large panels. Workshops are capped to allow for in-depth discussion and a focus on networking without small talk. https://nebraskawriters.org/news-events/annual-events/annual-conference.html
April 22-23, 2023: International Conference on Linguistics and Literary Semantics ICLLS (Boston, MA). International Conference on Linguistics and Literary Semantics aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of Linguistics and Literary Semantics. It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered, and solutions adopted in the fields of Linguistics and Literary Semantics. https://waset.org/linguistics-and-literary-semantics-conference-in-april-2023-in-boston
April 27-30, 2023: 30th Annual Pikes Peak Writers Conference (Colorado Springs, CO). Pikes Peak Writers Conference will be held virtually this year. Writers can participate in workshops taught by subject matter experts and listen to keynote speakers. A 3-day fiction-writing conference for writers of all levels, indie and traditionally published, featuring a variety of craft and business workshops, acquiring editors/agents and well-known authors across a variety of genres. https://pikespeakwritersconference.com/
April 27-30, 2023: The Chanticleer Authors Conference (Bellingham, WA). What makes the Chanticleer Author Conferences so special? Most importantly, the attendees! You are what makes this conference so special. Learning from the experts – Learn from the Best! Learning from each other and Networking and making new friends and connections. https://www.chantireviews.com/chanticleer-conference/
April 28-30, 2023: Sonoma Valley Author’s Festival 2023 (Sonoma, CA). 2023 will be the Sonoma Valley Authors Festival’s 6th annual three-day weekend. Featuring an influential array of authors and speakers at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, the event sold out all 400 hundred passes in 2022. The same response is anticipated for the event to be held April 28-30, 2023. https://www.sonomavalley.com/event/sonoma-valley-authors-festival-2023/16709/
April 29, 2023: The 2023 Michigan Writing Workshop (Detroit, MI). At this writers’ conference, participants will enjoy a day of intense instruction on how to get their works published. https://michiganwritingworkshop.com/
April 29, 2023: Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference (Atlanta, GA). They offer the Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference annually for authors who are interested in self-publishing or who have self-published and want to get the most out of their publishing business. https://atlantawritersclub.org/aspc/
April 2023: Muse and the Marketplace (Boston, MA). It will include goal setting, small cohorts of writer friends and those working in your genre, and 70 sessions given by excellent guest authors on the craft of the novel, memoir, poetry, and more, plus sessions on navigating the publishing world led by premiere literary agents, editors, publicists, and more. https://museandthemarketplace.com/muse-2023/
May 4, 2023: 2023 OWFI Writers Conference (Oklahoma City, OK). Founded in 1968, the Oklahoma Writers’ Federation, Inc. (OWFI) is a non‑profit federation of writers’ groups dedicated to promoting higher standards for the written word. We believe that the literary profession has come of age and merits a fair share of the critical acclaim so generously lavished on other worthwhile arts. OWFI shall seek to coordinate and encourage professional writing within and without its organization and promote the recognition of outstanding contributions to the written language. https://www.owfi.org/
May 5-6, 2023: Lakefly Writers Conference, (Oshkosh, WI). EVERYONE HAS A STORY! Come to the Oshkosh Premier Waterfront Hotel and Convention Center for a two-day conference. They offer workshops on the craft and business of writing designed to inspire and guide your creative journey. https://lakeflywriters.org/
May 12-13, 2023. 10th Annual Washington Writers Conference, (Rockville, MD). You will be able to choose from a pool of roughly 20 literary agents. Once we have the full slate set, registrants will be sent a link where you can make your selections; agent bios will be available on www.wirobooks.com. https://wirobooks.regfox.com/2023-washington-writers-conference
May 13-16, 2023. Kachemak Bay Writers Conference (Homer, AK). The Kachemak Bay Writers’ Conference has been the place where writers from Alaska and beyond come together to create community and learn how to be better writers. https://writersconf.kpc.alaska.edu/
May 14-17, 2023: Technical Communication Summit (Atlanta, GA). The STC Summit makes technical communication come to life like no other event. Every year, technical communicators gather together to: Learn! Attend educational sessions on numerous topics with a variety of formats and experience levels. Hear from industry experts, well-known authors, and inspiring new voices to upgrade your skill sets and bring best practices back to your workplace. https://summit.stc.org/
May 18-21, 2023: Looking Glass Rock Writers Conference (Brevard, NC). Exploring the theme “A Sense of Place,” small select groups of conference attendees experience working under the guidance of notable writers. Founded in 2016 as a partnership between the Transylvania County Library and Brevard College, the annual conference consists of writing workshops for select participants and public readings by the workshop leaders free to the community. https://www.lgrwc.org/
May 24-30, 2023: TWH Maine Mini MFA All-Fiction Writers Conference (Boothbay Harbor, ME). 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 this year from May 24-30, 2023. TWH will be at the Spruce Point Inn Resort and Spa in Boothbay Harbor, Maine! https://www.writershotel.com/twh-maine-mini-mfa-all-fiction-conference-2023
May 25-27, 2022: 2023 Writing Heights Writers Conference (Fort Collins, CO). Effective January 1, 2023, NCW will be doing business as Writing Heights Writers Association. Since 2007, they have provided support and encouragement to writers of all levels and genres in Northern Colorado and beyond. Through monthly meetings, classes, networking & social events, the annual conference, the monthly newsletter and annual retreat, WHWA helps writers navigate their way to success. https://www.writingheights.com/page/conference
May 2023: ASJA Annual Conference (Virtual). With more than 900 members, ASJA stands as the country’s leading and most prestigious association of successful journalists, authors, and nonfiction and literary nonfiction writers, and we’ve never had a better time to talk about collaboration and networking. https://www.asja.org/events-overview/
May 5-6, 2023: Atlanta Writers Conference (Atlanta, GA) . The Atlanta Writers Conference offers one-on-one manuscript sample critiques, pitch sessions, and workshops. On Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6, 2023, the Atlanta Writers Club will present its 28th Atlanta Writers Conference, in-person at the Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel. We will now only offer a virtual option for critique and pitch meetings with the agents and editors, due to the ever-increasing expense of the audio-visual equipment and personnel involved and the ever-dwindling number of virtual participants. https://atlantawritersconference.com/
May 11-13, 2023: Storymakers Conference (Provo, UT) . The Storymakers Conference will consist of various classes that cover various topics such as cover design, marketing, creating a writing business, and the nuts and bolts of screenwriting. 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. https://storymakersguild.org/storymakers-conference/
June 09-11, 2023: Between the Pages Writers Conference (Springfield, MO). Springfield Writer’s Guild, Sleuths’ Ink, and Ozarks Romance Authors are pleased to present the second annual Between the Pages Writers Con, June 9-11, 2023. Join us for an exciting lineup of guest speakers, workshops, and the opportunity to network with industry professionals. https://btpwriterscon.com/
June 12-16, 2023: Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers Conference (Draper, UT). A #kidlit writing conference that “Turns more writers into authors than any other conference of its kind.” https://www.facebook.com/wifyr
June 14-17, 2023: Write-to-Publish Conference (Wheaton, IL). Since 1971, Write-to-Publish has been training, inspiring and encouraging writers like you, connecting them with editors to help them improve their craft, with publishers who are looking for good books to publish, and with literary agents who can represent them. https://writetopublish.com/
June 20-25, 2023: Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference (Bemidji, MN) . The Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference has given hundreds of participants from Minnesota and across the United States the opportunity to work closely with award-winning faculty. We offer a range of scholarships to support emerging writers, important voices, and community leaders. This writing conference is full of workshops, Q&A sessions, panel talks. https://www.northwoodswriters.org/
June 21-25, 2023: St. Davids Christian Writers’ Conference (Meadville, PA). St. Davids is special. They’re an intimate gathering of writers that provides an opportunity to build a network, not by exchanging business cards in a busy hallway. Here they connect, like real people – laughing over lunch, chatting about their projects in the lounge, or giving their elevator pitch in genre group meetings. Writing is a different beast with the digital world but connecting with people is still done face to face. http://stdavidswriters.com/
June 22-24, 2023: Jackson Hole Writers Conference (Jackson, WY). The annual Jackson Hole Writers Conference brings top agents, editors and authors together each June for a celebration of the craft of writing. https://jhwriters.org/
June 22-25, 2023: Computers and Writing Conference (Davis, CA). The conference itself will, in fact, be a hybrid experience, intentionally designed to bridge online and on-site experiences. In engaging with a hybridized experience, us, we’ll explore an expansive range of questions about the goals and purposes of hybridity. Who does hybridity benefit? And what do we strive to accomplish by engaging in explicitly hybrid ways both within and beyond the classroom? https://cwcon2023.ucdavis.edu/
June 28 – July 2, 2023: GCLS Annual Conference (Denver, CO). The GCLS’s annual conference is the premier literary event for both authors and readers. The event brings together readers, fans, writers, editors and publishers to celebrate women-loving-women and sapphic literature. https://www.goldencrownliterarysociety.org/2023-annual-conference
July 13-16, 2023: Readercon 32 Conference (Quincy, MA). Although Readercon is modeled on “science fiction conventions,” we have no art show, no costumes, no gaming, and almost no media. Instead, Readercon features a near-total focus on the written word. In many years the list of Readercon guests rivals or surpasses that of the Worldcon in quality. Readercon is the only small convention regularly attended by such giants of imaginative literature as Samuel R. Delany, Ellen Datlow, Amal El-Mohtar, John Crowley, Greer Gilman, and Catherynne M. Valente. https://readercon.org/
July 14-16, 2023: Imaginarium (Louisville, KY). Join bestselling fantasy authors, Michael Williams and Tim Waggoner, at Imaginarium 2022! More than 130 panels will be taking place during this three-day celebration of storytelling. This event is more than your typical conference. It’s also a film festival, gaming tournament, Comicon convention, and a book fair! Imaginarium prides itself on being family-friendly with something for everyone. Kids 12 and under can attend for free! https://www.entertheimaginarium.com/
July 16-22, 2023: Port Townsend Writers Conference (Port Townsend, WA) . The Port Townsend Writers Conference will feature guided free writes as well as readings and lectures by contemporary writers in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. In 2023, Centrum’s writing programs will offer participants vital support for the creation and revision of new and existing work from PTWC Artistic Curator Gary Copeland Lilley and award-winning faculty (listed alphabetically) Kim Addonizio, Quenton Baker, Elizabeth Colen, Alice Derry, Melissa Febos, CMarie Fuhrman, Tess Gallagher, Jennifer Givhan, Derrick Harriell, Arna Bontemps Hemenway, Brandon Hobson, Ravi Howard, Sasha LaPointe, Sam Ligon, Rena Priest, Sebastian Matthews, Laura Read, Anastacia Reneé, Shawn Vestal, and Kristen Millares Young. https://centrum.org/the-port-townsend-writers-conference/
July 19-22, 2023: Romance Writers of America Conference (Anaheim, CA). RWA works to support the efforts of its members to earn a living, to make a full-time career out of writing romance – or a part-time one that generously supplements their main income. https://www.rwa.org/conference
July 22-25, 2023: Sun Valley Writers’ Conference (Sun Valley, ID). The Sun Valley Writers’ Conference (SVWC) began with a conversation among four friends – journalist Reva B. Tooley, Sun Valley Community School leaders Jon and Leslie Maksik, and venture capitalist Gordon Russell, who sat around a kitchen table in 1994 and fantasized about starting a writers’ conference. One year later, SVWC held its first event in a tent at Sun Valley Community School, featuring 12 writers, 108 attendees, and an opening talk by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, David Halberstam. https://svwc.com/
July 23-29, 2023: Leopardi Writing Conference (Recanati, Italy). An immersive program for new and experienced authors, the Leopardi Writing Conference offers workshops and craft talks in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. As writing tends to be a solitary endeavor, the Leopardi Writing Conference will serve the inspiring purpose of community and place. We invite you to take advantage of this opportunity to receive expert feedback on your writing project, and get to know your fellow writers, including the distinguished members of our faculty. https://www.leopardiwc.org/
July 30 – August 4, 2023: Napa Valley Writers Conference (Napa, CA) . Since 1981, the Napa Valley Writers’ Conference has provided literary fellowship and a craft-focused experience among the foothills and vineyards that have made this region famous. http://www.napawritersconference.org/
August 2-6, 2023: Willamette Writers Conference (Portland, OR). Willamette Writers is the largest writers’ organization in the Pacific Northwest. Writers of all genres and at all stages of their careers come to our meetings, annual conference, and workshops to connect with their community, develop their craft, and advance their career. https://willamettewriters.org/
August 3-5, 2023: Mendocino Coast Writers Conference (Mendocino, CA). 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.” At this conference, writers can participate in morning workshops that are related to various genres. https://mcwc.org/
August 3-6, 2023. The 60th Cape Cod Writers Center Conference (Barnstable, MA). The Cape Cod Writers Center is committed to assisting published and aspiring writers of all genres, abilities and ages to develop their writing skills and learn the business of editing, publishing and promotion. https://capecodwriterscenter.org/conference-2/
August 4-6, 2023: Advanced Speakers & Writers Conference (AWSA). AWSA is a special fellowship of over 800 Christian women. We are professional authors, entertainers, publishers and speakers who encourage and train one another. https://awsa.com/
August 4-6, 2023: Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference (Culiver City, CA). Learn how to take your writing to the next level at the Annual Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference. AGLAWC 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 is a great opportunity to receive educational and inspirational guidance from a wealth of literary agents, veteran educators, industry professionals, professional editors, and publishers in the craft and business of writing fiction, nonfiction, plus screenwriting taught by Hollywood veterans. http://www.wcwriters.com/aglawc/
August 7–13, 2023: 28th Annual Postgraduate Writers’ Conference (Montpelier, VT). VCFA’s annual Postgraduate Writers’ Conference is a haven for serious, emerging practitioners seeking to connect, recharge, and lift their process and craft to new levels. https://vcfa.edu/postgraduate-writers-conference/
August 17-20, 2023: 2023 Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference (Franklin, TN). Killer Nashville is the premier forum for all genres incorporating mystery, thriller, or suspense elements; learn, present, meet agents & editors, sign books, mingle with forensic experts, and network. Writers who attend the Killer Nashville Writers Conference can expect writing workshops, pitch sessions, panel discussions, author signings, and a book fair. https://www.killernashville.com/
August 24-27, 2023: American Christian Fiction Writers Conference St. Louis (St. Louis, MO). If you’ve attended an ACFW conference before, you understand what the excitement’s about. Each year, hundreds of veteran authors and those just learning the craft of Christian fiction gather in a setting like this to hear skilled instructors, inspiring keynoters…to gain from the insights of industry professionals…to interact with other writers…and to present their ideas to agents and editors looking for stories like theirs, or to mentors who can help them move forward in their writing career. If you write Christian fiction—or want to learn how—the ACFW conference is an investment worth making. We hope you’ll join us on this exciting journey, taking a major step forward in your writing career. ACFW, the Voice of Christian Fiction. https://acfw.com/acfw-conference/
September 8-10, 2023: Colorado Gold Writers Conference (Denver, CO). They want to help you “lift up and lift off” your writing career at 2023’s Colorado Gold Writers Conference with a smashing line-up of keynotes, super-star agents (including for film adaptation), workshops for a variety of topics and genres, and networking galore. (Did someone say Bar-con?). https://rmfw.org/conference-2023/
October 12-14, 2023: Ozarks Creative Writers Conference (Eureka Springs, AR). This conference is for new, emerging, and accomplished writers focusing on the craft of writing, further developing skills, as well as stimulating and encouraging participants. OCW also focuses on opportunities for the participants to interact with editors, agents, and publishers. https://www.ozarkcreativewriters.com/
Select a writers’ conference of interest to you and be prepared to enjoy the benefits of meeting other writers. You may acquire knowledge you can use immediately, find a new market for your book, elevate your professional effectiveness, meet editors, agents and publishers, become inspired and return home energized.
The Bottom Line: Take a little working vacation and hit some writers’ conferences. Make it a priority to sign up for one in the coming weeks and months. You’ll be glad you did!
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About Book Publicist Scott Lorenz
Book publicist Scott Lorenz is President of Westwind Communications, a public relations and marketing firm that has a special knack for working with authors to help them get all the publicity they deserve and more. Lorenz works with bestselling authors and self-published authors promoting all types of books, whether it’s their first book or their 15th book. He’s handled publicity for books by CEOs, CIA Officers, Navy SEALS, Homemakers, Fitness Gurus, Doctors, Lawyers and Adventurers. His clients have been featured by Good Morning America, FOX & Friends, CNN, ABC News, New York Times, Nightline, TIME, PBS, LA Times, USA Today, Washington Post, Woman’s World, & Howard Stern to name a few.
Learn more about Westwind Communications’ book marketing approach at https://www.WestwindBookMarketing.com or contact Lorenz at [email protected] or 734-667-2090 or fill out the form below. Follow Lorenz on Twitter @aBookPublicist . Want help titling a book? Check out Scott Lorenz’s new award winning, bestselling book: Book Title Generator- A Proven System in Naming Your Book www.BookTitleGenerator.net .
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Writing conferences are great for new writers, and writers who don’t have much support or know what to do next, but they’re good for experienced writers too, to network or brush up on new trends or changes in the publishing world. Thanks for this great list!
Glad you liked the list. Sometimes it’s just good to get out and about and commiserate with fellow authors. Most authors share info, agents and help one another. I highly recommend that authors attend a writer’s confab.
This is a great list! If your favorite gets canceled, just go to their website and see if they put it on the next year, or month, etc. Sometimes there are online conferences too. You can meet a diverse group of writers, agents, publishers, and PR people at one of these.
Thank you for your kind words I’m glad you found it informative it’s a major project to keep up with all these not to mention the fact that it’s a moving target with COVID-19.
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San Francisco Writers Conference
Learn | Connect | Publish
The 19th annual San Francisco Writers Conference will take place on February 16-19, 2023 at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. The hotel is across from the Ferry Building and next to the Embarcadero BART station!
Plan to join us at our 19th Celebration and Learn… Connect …Publish!
REGISTER NOW FOR THE 2023 CONFERENCE
Price schedule
Highlights for 2023: 100+ Presenters (including more than 20 literary agents and acquiring editors !), 80+ sessions , lectures and classes over the FOUR day weekend, the SFWC Poetry Summit and the Writing for Hollywood Summit sessions (both summits are included in the registration for the Main SFWC conference and also available separately to the public), a free one-on-one consult with an editor, promotional pro, and book coach, and networking social events.
What to expect at the SFWC?
All attendees get a commemorative tote bag with writing goodies! The SFWC offers so much social and one-on-one networking time with other writers and industry professionals. After-hours hosted networking events, poetry happenings, No-pitch/No-host meet ups in the bar? You bet. Don’t want to eat dinner alone? There is a no-host dinner every night at a different San Francisco restaurant. Our attendees tell us this friendly yet professional atmosphere is what makes SFWC the conference they choose to attend.
The Hyatt Regency San Francisco is where the SFWC takes place. It is located a short stroll from the Ferry Building, directly in front of the Embarcadero BART station. It is especially convenient for those of you flying in to San Francisco airport as the SFO BART station is located inside the international terminal.
You can book your room directly with the hotel by calling 415-788-1234 or clicking this link to book your room. Use our discount code G-SFWC/ATTENDEE to get the $265 room rate…only good until January 27th, 2023, or whenever the rooms sell out. (We’re 85% sold out of these discounted rooms, so hurry!)
From start to finish, the San Francisco Writers Conference is designed to help you become a better, more professional writer and accelerate your career.
Top Ten Reasons for Writers to Attend the San Francisco Writers Conference:
- You appreciate sessions that fit your specific writing needs and goals. At SFWC you can choose from a full schedule of workshops and panels that cover fiction, nonfiction, children’s/YA, self-publishing, books-to-screen, poetry, marketing, business, tech and more.
- You want to launch your writing career— or take it to a more professional level. As in any business, it’s “who you know.” Meet industry leaders and learn how to play the publishing game. The information at SFWC covers the latest trends and technology to help you get more writing done … and successfully sell what you write.
- You want an agent! P itch your book ideas in 8-minutes, one-on-one to the literary agents of your choice ($50 option for registered attendees only). The literary agents at SFWC are on the lookout for new clients with great books they can represent. They sign up new clients from SFWC all the time!
- You are ready to learn about a wide range of publishing options from leaders in self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and traditional publishing.
- You are open to hearing FREE editorial feedback on your work from freelance book editor and want to have a consult with a book coach and a marketing expert .
- You are building your personal writing community. At SFWC meet like-minded writers from all over the United States and other countries too.
- You seek innovative writer-related services . Meet with the exhibitors and see demos at the conference to find out what’s new for writers.
- You love books. Come browse our onsite bookstore and get the books you purchase autographed by the presenters.
- You have heard about SFWC’s over-the-top networking opportunities. SFWC attendees can jump into pitch practices, share their work at craft workshops, and socialize at our Pub Quiz , Dessert Keynote, Gala Party and Poetry and Jazz events. This is just a small sampling of what goes on during the event.
- You want to go to a conference that offers it all . You’ve just described the San Francisco Writers Conference — top quality information and excellent speakers, yet is extremely friendly to writers at all levels.
The MAIN CONFERENCE registration fee includes four days of live sessions, keynotes, and events from Thursday through Sunday. Plus, a consult with an editor, book coach, and publicist, unlimited networking with more than 100 presenters (and fellow writers!), a Networking Gala, the Poetry and Jazz party, morning continental breakfasts, a Meet the Agents and Editors panel, Saturday awards & keynote luncheon, the popular Practice Your Pitch event, an attendee bag filled with writer goodies, and so much more!
Concierge Consults with Kevin Smokler, Diane Frank, Nina Amir, and Andy Jones are available if you want to make the most of the SFWC…or just want to talk with them about writing and publishing. Attendees will get info on how to get a consult. The fee is funds SFWC scholarships.
Master Classes: We take advantage of the fact that a boatload of talented writing and publishing teachers are here for the conference and tap some of them to host 3-hour master classes in various facets of the craft. And it’s great that anyone can sign up for these intensives. It’s open to everyone, not just registered attendees. Take a class with your friends. It’s a great way to start your writing year off with a bang.
You can revisit past conferences. Buy the CDs or MP3s! Click on www.vwtapes.com, or call Patrick at 1-808-561-8273.
Email an order or questions: [email protected].
The San Francisco Writers Conference (“SFWC”) enjoys a rich literary culture. Over the course of four days, over 500 attendees and renowned keynote authors, presenters, editors, and agents, attend SFWC, combining the best of both the traditional publishing industry with the latest technology to empower authors to publish anywhere. Situated just north of Silicon Valley, the SFWC is truly a one-of-a-kind celebration of craft, commerce, and community.
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