In July, writing conferences are in full swing. This month there are nearly three dozen writing conferences that span the country from one coast to the other. There are conferences that focus on the craft of writing, pitch conferences with agents and editors, and retreats for those who just need to get away. 

Conferences that include intimate coaching sessions tend to fill up quickly. I have included these, even if they are full, so you can plan ahead for next year. Planning ahead also gives you an opportunity to apply for the scholarships offered by some of these conferences. You can find a comprehensive list of conferences throughout the year here: Writing Conferences.
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Fine Arts Work Center Summer Workshops (poetry, fiction, art, and creative nonfiction). June 17 - August 24, 2018, Provincetown, Massachusetts. The faculty includes Marisa Silver, Ariel Levy, Julia Glass, Henri Cole, Marie Howe, Marie Ponsot, Vijay Seshadri, Dean Albarelli, Kimiko Hahn, David Updikel, Pam Houston, Julia Glass, Alice Mattison. Tuition ranges from $600 to $725.

Idyllwild Arts Summer Program Writers Week. July 2 - 6, 2018, Idyllwild, California. Workshops, craft talks, readings, and one-on-one consultations in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. "For decades Idyllwild Arts has been a gathering place for some of the world's finest poets and writers - among them Ray Bradbury, Norman Corwin, Lucille Clifton, Sharon Olds, Maxine Kumin, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Philip Levine, Luis J. Rodriguez, David St. John and Natasha Trethewey. That fine tradition continues with our second annual Writers Week, a gathering of talented writers from Idyllwild Arts and beyond."

New York State Summer Writers Institute at Skidmore College. July 2 - 27, 2018: Saratoga Springs, NY. Workshops on Mon, Wed, Fri. Q & As with visiting writers on Tues and Thurs. Readings & presentations by visiting and staff writers. Symposia and student readings on weekends. Extra Manuscript Tutorials in fiction novels, and book-length non-fiction and poetry. Faculty: Danzy Senna, Amy Hempel, Adam Haslett, Joanna Scott, Claire Messud, Phillip Lopate, Campbell McGrath, Vijay Seshadri, Carol Muske-Dukes, Rosanna Warren, Victoria Redel, Garth Greenwell, Rick Moody, Jonathan Dee, Peg Boyers, Henri Cole and others.

IWWG Summer Writers Conference. July 6 - 13, 2018: Allentown, PA. The International Women's Writing Guild sponsors this residential writing program for women. Features: Over two dozen workshops ranging from three to six days in length and spanning fiction, poetry, memoir, creative nonfiction, screenwriting, playwriting, writing as performance, social justice, multi-genre, and mixed media; Critique sessions in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and playwriting; A multimedia open studio and Two book fairs.

The Summer Writers Institute. July 6 - 20, 2018, St. Louis, Missouri. The Washington University Summer Writers Institute is an intensive, two-week program featuring workshops in fiction, micro fiction, modern humor, personal narrative, playwriting, and poetry, as well as reading and individual conferences with instructors. Adult writers of all levels of experience work together with published authors and exceptional teachers in a supportive, non-competitive format that allows for personalized attention and constructive feedback.

Frost Place Conference on Poetry. July 8 - 14, 2018: Franconia, NH. Spend a week at “intensive poetry camp” with writers who are deeply committed to learning more about the craft of writing poetry. The Frost Place Poetry Conference offers daily workshops, classes, lectures, writing and revising time in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Tin House Summer Workshop. July  8 - 15, 2018, Portland, Oregon. Workshops with afternoon craft seminars and career panels. Evenings are reserved for author readings and revelry. Tin House editors and guest agents are available to meet individually with students throughout the week. Participating writers include poets Matthew Dickman, Dorianne Laux, Ada Limón, Shane McCrae, and Tommy Pico; fiction writers Dorothy Allison, Lesley Nneka Arimah, Robert Boswell, Alexander Chee, Lauren Groff, Randa Jarrar, Tayari Jones, Antonya Nelson, Chinelo Okparanta, Benjamin Percy, Wells Tower, and Lidia Yuknavitch; and creative nonfiction writers Melissa Febos, Lacy M. Johnson, and Kiese Laymon. Tuition is $1,200; the fee for lodging and meals is $600. Scholarships are available. Workshops may be audited for $300. The deadline for scholarship applications is March 18. Cost: $1200. Application deadline: April 29, 2018.

Young Writers Workshop. July 8 - 28, 2018, Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Restrictions: For students completing grades 9, 10, 11. Three 90-minute workshop sessions daily, including imaginative writing activities and discussion of readings. Weekly individual meetings with workshop instructor. Focus is on using various forms of creative writing to develop language and thinking skills.

Stonecoast Writers’ Conference. July 9 - 14, 2018, Portland, ME. Workshops in poetry, short fiction, novel, and nonfiction/memoir, and a mixed-genre Creative Writing Bootcamp. The Stonecoast Writers’ Conference is open to students of all experience levels. However, admission is selective. Writing sample and deposit required.

Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers. July 9 - 15, 2018: Wallowa Lake, Oregon. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as panel discussions, readings, and open mics. "Held each July at Wallowa Lake in northeast Oregon, Summer Fishtrap gathers writers for a week of inspired writing workshops and culminates with a weekend of passionate discussion on a key issue facing the West."

ThrillerFest XIII. July 10–14, 2018, New York City. This is the annual conference of the International Thriller Writers. The ThrillerFest conference has four main components: Master CraftFest, CraftFest, PitchFest, and ThrillerFest. Master CraftFest was designed as an educational tool for aspiring writers as well as debut and midlist authors to gain advanced training from the masters of the craft in an intimate, day-long training session. CraftFest was designed for all writers to learn from bestselling authors and subject experts who kindly offer their advice and assistance to advance attendees’ writing techniques and further their careers. PitchFest was designed to match writers with agents, editors, publishers, and producers. ThrillerFest, the final two days of the conference, is intended to offer readers a chance to meet the best authors in the industry and be introduced to debut and midlist authors. Expect innovative panels, spotlight interviews, and workshops to educate and inspire.

Martha’s Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing Summer Seminar. June 10 - 16 and 17 - 23, 2018, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Workshops in poetry and fiction, one-on-one manuscript consultations, panel discussions, and readings. Offers fellowships. Deadline April 21, 2018.

Southampton Writers Conference. July 11–22, 2018, Long Island, NY. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and publishing, as well as readings, lectures, and a master class series. Creative writing workshops are the heart and soul of the summer experience, meeting four afternoons or mornings throughout the session. Enrollment is limited to 13 lucky writers who have applied with writing samples. Those accepted have the privilege of sharing their work in an intimate, rigorous and friendly setting.

Green River Writers Workshops:Turning Memory into Story: Memoir Writing Workshop. July 12 - 15, 2018, Las Vegas, New Mexico. Using memory as a starting point, Green River Writers Workshops focus on the craft of storytelling through memoir, fiction, historical writing, and poetry. Both experienced and beginning writers are welcome.

The Gathering. July 13 - 15, 2018, La Plume, Pennsylvania. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as lectures and performances. "Each year The Gathering is structured around a theme that relates everyday experiences to broader issues. The purpose of The Gathering is to promote understanding and empathy to bridge cultural, social, and economic gaps. Lecturers include authors, poets, scientists, philosophers, musicians, performers, and artists who help shape contemporary thought in their field. A reading list gets us thinking ahead of time about the issues we’ll be immersed in at The Gathering. Our presenters have included Salman Rushdie, Gregory Maguire, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Diane Ackerman, Chris Abani, Susan Jacoby, Katherine Paterson, Peter Bohlin, Nancy Willard, Victor Navasky, Sandy Tolan, and many others. Their availability for conversation during meals and breaks and at social gatherings offers important opportunities for participants to gain new insights into the speakers’ work."

Peripatetic Writing Workshop and Retreat. July 13 - 18, 2018: Deal, Kent, England. The first week of the conference features daily workshops, discussions, readings, and time to write. The second week of the conference features writing time, discussions, readings, and individual manuscript tutorials. The workshop will be led by NYU teachers and authors Maureen Brady and Martha Hughes.

The Cleveland Writing Workshop. July 14, 2018, Cleveland, OH. A full-day “How to Get Published” writers conference. "One day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."

Antioch Writers' Workshop. July 14 - 20, 2018, Yellow Springs, Ohio. Featuring Keynoter  and Sunday Morning Craft Class Instructor, Connie Schultz.  Connie Schultz is a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and professional in residence at Kent State University's school of journalism. Morning classes and afternoon seminars in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry for all levels of writers--beginning to advanced. The workshop includes opportunities to give readings, receive professional critiques, interact with faculty, and meet with a visiting agent.

Port Townsend Writers’ Conference. July 15 - 22, 2018, Port Townsend, Washington. workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft lectures, readings, open mics, and time to write. "The Port Townsend Writers’ Conference has been since 1974 at the wild heart of the thriving Pacific Northwest literary scene. With a focus on community and rigorous attention to craft, the Conference offers morning workshops, afternoon workshops, residencies, guided freewrites, and a vibrant readings and lectures series presented by vital, contemporary writers."

Green Mountain Writers Conference. July 16 - 20, 2018, Chittenden, Vermont. The program features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as one-on-one consultations, lectures, publishing discussions, and readings. The faculty includes poets Justen Ahren, Chard deNiord, Gary Margolis, Verandah Porche, and Kate Rushin; fiction writers T. Greenwood, Elizabeth Inness-Brown, and Stephen Kiernan; and creative nonfiction writers Chuck Clarino and Yvonne Daley. Tuition is $650 before June 1 and $675 thereafter.

Sewanee Writers’ Conference. July 17- 29, 2018: Sewanee, TN. Faculty will give readings and provide instruction and criticism through workshops and craft lectures, as well as meet individually with participants to discuss their manuscripts. The Conference will offer five fiction workshops, four poetry workshops, and a playwriting workshop supported by two professional actors. In addition, a substantial number of literary agents will attend.

Romance Writers of America. July 18 - 21, 2018, Denver, CO. The RWA Conference is the place where career-focused romance writers meet, mingle, and get down to the business of being an author. Conference highlights include the “Readers for Life” Literacy Autographing; the Keynote speech; hearing from great speakers; book signings; and the Awards Ceremony. At the conference, career-focused romance writers can anticipate: education and information, networking with fellow writers, interaction with editors, agents, publishers, booksellers, and other romance publishing industry professionals.

Writing the Rockies. July 18 - 22, 2018: Gunnison, Colorado. Workshops, readings, panels, seminars and other events in poetry, genre fiction, screenwriting and publishing. One-to-one visits with faculty for critiques & pitches. Sponsored by Graduate Program in Creative Writing, Western State Colorado University.

Saskatchewan Festival of Words. July 19 - 27, 2018, Moose Jaw, Canada. Workshops for all ages, reading sessions, concerts, film, panel discussions, interviews, music, theatre, a slam poetry competition as well as workshops and author readings.

North Carolina Writers' Network Squire Summer Writing Residency. July 19 - 27, 2017: Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as a presentation and readings. The faculty includes Paul Cuadros, Rob Greene, and Elaine Neil Orr. The cost of the residency ranges from $425 - $675, depending on membership and housing preferences.

Cascade Writers Critique and Pitches. July 20 –22, 2018: Tacoma, WA. Milford-Style critiques, agent pitches and query information, panels on writing, editing, self-publishing, and more. "Join us for our three-day event this July with editors and/or publishers John Joseph Adams, author Christie Yant, agent DongWon Song, author Spencer Ellsworth, author Randy Henderson, author John J.A.Pitts, author David D. Levine, author Rachael K. Jones, and author Liz Coleman. More to come!"

Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference. July 20 - 22, 2018, Grapevine, Texas. The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference is a forum for journalists, writers, readers, students, educators and the general public to listen to, be inspired by and practice their craft at the highest possible level. Every year, the Mayborn Conference gathers some of the most talented storytellers in the country to share their stories, life-changing experiences and expertise with aspiring writers through three days of lectures, panels, one-on-one sessions, and student classes. In addition, the conference includes a variety of writing contests for anyone from high school students to Pulitzer prize winning professionals, who receive hand-made trophies, more than $26,000 in cash awards and have their work published in Mayborn's journal, Ten Spurs, or anthology, Best American Newspaper Narratives.

Gemini Ink Writers Conference. July 20 - 22, 2018: San Antonio, Texas. In this moment of social and historic flux, Gemini Ink’s Writers Conference will contemplate the role writing can play in reflecting and driving social, aesthetic and personal change. Participate in panels, roundtables, workshops, and readings. Engage in dynamic conversations on writing as an agent for change.

Juniper Institute for Young Writers. July 22 - 29, 2018:  Amherst, MA. For high school students. Daily workshops in poetry, fiction, & nonfiction; interactive craft sessions that include discussions & writing exercises; evening readings by faculty & writers-in-residence. The faculty includes poets Dorothea Lasky, Rickey Laurentiis, Camille Rankine, Bianca Stone, and Dara Wier; fiction writers Noy Holland, Mitchell S. Jackson, and Joy Williams; and creative nonfiction writer Eileen Myles. Visiting writers include poets Terrance Hayes, Lisa Olstein, Evie Shockley, Safiya Sinclair, and Matthew Zapruder; fiction writers Stephen Graham Jones, Margaret Wilkerson Sexton, and Leni Zumas; and creative nonfiction writer Paul Lisicky. Tuition, which includes some meals, is $1,600. Manuscript consultations are available for an additional $150. Several lodging options are offered, from $48 per night for a dorm room to $140 per night for a private room at a nearby campus hotel. Scholarships and grants are available. Scholarships available.

Mountain Maryland Writers' Institute. July 26 - 29, 2018: McHenry, MD. MMWI is a 3-day camp for adult writers of all abilities. Morning and afternoon writing sessions focusing on research, topic selection, poetry, destination travel guide. Guided by local and regional authors in a combination of indoor and outdoor venues. Faculty: Dr. Neal Brooks, Jess Daddeio, Jack DuBose, Rose Gordy, James Rada, Jr., and Ellouise Schoettler.

Midwest Writers Workshop. July 27 - 28, 2018, Muncie, Indiana. Craft and business sessions, agent pitches, manuscript evaluations. MWW includes quality instruction by a faculty of authors, agents, editors, and specialists.

Bookstock Literary Festival. July 27 - July 29, 2018: Woodstock, Vermont. From Poets & Writers: "The festival features workshops, readings, discussions, and a book fair for poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. Participating writers have included poets Benjamin Aleshire, Laura Foley, Pamela Harrison, April Ossmann, and Elizabeth Powell; fiction writers Jean Hanff Korenlitz and Roland Merullo; and nonfiction writers Jabari Asim, Bruce Coffin, and Sarah Prager. All events and workshops are free and open to the public."

Napa Valley Writers’ Conference. July 29 - August 3, 2018, St. Helena, California. Workshops in poetry and fiction, craft lectures, panels, and evening readings with wine receptions at venues around Napa Valley. Conference will feature poets Camille Dungy, Brenda Hillman, Jane Mead, and Carl Phillips, and fiction writers Lan Samantha Chang, Lauren Groff, Mat Johnson, and Howard Norman.

Pennsylvania Writers Conference. July 29 - August 4, 2018: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. PWC includes workshops in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and screenwriting. The conference will offer pitch sessions with agents, as well as certificate programs in publishing and arts advocacy and education.

VQR Conference. July 30 - August 4, 2018: Charlottesville, VA. This conference focuses on writing. Conference participants pay $1,100, which includes lodging and meals. For participants who do not need housing, the cost is $950. Deadline: Once admitted to the conference, a nonrefundable deposit of $200 is due by June 15.

June is bustin' out all over for writers. There are no fewer than 60 writing conferences this month, stretching from coast to coast, and covering every aspect of writing and publishing. Want to pitch your work to an agent? There are six conferences in New York, California and points in between that will be attended by agents eager to hear your pitch. Workshops, manuscript consultations, readings, book signings, panel discussions, and contests abound. There is something for everyone.

I've included a few conferences that are already sold out, so you can plan ahead for next year. I highly recommend you look at the Writing Conferences page on this blog for a month-by-month list of conferences throughout the year. Many conferences offer scholarships if you apply early enough. And most of the small hands-on workshops tend to have deadlines a month or more in advance.

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Clarksville Writers Conference. June 1 - 2, 2018: Clarksville, TN. Two days of writing workshops and presentations, a keynote banquet with the authors, and manuscript consultations.

River Teeth Nonfiction Conference. June 1 - 3, 2018: Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio. Individual manuscript consultations, seminars, readings, open mics, and book signings. Faculty: Andre Dubus III, Angela Morales, Jill Christman, Michael Downs, Steven Harvey, Richard Hoffman, Kate Hopper, Sonya Huber, Thomas Larson, Dan Lehman, Joe Mackall, Robert Root, Ana Maria Spagna, Michael Steinberg.


Surprise Valley Writers’ Conference. June 1 - 5, 2018: Cedarville, California. Features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft lectures, readings, open mics, and a Book Arts workshop.

Bread Loaf Translators' Conference. June 1 - 7, 2018: Ripton, VT. The Bread Loaf Translators’ Conference includes workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as lectures, craft classes, meetings with editors and agents, and readings by faculty and guests. Application deadline: March 15, 2018.

Indiana University Writers’ Conference. June 2 - 6, 2018, Indiana University in Bloomington. The conference features workshops in poetry and fiction, as well as craft classes, readings, and panels for poets, fiction writers, and nonfiction writers. The cost of the conference is $385, or $635 with a workshop. Lodging and meals are not included; lodging is available in campus dormitories and in the campus hotel. The registration fee is $30; general registration is first come, first served. To attend a workshop, submit 8 to 10 pages of poetry or 15 to 25 pages of prose; admissions are made on a rolling basis.

Yale Writers' Conference. June 2 - 12, 2018: New Haven, CT. Visiting Faculty: Amy Bloom, Michael Cunningham, Lev Grossman, Claudia Rankine, Edmund White, MG Lord, Sarah Darer Littman Resident Faculty: Kirsten Bakis, Je Banach, Sybil Baker, Marc Fitten, Trey Ellis, and more. Director: Terence Hawkins. Application deadline: March 15, 2018.

Odyssey Writing Workshop. June 4 - July 13, 2018: Manchester, NH. Since its inception in 1996, Odyssey has become one of the most highly respected workshops for writers of fantasy, science fiction, and horror. Top authors, editors and agents serve as guests, and 59% of graduates go on to professional publication. Application deadline: April 7, 2018.

West Chester University Poetry Conference. June 6 - 9, 2018: West Chester, PA. The conference offers poetry workshops and features a keynote speaker, critical seminars, panel discussions, faculty readings, and an opportunity for participants to have conferences with workshop leaders and resident poets.

Writers @Work Conference. June 6 - 10, 2018: Alta, Utah. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft lectures, panel discussions, hikes, and time to write. Choose one of three intensive workshops, conducted by our award-winning faculty, and held at Alta Lodge, an intimate setting in the breath-taking Wasatch Mountains, where writers of all backgrounds gather to share ideas, craft, and fine writing. The cost of the conference is $730, which includes tuition and all meals. Individual consultations with an agent or editor are available for an additional $50. Lodging is available at the Alta Lodge, and ranges from a total of $115 for a shared dorm to $285 for a private room.

The Algonkian Writer Retreat and Novel Workshop, June 6 - 10, 2018: Algonkian Park, Virginia. "You can show us your manuscript, improve your skills, clear your head, have your work read by our writer mentors, whatever works for you, whatever helps you grow and discover your vision as a writer. You discuss with us ahead of time via the Algonkian Writer Retreat Application the goals you wish to accomplish, and we'll work with you to make it happen. Do you desire a review? A line edit? Do you wish to discuss the reality of the current fiction market, your novel project, plot and characters, or perhaps get feedback on the opening hook or a few sample chapters? Or would you simply like a relaxed and productive dialogue about your goals as a writer?"

The Writer's Hotel. June 6 - 12, 2018, NYC. To apply, send the first 5000 words of a prose manuscript or the first 15 poems of a poetry manuscript. We work with writers of fiction, poetry and nonfiction. We do not work on scripts. International applications are welcome. It is $30 to apply. The fee for the 2018 conference is $3,000 and includes the pre-conference TWH Team Reading and NYC in-town events. Early acceptance not only reserves a writer's spot at an intimate conference, it means writers will have ample time to revise before the NYC pitch meetings. Deadline for application: March 9, 2018.

Connecting Writers with Hollywood. June 7 - 9, 2018: Spokane, WA. CWWH is a writers conference where writers and screenwriters can pitch their material directly to film agents and producers. It is a weekend of education, panels and pitch sessions.

Annual Philadelphia Writers' Conference. June 8 - 10, 2018: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Features workshops, contests and awards, critique and feedback sessions, and agent and editor speed dates. Autobiography/Memoir, Fiction, Horror, Journalism, Marketing, Non-fiction, Playwriting, Poetry, Publishing, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Screenwriting, Young Adult.

West Virginia Writers Conference. June 8 - 10, 2018: Ripley, West Virginia. Author readings, contests and sharing your love of writing with others.

Women Writing to Change the World: Omega Institute. June 8 - 10, 2018: Rhinebeck, NY. "As women many of us have a story we want to share, write about, or tell—but how do we begin? We begin with a word. A sentence. A first line. But those first words can be daunting, especially when you realize that words have power and you can change lives with your writing. Guided by author Amy Ferris and therapists Sherry Amatenstein and Blair Glaser, you spend a weekend meditating, connecting, rabble rousing, and writing. Through small group work, sharing, and creative writing prompts, you transform your fear and shame into power on the page. You create essays, poems, petitions, manifestos—whatever you are moved to create—about topics that catalyze you and leave you forever changed, forever united" Cost: $360.

Colrain Poetry Manuscript Conference. June 8 - 11, 2018: Truchas, New Mexico. The conference features evaluation and discussion of book-length and chapbook-length manuscripts with poets, editors, and publishers. The cost of the conference is $1,475, which includes lodging and meals. Using the online submission system, submit a brief bio and three to four poems.

Kachemak Bay Writers' Conference. June 8 - 12, 2018: Homer, Alaska. Daily workshops, panel presentations, readings and craft talks. Keynote speaker: Anthony Doerr (!) Costs: $375 ($325 early bird by 5/2). Includes luncheons, opening dinner; manuscript review $65. Post-conference workshop $400.

Spring Writing Intensive. June 9, 2018, Annapolis MD. "In this one-day writing intensive, participants will have the opportunity to join other writers for a day devoted to writing instruction, discovery, and inspiration. Working under the guidance of award-winning authors, attendees may select four workshops from seven choices. By choosing from a menu of craft options that will include memoir, fiction, nonfiction, and publishing advice, participants will select the subjects that address their most challenging writing issues and will leave armed with new skills, understanding, and motivation. All levels are welcome." Tuition: $175.

Get Published Conference. June 9, 2018: Bozeman, Montana. This conference is devoted to book writing, marketing and getting published. Faculty includes experienced writers who share their methods for planning, writing and finishing their books, along with practical marketing and promotional information.

DFW Writers Conference. June 9 - 10, 2018, Fort Worth TX. Featuring pitch sessions with literary agents, advanced classes, engaging panels, interactive workshops.

Bread Loaf Orion Environmental Writers' Conference. June 10 - 15, 2018: Ripton, VT. The Bread Loaf Orion Environmental Writers' Conference is a week-long writers’ conference designed to hone the skills of people interested in producing literary writing about the environment and the natural world. The conference is co-sponsored by the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference, Orion magazine, and Middlebury College’s Environmental Studies Program. Application deadline: April 20, 2018.

Tinker Mountain Writers’ Workshop. June 10 - 15, 2018: Roanoke, Virginia. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft seminars, individual conferences with faculty members, and readings. The faculty includes poets Rebecca Lindenberg and Jon Pineda; fiction writers Pinckney Benedict, Fred Leebron, and Karon Luddy; multi-genre writers James McKean and Daniel Mueller; agent Jeff Kleinman (Folio Literary Management); and editor Barbara Jones (Henry Holt & Company). The cost of tuition is $795. Housing is available on campus for $225 for the week or in nearby hotels beginning at $65 per night. A campus meal plan is available for $200.

Naropa Summer Writing Program. June 10 - June 30, 2018: Boulder, CO. This is the 44th Summer Writing Program of the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics at Naropa University. "These are urgent days, and a new world is possible––and this world is yet worth struggling for. To face facts with creative and spirited resolve; to see through webs of ignorance and power; to witness and study, and bring a new enlivening energy to being writer and citizen; to work collaboratively; to break open categories of resistance, and creation; to write, and think rhizomatically; to keep your weather eye open, and sing out every time–––these are just some of the modes and tactics we imagine The New Weathers will require. As our beloved friend and co-founder of the Kerouac School, Allen Ginsberg says: “Well, while I’m here I’ll / do the work–– / and what’s the Work? / To ease the pain of living. Everything else, drunken / dumbshow.”

Kenyon Review Writers Workshops. June 10 - July 14, 2018: Gambier, Ohio. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction led by an accomplished faculty. Genre workshops (Fiction, Literary Nonfiction, and Poetry) are held for three hours each morning. (See individual workshops for dates.)

Interlochen Writer’s Retreat. June 11 - 14, 2018: Interlochen, Michigan. The retreat features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft talks, readings, time to write, one-on-one manuscript consultations, and a dinner. The retreat also offers a practicum that includes additional consultations, lectures, and panel discussions on publishing. The faculty includes poet and fiction writer Brittany Cavallaro, fiction writers Desiree Cooper and Eric Charles May, fiction and nonfiction writer Patricia Ann McNair, nonfiction writer Mardi Jo Link, and poet and nonfiction writer Anne-Marie Oomen. The cost of the conference is $520. Lodging and meals are not included; lodging on campus is available for discounted rates. Registration is first come, first served.

Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers. June 11 - 15, 2018: Sandy, Utah. Offers one-, two-, three- and five-day workshops. Morning workshops devoted to individual work; afternoon talks on market, craft, publication; chats w/ editors and agents; keynote; book signing. For those interested, specialized workshops--Boot Camp and Full-Novel classes. Single day programs as well.

Wesleyan Writers Conference. June 13 - 17, 2018: Middletown, CT. The conference offers workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as master classes, craft sessions, panel discussions, readings, lectures, and manuscript consultations with agents and editors. The program includes a choice of daily seminars focused on the novel, short story, poetry, and nonfiction (memoir, short- and long-form nonfiction, and journalism). The faculty includes poet Honor Moore; fiction writers Nicholson Baker, Amy Bloom, Salvatore Scibona, and Tiphanie Yanique; and nonfiction writers William Finnegan and Lis Harris. Tuition is $850. Lodging is available on-campus for $50 per night or $200 for four nights or off-campus at nearby hotels and inns. A meal plan is available for $275. A one-day program is also available on June 16 for $225, which includes lunch and dinner. To register for a manuscript consultation, submit 10 poems or up to 35 pages of prose by May 23.

Algonkian Writer Conference–New York City Pitch. June 14 - 17, 2018: Ripley-Grier Studios in New York City. The conference offers workshops on writing and selling fiction and creative nonfiction manuscripts, as well as agent pitch sessions. The faculty includes Ibrahim Ahmad, Corinna Barsan, Kat Brzozowski, Jackie Cantor, Tom Colgan, Bess Cozby, Brendan Deneen, Mark Gottlieb, Michaela Hamilton, Thomas Hoeler, Lauren Jablonski, Peter Joseph and more. The registration fee until June 10, 2018 is $795.00, and $895.00 after that date. This fee covers all conference pitch sessions and workshops.

Pacific University Master of Fine Arts in Writing Residency Writers Conference. June 14 - 24, 2018: Forest Grove, Oregon. Writers seeking to deepen their craft and expand their professional community are invited to attend the Residency Writers Conference together with MFA students, faculty and guest speakers. Join us for 10 full days of craft talks, workshops, panels, classes, readings and more featuring some of the best minds of the literary world. This residency is a rare opportunity to engage in sustained and meaningful conversation with others who share your passion for the art of writing.

The Alabama Writers' Conclave. June 15-17, 2018, Orange Beach, Alabama. The Conclave is today one of the oldest continuing writers' organization in the United States. Writers, aspiring writers and supporters of the writing arts may join. Sharing information, developing ideas, honing skills, and receiving practical advice are hallmarks of the annual meeting.

Gateway to Publishing Conference and Convention. June 15 - 17, 2018: St. Louis, Missouri. Faculty: Jennifer Geist, Stephanie Hansen, Eileen Dryer, Angie Fox, Cynthia Graham, Ann Leckie, and still adding literary agents, publishers, and authors. Cost: Writer’s Conference: SLWG Member $210; Students/Affiliated Organizations $230; Regular Registration $250; Gateway Con Masterclass $50 per class; Author Hall Rates: SLWG Members $125; Affiliated Organizations $145; Regular Registration $175.

Sundress Academy for the Arts Summer Fiction Writing Retreat. June 15 - 17, 2018: Knoxville, Tennessee. The three-day, two-night camping retreat will be held at SAFTA's own Firefly Farms in Knoxville, Tennessee. This year's retreat will focus on generative fiction writing and include two break-out sessions "Conflict and POV as Perspective" and "Writing the Travel Narrative," plus discussions on kicking writer's block, publishing, and more.  

Poetry at the Frost Farm. June 15 - 17, 2018:  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."

Mountain Heritage Literary Festival. June 15 - 17, 2018, Cumberland Gap, TN. "Every year writers gather at the ancient and beloved Cumberland Gap to celebrate writing, music, and Appalachian heritage. Events include workshops, panels, readings, concerts, lectures, open mic, and more."

Iowa Summer Writing Festival. June 16 -  July 27, 2018, Iowa City. Featuring 138 workshops with 60 instructors. Registrations for weeklong and weekend workshops are accepted on a first-come first-served basis. Class size is limited to twelve. It is a good idea to register early.

The Santa Barbara Writers Conference, June 17 – 22, 2018: Santa Barbara, Calif. "Every summer, writers in many genres from around the world gather to participate in a magical week of intensive work focused on story, voice, craft, marketing, and networking with fellow writers and publishing professionals."

Aspen Summer Words. June 17 - 22, 2018: Aspen, Colorado. Workshops, panels, and readings in fiction and creative nonfiction, as well as opportunities to meet with agents and editors. "Aspen Summer Words is the Rocky Mountain gateway to the literary world. Recognized as one of the country’s pre-eminent literary conferences, Summer Words welcomes visitors and locals alike to celebrate writing and writers in Aspen for a week each June. The exceptional faculty and awe-inspiring mountain scenery combine to make this a writing retreat like no other."

Colgate Writers’ Conference. June 17 - 23, 2018: Hamilton, New York. Morning craft talks & workshops. Individual consultation with workshop instructor in the afternoon. Late afternoon participant readings and talks on publishing, storytelling. Evening readings by instructors & guests. Late night social events. "Bring a story, a book in progress, some poems, or a novel, and work with us on developing narrative strategies, verse techniques, and methods of research. Members of the publishing profession will also be here to discuss marketplace tactics." Application Deadline: April 20, 2018.

Clarion West Speculative Fiction Writers Workshop. June 17 - July 27, 2018: Seattle, Washington. Every summer, Clarion West holds an intensive six-week workshop in Seattle’s University District, geared to help you prepare for a professional career as a writer of speculative fiction. Each workshop is limited to 18 students, and each week features a different instructor, a highly regarded author or editor offering their unique perspective on the field. Short fiction is the workshop’s focus, with an emphasis on science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Come prepared to write several new stories, to experiment and take artistic risks, and to give and receive constructive criticism. FULL

Fine Arts Work Center Summer Workshops (poetry, fiction, art, and creative nonfiction). June 17 - August 24, 2018, Provincetown, Massachusetts. The faculty includes Marisa Silver, Ariel Levy, Julia Glass, Henri Cole, Marie Howe, Marie Ponsot, Vijay Seshadri, Dean Albarelli, Kimiko Hahn, David Updikel, Pam Houston, Julia Glass, Alice Mattison. Tuition ranges from $600 to $725.

Manhattanville College Summer Writers' Week. June 18 - 22, 2018: Purchase, New York. Each day begins with a workshop, then afternoons feature craft panels and events. Evenings feature faculty readings and a keynote reader, and these evening readings are free and open to the public. For an immersive experience, housing is available on campus for workshop participants.

Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference. June 18 - 24, 2018: Bemidji, Minnesota. Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, Publishing. Faculty: Edward Hirsch - Distinguished Visiting Writer. Joan Naviyuk Kane - Poetry. Wayne Miller - Poetry. Mat Johnson - Fiction. Alison Hawthorne Deming - Creative Nonfiction. Paisley Rekdal - Creative Nonfiction. Workshops are capped at 12 and applications are processed first-come, first-served until workshops are filled. 

Chautauqua Writers’ Festival. June 20 - 23, 2018: Chautauqua, New York. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as readings, panel discussions, individual conferences with faculty members, open mics, and time to write.  The faculty include poets francine j. harris and Hoa Nguyen; fiction writers Jennine Capó Crucet and Eleanor Henderson; and creative nonfiction writer Mike Scalise. Fiction and creative nonfiction writer Kiese Laymon will deliver the keynote on the the of "Writing in Times of Crisis." The cost of tuition is $500 ($400 for sponsored students). The cost of tuition without workshops and one-on-one faculty sessions is $200. The discounted fee for lodging in the Athenaeum Hotel ranges from $61.29 per night for a double room to $122.57 per night for a single room. The registration deadline is April 30.

Western Writers of America Convention. June 20 - 23 2018: Cheyenne, Wyoming. Children's, Fiction, Marketing, Non-fiction, Publishing, Young Adult. History presentations at the convention include Cats in the Old West, Border Wars/Law and Order, Mark Twain Literary Contributions, and more. Other sessions will take place related to the craft of writing, book marketing, and research sources and techniques.

Fordham University Retreat. June 20 - 24, 2018, New York City. "In order to help mentor the next generation of Asian American writers, Kundiman sponsors an annual Retreat in partnership with Fordham University. During the Retreat, nationally renowned Asian American poets and writers conduct Master Classes and manuscript consultations with fellows. Readings, writing circles and informal social gatherings are also scheduled. Through this Retreat, Kundiman hopes to provide a safe and instructive environment that identifies and addresses the unique challenges faced by emerging Asian American writers." Application Deadline: January 15th, 2018.

In Your Write Mind Workshop. June 21 - 24, 2018, Greensburg, Pennsylvania. Workshops on writing, editing & pitching; guest speaker presentations. A writer's workshop for all writers and aspiring writers! Former workshops featured agents and editors from TOR Books, FinePrint Literary Management, Donald Maass Literary Agency, Poisoned Pen Press, Leap Books, Titan Books and authors including JA Konrath, Michael Bracken, Daniel Jose Older, Jeff Strand and Diana Rowland. The workshop is hosted by Seton Hill University Writing Popular Fiction Alumni.

Chuckanut Writers Conference. June 22 - 23, 2018: Bellingham, Washington. Writers conference that includes speakers, panels, breakout sessions, authors' readings, reception with authors, pitch sessions with literary agents, book signings, open mic for attendees. Autobiography/Memoir, Children's, Fiction, Nature, Non-fiction, Poetry, Publishing. 

The Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference, June 22 - 24, 2018: 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.

Annual Conference on Creative Writing at Pacific. June 22 –24, 2018: Stockton, California. Autobiography/Memoir, Fiction, Humor, Journalism, Marketing, Mystery, Non-fiction, Poetry, Publishing, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy. Agents and editors will be available for pitch sessions.

Chicago Writing Workshop. June 23, 2018: Chicago, IL. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop on Saturday, May 14, 2016, at the historic Congress Plaza Hotel, just south of the downtown area. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome." Features over two dozen attending agents.

Shore Thing Writing Getaway: A One Day Retreat for Poets and Writers. June 23, 2018, Atlantic City, NJ. "Join us for this boardwalk-inspired getaway, designed for writers of fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry. Trigger your imagination and compose new work that will surprise and please you. Spend the day immersed in the literary life: discussing writing, doing your own writing and sharing some of your new drafts." Faculty: Peter E. Murphy. Cost: $85.

Publish & Promote Your Book Conference. June 23, 2018: Bronxville, New York. "If you’re ready to find an agent and present your book to the marketplace, come join our community of educators, writers, agents, editors, and publishers at a one day conference designed to help you succeed in your publishing ventures. In addition to panel discussions, participants can register for Pitch Sessions and discuss their book with up to three agents/editors for 10 minutes each. If you're thinking of attending a Pitch Session, consider signing up for one of our Prep For Your Pitch sessions, which will be held on Tuesday, June 12, Wednesday, June 20, and Friday, June 22, at 7 p.m."

Community of Writers at Squaw Valley: Poetry Workshop. June 23 - June 30, 2018: Olympic Valley, California. "We work together to create an atmosphere in which everyone might feel free to try anything. In the mornings we meet in workshops to read to each other the work of the previous twenty-four hours; each participant also has an opportunity to work with each staff poet. In the late afternoons we gather for a conversation about some aspect of craft. On several afternoons staff poets hold brief individual conferences." Registration deadline: March 28, 2018.

Chesapeake Writers' Conference at St. Mary's College of Maryland. June 24 - 30, 2018: St. Mary's City, Maryland. Intensive workshops in three genres for serious writers at all levels of experience, as well as a multi-genre workshop for high schoolers. Featured Writers Include: Heather Green, Angela Pelster, Patricia Henley, Matt Burgess, Matthew Henry Hall, Jerry Gabriel (director).

Science Fiction & Fantasy Novel Writers Workshop. June 24 - July 6, 2018, University of Kansas, Kansas. "This summer, in conjunction with the Gunn Center for the Study of Science Fiction and the SF Writing Workshop, Kij Johnson teaches a two-week intensive workshop on writing novels. The goal of this workshop is to help writers in the early stages of a novel create compelling, coherent plots and openings for their books. Due to a scheduling conflict for Kij, we've swapped the traditional Novel Workshop and "Repeat Offenders" Novel Workshop for writers who have already taken the traditional workshop, which will run from June 10-22, and this year is hosted by the ever-awesome Kevin McNeil."

Jackson Hole Writers Conference, June 28 - 30, 2018: Jackson Hole, WY. You will have ample opportunity to share your work with a distinguished faculty as well as writers from Massachusetts to Florida, from Texas to Washington.Serious writers pour into Jackson Hole each June looking for a fresh, but critical eye on their work. This event usually has at least 4 agents to pitch.

DRC Conference Faculty & Workshops 2016. June 28 - 30, 2018: Davenport, Iowa. Daily workshops, critiques, pitches, evening events, keynote. With five three-day workshops, book pitches with a publisher and an agent, author luncheon, concluding luncheon, free evening faculty reading and keynote address, there’s something for everyone! Register before June 15th to receive the early bird discount.

David R. Collins Writers' Conference. June 28 - 30, 2018: Davenport, Iowa. Develop your writing working with award-winning authors in a variety of genres, and get publishing tips, one-on-one critiques, and pitch a manuscript. "Each workshop is 4.5 hours over three days, 1.5 hours per day. We will be offering five workshops in 2017, including: poetry; nonfiction/memoir; short fiction; the novel; and finding and keeping an agent. We also have a faculty reading followed by an open mic for participants; pitch sessions for writers to present manuscripts to an agent and an independent press; one-on-one manuscript critiques; an author luncheon; and a featured speaker TBA."

The Art of Description. June 28 - July 2, 2018: Austerlitz NY. Faculty: Colleen Kinder and Owen Murray. "All authors are illustrators. They sketch vivid scenes, legible faces, contoured landscapes, and so much more in the reader’s minds-eye. How do we cultivate this ability: to animate the visual world distinctively and unforgettably in the imaginations of our readers? Co-taught by a writer and photographer/illustrator team Colleen Kinder and Owen Murray, this course will take students on a two-dimensional journey, equipping them to illustrate the visual world in radiant detail."

The Writers’ League of Texas Agents & Editors Conference. June 29 – July 1, 2018: Austin, Tex. The conference features panels, lectures, networking opportunities, and receptions. Individual manuscript consultations with agents or editors are available. Participating agents include Terra Chalberg (Chalberg & Sussman), Arielle Datz (Dunow, Carlson & Lerner), Adriana Domínguez (Full Circle Literary), Cherise Fisher (Wendy Sherman Associates), Wendi Gu (Janklow & Nesbit), Kristina Moore (The Wiley Agency), Eric Myers (Myers Literary Management), Rachel Orr (Prospect Agency), Sharon Pelletier (Dystel, Goderich & Bourret), Sarah Phair (Trident Media Group), Grace A. Ross (Regal Hoffman & Associates), Jeff Silberman (Folio Literary Management), and Jennifer Chen Tran (Bradford Literary Agency). The cost of the conference is $469 ($409 for Writers’ League members), which includes a one-on-one consultation with an agent or editor until April 2, and $509 ($449 for members) thereafter.

Warm weather marks the beginning of conference season for writers. In May there are nearly three dozen writing conferences that span the country from one coast to the other. There are conferences that focus on the craft of writing, pitch conferences with agents and editors, and retreats for those who just need to get away.
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Conferences that include intimate coaching sessions tend to fill up quickly. I have included these, even if they are full, so you can plan ahead for next year. Planning ahead also gives you an opportunity to apply for the scholarships offered by some of these conferences. You can find a comprehensive list of conferences throughout the year here: Writing Conferences.
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8th Annual Nonfiction Writers Conference. May 2–4, 2018: Conducted online. Opening Speaker: Gretchen Rubin

Northern Colorado Writers Conference. May 4–5, 2018, Fort Collins CO. Workshops, seminars, speakers, entertainment, agent roundtables, pitch sessions, networking with authors and industry professionals.

Idaho Writers Guild Conference. May 4–5, 2018, Boise, Idaho. Meet with agents, editors, and authors. Panel discussions, workshops, and a keynote speaker. Your registration — $195 for IWG members, $225 for non-members.

Atlanta Writers Conference. May 4–5, 2018, Atlanta, GA. The conference featured publishing panels, pitch sessions, manuscript and query letter critiques, and a workshop on screenwriting for writers who want to turn their novels in screenplays. Participating publishing professionals include editors Rebecca Aronson (Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins), Nicole Counts (One World/Penguin Random House), Megan Hogan (Simon & Schuster), Anna Michels (Sourcebooks), Christopher Morgan (Tor/Forge), and Anne Speyer, (Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House), and agents Linda Camacho (Gallt and Zacker Literary Agency), Sarah Landis (Sterling Lord Literistic), Sam Morgan (Foundry Media LLC), Monica Odom (Liza Dawson & Associates), Abby Saul (The Lark Group), and Brooks Sherman (Janklow & Nesbit Associates).

Washington Writers Conference 2018. May 4–5, 2018: College Park, MD. “We begin Friday evening, May 4th, with a meet-and-greet-and-eat reception (cash bar), followed by a “How to Pitch to Agents” panel to help you succeed during Saturday’s pitch sessions. Several past attendees have signed with agents and/or landed book deals after pitching at our conference! And one agent alone obtained five book contracts for his new clients! Keynoter will be Bob Schieffer, veteran broadcast journalist, former CBS News anchor and “Face the Nation” moderator, and author, most recently, of Overload: Finding the Truth in Today’s Deluge of News. National Book Award-winning novelist Alice McDermott will be in conversation with Tayla Burney, a radio producer and creator of the WAMU Books events series. Other Saturday panels include sessions on climate change (from a writer’s perspective), “Political Books in the Age of Trump,” and how to get published. As always, you can count on enjoying the fellowship and networking with other established and aspiring authors.”

Gold Rush Writers Conference. May 4–6, 2018, Mokelumne Hill, CA. “Writing professionals will guide you to a publishing bonanza through a series of panels, specialty talks, workshops and celebrity lectures. Go one-on-one with successful poets, novelists, biographers, memoirists and short story writers.” Writing workshops in Autobiography/Memoir, Children’s, Fiction, Marketing, Non-fiction, Poetry, Publishing, Romance, Travel, Young Adult. Individual sessions available.

Hedgebrook VORTEXT Salon. May 4–6, 2018, Whidbey Institute on Whidbey Island, about 35 miles northwest of Seattle. Workshops, panel discussions, lectures, open mics, and time to write in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction for women writers.

The Massachusetts Poetry Festival. May 4 — May 6, 2018, Salem, Massachusetts. The Mass Poetry Festival offers nearly 100 poetry readings and workshops, a small press and literary fair, panels, poetry slams, and open-air readings. More than 150 poets will engage with thousands of New Englanders.

River View Poetry Getaway. May 4–6, 2018: Garrison, NY. A retreat with workshops led by Peter Murphy. Yoga sessions offered.

Columbus State Community College Writers Conference. May 5, 2018, Columbus, Ohio. Workshops in Autobiography/Memoir, Business/Technical, Fiction, Journalism, Marketing, Non-fiction, Playwriting, Poetry, Publishing, Screenwriting. This one-day conference is free of charge.

Mokulē‘ia Writers Retreat. May 6–11, 2018 in Waialua, Hawaii at Camp Mokulē‘ia, Oahu. Offers workshops in fiction and nonfiction, readings, one-on-one consultations, publishing panels, yoga sessions. The retreat is led by North Shore native Constance Hale, the author of Sin and Syntax, the editor of more than two dozen books, and a journalist whose stories about Hawai‘i appear on CD liner notes, as well as in publications like The Los Angeles Times and Smithsonian magazine. Hale invites a mix of writers, editors, and agents from both the islands and the mainland to lead various workshops and appear on panels.

Writing and Revising Narrative Nonfiction. May 7–12, 2018: Honesdale, PA. A writer of narrative nonfiction must work with both head and heart. Whether you’re writing a 1,200-word picture book, a 35,000-word middle grade, or a 65,000-word book for young adults, you need to carefully research to gather information and then assess its accuracy and relevance in order to create a compelling, true story. At this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to dig deeply into your revision. Deadline for application: April 15.

Lakefly Writers Conference. May 11–12, 2018: Premier Waterfront Hotel & Convention Center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Workshops, talks, and a bookfair for poets, fiction writers, and nonfiction writers. Keynote is mystery writer Lori Rader-Day, author of The Day I Died, The Black Hour, and Little Pretty Things. She is the recipient of the 2016 Mary Higgins Clark Award. Many speakers and presenters.

Seaside Writers Conference (Now Longleaf Writers). May 13–20, 2018: Seaside Assembly Hall in Seaside, Florida. “The Seaside Writers Conference is an annual gathering of creative writers from all over the nation, and features award-winning writers in poetry and fiction and screenwriting who will offer a full week of intensive writing workshops, one day seminars, school outreach programs, and social events.” Many authors, agents, editors.

Writing the Unreal: The Whole Novel Workshop in Fantasy & Speculative Fiction. May 13 -20, 2018, Honesdale, PA. This unique workshop is designed for anyone with a complete or near-complete draft of a middle-grade or young adult novel in fantasy or speculative fiction who wants a thorough manuscript critique and help making plans for revision. WAITLISTED.

Romance Times BookLovers. May 15 -20, 2018, Peppermill Resort, Reno, Nevada. More than 200 workshops led by bestselling authors and industry professionals covering craft, media & marketing, self-publishing, social media and business plus workshops led by star authors in genres including Romance. Urban Fantasy, Erotica, Mystery/Thriller/Suspense, Young Adult, New Adult, Inspirational, SF/Fantasy and Mainstream Fiction. Also book signings and many author events. Aspiring and published authors can make appointments with an agent or editor.

Writing By Writers Methow Valley Workshop. May 16–20 2018:Winthrop, WA. Faculty includes Dorothy Allison, Peter Ho Davies and Pam Houston. Tuition: $1,650 (before November 1) $1,750 (after November 1) includes one four-day workshop, admittance to all panels and readings, and all meals (dinner on Wednesday; three meals Thursday through Saturday; breakfast and lunch on Sunday) and lodging for four nights.

Nebula Conference. May 17th-20th, 2018, Pittsburgh, PA. SFWA members and other individuals who are interested in the field of science fiction and fantasy are welcome to attend SFWA’s Nebula Conference. Attendees may participate in workshops, programming and special events throughout the weekend. You do not need to be a member of SFWA to attend.

ASJA (American Society of Journalists and Authors) Writers Conference, May 18–19, 2018. NYC, NY. Focus on Autobiography/Memoir, Business/Technical, Humor, Journalism, Marketing, Nature, Non-fiction, Publishing, Religion, Screenwriting, Travel. Attending: more than 100 editors, authors, literary agents, and publicists.

Pennwriters Conference. May 18–20, 2018: Pittsburgh, PA. Friday evening keynote Gayle Lynds; Saturday afternoon keynote Wende Dikec; and 20+ authors, literary agents & editors, writing industry pros. Costs: $375 for 3-day registration. One-day registration available $185.

Red Ink Conference. May 19, 2018: Troy, MI. “Here are some topics we’ll cover: From the Page to the Stage: Turning Your Bestselling Book into a Script, Self-Publishing Industry Secrets, How to Create a Bestselling Bio, The Bestseller Book Synopsis, Marketing to Make Money.”

Novel-In-Progress Bookcamp. May 20–26, 2018: West Bend WI. 6-day, residential workshop-retreat for writers in all genres working on a novel or creative nonfiction book. Workshops in Autobiography/Memoir, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Mystery, Non-fiction, Publishing, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Young Adult. Registration is limited to 30 people.

Boldface Conference for Emerging Writers. May 21–25, 2018: Houston, Texas. Daily workshops, readings, craft talks, social events and professionalism panels in an intimate and supportive environment designed specifically with the needs of emerging writers in mind.

Wake Up and Write WRW and Writers Retreat Workshop. May 22–31, 2018: Boise, Idaho. Workshops, marketing sessions, and one-on-one with agent Lisa Abellera.

Creative Nonfiction Writers’ Conference. May 24–26, 2018: Wyndham University Center in Pittsburgh. Master classes, craft discussions, publishing talks, pitch sessions, and readings for creative nonfiction writers. In just three days you can meet one-on-one with a literary agent or publishing consultant, get concrete advice from professional writers, hear what different kinds of editors are looking for, and hone your skills in an inspiring small-group session. You’ll also meet and mingle with writers from across the country who share your excitement about the writing process.

Sundress Academy for the Arts Summer Poetry Writing Retreat. May 25–27, 2018: Knoxville, Tennessee. The three-day, two-night camping retreat will be held at SAFTA’s own Firefly Farms in Knoxville, Tennessee. All SAFTA retreats focus on generative poetry writing, and this year’s poetry retreat will also include break-out sessions on writing political poetry, writing confession, kicking writer’s block, publishing, and more.

Balticon 51. May 25–28, 2018: Baltimore, MD. Balticon is sponsored by the Baltimore Science Fiction Society (BSFS). BSFS presents the Compton Crook Award, the Robert A. Heinlein Award, and the winner of the annual Jack L. Chalker Young Writer’s Contest annually at this event. Faculty: Guest of Honor: Catherine Asaro. Multiple tracks of Programming over the four day weekend, featuring authors, artists, scientists, musicians, podcasters, publishers, editors, costumers and other creative SF luminaries.

James Jones Writers Workshop Retreat. May 27 — June 3, 2018: New Harmony, IN. Faculty: Kaylie Jones, Judy Mandel, J Patrick Redmond. Costs: Advanced Writing Workshop (includes food and lodging for 7 days): $2,450. The Art of Creative Writing (beginner): $500

North Words Writers Symposium: May 30 — June 2, 2018: Skagway, Alaska. In addition to keynote author Susan Orlean, current Alaska Writer Laureate Ernestine Hayes of Juneau, Portland novelist Willy Vlautin, Ketchikan writer-artist Ray Troll, Washington writer-editor Colleen Mondor, and Fairbanks writer and former Alaska Writer Laureate Frank Soos. Juneau poet Emily Wall will be one of the workshop leaders. Costs: $375 includes most meals. College credit extra for $90.
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Bear River Writers’ Conference. May 31 — June 4, 2018: Camp Michigania on Walloon Lake, near Petoskey, Michigan. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as readings, discussions, nature walks, and time to write. The faculty includes poets Tarfia Faizullah, Ross Gay, Thomas Lynch, Jamaal May, and Richard Tillinghast; poet and fiction writer Laura Kasischke; fiction writers Desiree Coope, Antonya Nelson, and Douglas Trevor; and creative nonfiction writers Jerry Dennis and Mardi Link. Tuition, including all meals and lodging, ranges from $715 for a bunk room to $875 for a private room with a private bathroom. The cost without lodging is $625. A deposit is required to secure enrollment; the balance is due by May 5.
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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.

March is officially the beginning of spring, and time for writers to come out of hibernation and congregate!

There are some great conferences this month. If your manuscript is complete, you can pitch it to agents at several conferences, including Sleuthfest in Florida (for mystery writers), Write Stuff in Pennsylvania, and the big New York Pitch Fest. There are also retreats and workshops for writers who just need to get away for awhile to get the creative juices flowing.

Attending a conference is one of the best things you can do for your writing career. Conferences offer a unique opportunity to network with other writers, meet agents and pitch your book, and learn how the publishing industry works from editors and professionals.

I strongly urge you to plan ahead if you are thinking of attending a writing conference. Many offer scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost. And all of the intensive writing workshops have application deadlines. For a month-by-month list of conferences throughout the year see: Writing Conferences. (You will also find links to resources that can help you find conferences in your area on that page.) If you miss your ideal conference this year, plan for next year.
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Sleuthfest. March 1 - 4, 2018, Boca Raton, FL. Sponsored by the Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America a conference for writers and fans. Features writing workshops, social events, and pitch sessions, including:
* Agent Appointments to pitch your finished work
* Critiques of your 10 page manuscript submission
* Forensic track with current forensic techniques & hands-on workshops
* Social events to mingle with agents, editors and your favorite authors
* Auction to purchase critiques of your work by bestselling authors
* Sessions on the craft of writing
* Sessions on marketing and promoting your work
* Practice your Pitch sessions with experienced authors

Winter Writers' Weekend. March 2 - 4, 2018, Princeton, New Jersey. Workshops on self-publishing, book covers, getting book reviews, How to Sell 10,000 Books, The Editor/Author Relationship: What You Can Expect and more. Cost $200.

A One Day Retreat for Poets and Writers. March 3, 2018, Princeton, NJ. "Do you want to publish your writing but struggle with a lack of know-how and fear of rejection? Join us for this hands-on workshop where we will guide you through the process from blank page to published piece. If you are an aspiring author you will learn how and where to submit your work. If you are experienced you will discover new markets and resources to expand your readership. Whether you are working on a novel, memoir, short stories, personal essays or poetry, you will go home with an action plan and the tools to carry it out."

Redrock Creative Writing Seminar, St. George, Utah, March 3, 2018. Classes and readings in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. The faculty includes poet Jim Barton, Dr. Cindy King, and Lara Candland.

Association of Writers & Writing Programs Conference. March 7 - 10, 2018, Tampa, FL. "The AWP Conference & Bookfair is an essential annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers. Each year more than 12,000 attendees join our community for four days of insightful dialogue, networking, and unrivaled access to the organizations and opinion-makers that matter most in contemporary literature. The 2016 conference featured over 2,000 presenters and 550 readings, panels, and craft lectures. The bookfair hosted over 800 presses, journals, and literary organizations from around the world. AWP’s is now the largest literary conference in North America."

Algonkian Novel Retreat, Sterling, Virginia, March 7 - 11, 2018. "In keeping with the spirit of this place and the goals of this retreat, you can be as goal-oriented or as hesitant in approach as you wish. You can show us your manuscript, improve your skills, clear your head, have your work read by our writer mentors, whatever works for you, whatever helps you grow and discover your vision as a writer. You discuss with us ahead of time via the Algonkian Writer Retreat Application the goals you wish to accomplish, and we'll work with you to make it happen. Do you desire a review of your short stories or flash fiction? A line edit? Do you wish to discuss the reality of the current fiction market, your novel project, plot and characters, or perhaps get feedback on the opening hook or a few sample chapters? Or would you simply like a relaxed and productive dialogue about your goals as a writer?"  Registration is first come, first served.

Writer’s High Retreat. March 9 - 11, 2018, Dawsonville, Georgia. The retreat features workshops for poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers, as well as readings, talks, and open mics. Featured speakers include fiction writer Patti Callahan Henry and agent, fiction writer, and nonfiction writer Nick Chiles. The cost of the retreat, which includes lodging and all meals, is $733 for a single room and $579 for a double room. Space is limited; Registration is first come, first served. The registration deadline is February 23.

Atlanta Writing Workshop, March 10, 2018, Atlanta, GA. A full-day of “How to Get Published.” Attending literary agents and editors: Ali Herring (Spencerhill Associates), Cherry Weiner (Weiner Literary), Sally Apokedak (Leslie H. Stobbe Literary Agency), Latoya C. Smith (L. Perkins Agency), Kristy Hunter (The Knight Agency), Samantha Fountain (Corvisiero Agency), Lauren Jablonski (St. Martin’s Press), Julie Gwinn (The Seymour Agency) and more to come.

Bay to Ocean Writers Conference. Wye Mills, Maryland, March 10, 2018. Sponsored by the Eastern Shore Writers Association. "The BTO conference features workshops, presentations, and panel discussions on a wide variety of topics pertaining to the craft of writing, publishing, marketing, the Internet, and the intricacies of particular genres. It is an opportunity to meet with many writing peers in the region. Speakers include accomplished authors, poets, film writers, writing instructors, editors, and publishers. BTO also offers one-on-one manuscript reviews with experienced writing instructors and editors for registered attendees for a fee."

Wik '18. Society of Childrens Book Writers and Illustrators. Hoover, Alabama, March 10-11, 2018. Conference for children's book writers and illustrators. Faculty includes writers, illustrators, agents, editors, and publishers.

Moravian College Writers' Conference. March 16 - 17, 2018, Bethlehem, PA. Workshops, craft talks, and more on the theme of Writing & Health. Writers of all genres & at all career stages welcome! Keynote speaker Marie Myung-Ok Lee and special guest faculty including Nina Angela McKissock, Gillian Pidcock , Mary Heather Noble, and Fran Quigley. Costs: $125. Includes workshop, craft talk, and faculty roundtable; faculty readings and book signings; Fri. welcome reception and Sat. lunch. Hotel discounts in historic Bethlehem, PA.

Colrain One-Day Retreat: What is a Poetry Manuscript? March  17, 2018, Barred Owl Retreat, Leicester, Massachusetts.The Colrain One-Day Informational Retreat is designed for poets who wish to learn the basics of a poetry manuscript before submitting to presses and/or applying to the Colrain Poetry Manuscript Conference.  In a small group (8-10 poets) team-led by two seasoned Colrain Poetry Manuscript facilitators.

Beall Poetry Festival. March 21 - 23, 2018, Waco, TX. The festival features readings, panel discussions, and the Virginia Beall Ball Lecture on Contemporary Poetry. Participating poets include Kwame Dawes, Dania Gioia, Mark Jarman, and Lisa Russ Spaar. All events are free and open to the public.

University of North Dakota Writers Conference. March 21 - 23, 2018, Grand Forks, North Dakota. Theme: Truth and Lies. This year's authors/artists include Molly McCully Brown, Nicholas Galanin,
David Grann, Marlon James, Lauren Markham, and Ocean Vuong. FREE and open to the public.

Virginia Festival of the Book, March 21 - 25, 2018. "The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 for each of the past thirteen years. We have presented a captivating list of authors, ranging from international bestsellers to topical specialists to debut authors." Book exhibits, talks by authors, readings, workshops on book promotion, finding an agent, poetry, publishing, agents roundtable - you name it, this conference has it.

Write Stuff Writers Conference. March 22 - 24, 2018, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Workshops, sessions on craft and business of writing. Meetings with agents, editors, and book coaches, book fair, and more. Keynote Speaker: Bob Mayer. Pre-conference workshops: Bob Mayer, Jane Cleland. Additionally on Saturday will be the above plus Ben Sobieck, Matt Betts, Tabitha Jorgensen, Richard White, and Dan Krippene.

The Furious Flower Poetry Center Collegiate Summit. March 22-24, 2018. Harrisonburg, VA. Open to undergraduate and graduate students from any college or university program, this three-day summit invites participants to explore how poetry reaches across geographical borders and beyond conventional literary and ideological boundaries. The program includes in-depth workshops facilitated by distinguished poets Brenda Marie Osbey and Anastacia Reneè, a reading and presentation by the 2017 Pulitzer Prize winner Tyehimba Jess, roundtable discussions, a day-trip to Charlottesville for the Virginia Festival of the Book, and a closing open mic session for participating student poets. The registration fee is $50 per person. Registration is open until full.

Algonkian Writers New York Pitch Conference, March 22 - 25, 2018, NY, NY. "The event focuses on the art of the novel pitch as the best method not only for communicating your work, but for having you and your work taken seriously by industry professionals. More importantly though, it is also a diagnostic method for workshopping the plot, premise, and other elements of the story to determine quality and marketability. Simply put, you cannot successfully pitch a viable commercial novel if you don't have a viable commercial novel. Our goal, therefore, is to set you on a realistic path to publication."

Everything You Need to Know About Children’s Book Publishing A Crash Course. Honesdale, PA. March 22 -25, 2018. Sponsored by Highlights for children, this is an intensive workshop covering  every aspect of publishing children's books.

14th National Black Writers Conference, "Gathering at the Waters: Healing, Legacy, and Activism in Black Literature." March 22 -25, 2018, Brooklyn, NY. Award-winning writers Colson Whitehead, Kwame Dawes, David Levering Lewis, Susan L. Taylor, speculative fiction writers Steven Barnes and Tananarive Due, and cultural historian Eugene B. Redmond are 2018 National Black Writers Conference Honorees.

Mountain Valley Writers Conference. March 23 - 24, 2018, Guntersville, Alabama. Author signings, giveaways, workshops, learning sessions, and networking opportunities. An introducing Word War,  a community-wide event featuring panel discussions, author readings, contest winners, word war competitions, and an after party!

The Work Conference. March 23 - 25, 2018, New York City. "The Work is a boutique writers’ conference, meaning it’s purposefully small, highly personalized, and focused on bringing 30 hard-working authors together for an unforgettable weekend." Faculty: Leon Husock, Sarah Levitt, Daniel Kirschen, Heather Flaherty, Natalie Halla, Kerin Wicks, Adriann Ranta Zurhellen, Jennifer Udden, Alex Arnold, Monica Odom, Stephanie Delman, Annie Hwang, Tiffany Liao, Laura Chasen, Katie Grimm.

WonderCon, March 23 - March 25, 2018, Anaheim, CA. HUGE comic book convention.

Authors' Salon at Clockwork Alchemy. March 23 - 25, 2018, Burlingame, California, Faculty Harry Turtledove, Kirsten Weiss, TE MacArthur, AJ Sikes, BJ Sikes, Anthony Francis, David Drake, Katherine Morse, Dover Whitecliff, Mike Tierney, Lillian Csernica, Sumiko Saulson, Kale Lawrence.

Great Plains Writers Conference. March 23 - 25, 2018, South Dakota State University. "Intimate conversations about the writing craft."

Antioch Writers' Workshop. March 24, 2018, Yellow Springs, Ohio. "Explore all the elements, from start to finish, that you'll need to master to tell YOUR story, whether in the form of fiction (novel, short story) or creative nonfiction (memoir, personal essay, or narrative.) We'll start with generating ideas, move on to drafting, revising and editing techniques, and finish up with submitting your work. After a full day chock-full of helpful and inspirational tips and techniques, you'll go home with a tool-kit to help you on every step of the way to telling your story!" The cost for the full-day program is $150.00

Create Something Magical Conference. March 24 - 25, 2018, Woodbridge, New Jersey and Edison, New Jersey. Workshops and panels. Faculty: J. Kenner, Dee Davis, Chris Redding and more.

33rd Annual National Undergraduate Literature Conference, March 29 - March 31, 2018, Weber State University, Ogden, UT. "Each year, nearly 200 undergraduate writers and poets throughout North America, and sometimes beyond, come to Weber State University to present their work and learn from some of the most important writers in contemporary literature."

During the holidays, writing conferences slow down. However, the few conferences offered in December are vibrant with opportunities. 

The New York Pitch Conference is ideal for anyone with a finished manuscript. Dozens of agents and editors attend this conference to listen to pitches, and not only do you get a chance to pitch to an agent, you can take workshops that teach you how to pitch. 

In an age in which agents frequently only accept submissions from writers they have met at a pitch conference, this is an event not to be missed.
I've said it before, and I will say it again - attending a conference is one of the best things you can do for your writing career. Conferences offer a unique opportunity to network with other writers, meet agents and pitch your book, and learn how the publishing industry works from editors and professionals.

I strongly urge you to plan ahead if you are thinking of attending a writing conference. Many offer scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost. And all of the intensive writing workshops have application deadlines. For a month-by-month list of conferences throughout the year see: Writing Conferences. (You will also find links to resources that can help you find conferences in your area on that page.) 

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LWC}NYC Writers Conference. Dec 7 - 8, 2017, NY, NY. Clinics, workshops and panels with industry professionals. Plus, Agent Speed Dating on December 7, 2017 offers meetings with agents from Don Congdon Associates, Fletcher & Company, Folio Literary Management, Trident Media Group, Writers House, and other top literary agencies—included in your registration, which also comes with two lunches and welcome coffee & bagels. Cost is $350.

The 2017 Mesa Book Festival. December 9, 2017, Mesa, Arizona. The festival features presentations, readings, visits with authors, and a poetry open mic. Participating authors include fiction writers Marcia Fine, Marsha Ward, Connie Wesala, and Natalie Wright; and creative nonfiction writers Bruce Davis, Jan Krulick-Belin, and Katrina Shawver. All events are free and open to the public.

The 2017 Hawai’i Writers’ Retreat. December 10-16, 2017, Puako, Hawai’i. Faculty: Sheila Bender; Brenda Miller. Mornings at the Hawai’i Writers’ Retreat feature intensive craft lectures, as well as generative-writing workshops.

New York Pitch Conference. Dec 14 - 17, 2017, NY, NY. The New York Pitch Conference and writers workshop is held four times a year and features publishing house editors from major houses such as Penguin, Random House, St. Martins, Harper Collins, Tor and Del Rey, Kensington Books and many more who are looking for new novels in a variety of genres, as well as narrative non-fiction. The event focuses on the art of the novel pitch as the best method not only for communicating your work, but for having you and your work taken seriously by industry professionals. The registration fee until December 5 is $795.00, and $895.00 after that date. This fee covers all conference pitch sessions and workshops.

Attending a conference is one of the best things you can do for your writing career. Conferences offer a unique opportunity to network with other writers, meet agents and pitch your book, and learn how the publishing industry works from editors and professionals in the field.


For a month-by-month list of conferences throughout the year see: Writing Conferences. (You will also find links to resources that can help you find conferences in your area on that page.)

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Medical Writing and Communication Conference. Nov 1 - 4, 2017, Orlando FLA. Workshops in medical writing, designing materials for patients, analysis, clinical reports, and more.

The Monterey Writer Retreat in California. November 1 - 5, 2017, Monterey, CA. Three of the best developmental commercial fiction editor-agents in the business--Andrea Hurst, Paula Munier, and Michael Neff --will be available from 9 AM to noon each day of the retreat for one-on-one sessions with writers. Attendance and focus will be up to each individual writer. They will also schedule, as needed, up to two more hours during afternoons for further one-on-one sessions.

Master Class: Understanding “CLOSEThird” Point Of View. November 2 – 5, 2017, Honesdale, PA. From Jane Austen and Mark Twain to Kate Di Camillo and J. K. Rowling, a great variety of authors use “close” or “personal” third to move between a novel’s inner and outer story, achieving a real emotional intimacy through this close-to-the-bone perspective. In this workshop, writers will begin storytelling from a conversational first-person perspective and move to “close” or “personal” third, unlocking the potential of their story through intimate voice and true emotional power. WAITLISTED.

Sag Harbor Creative Nonfiction Writers Conference. November 2 – 5, 2017, Sag Harbor, NY. Spark your creativity and take your writing to the next level at the nonfiction writing conference in Sag Harbor – the heart of the east end of Long Island. The only small and focused conference in nonfiction in the country. Faculty: Donna Kaz, Roger Rosenblatt, Patricia McCormick, Terri Muuss, Matt Pasca, Judson Merrill, Sandra Yin, Michelle Blankenship, Alex Hess.

Sanibel Island Writers Conference. November 2 - 5, 2017, Sanibel Island, Florida. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as manuscript consultations, readings, panels, concerts, and book signings. Faculty and visiting writers include poets Barbara Hamby, David Kirby, and Keith Kopka; fiction writers Lynne Barrett, Kevin Canty, John Dufresne, Linda Oatman High, Nathan Hill, Michelle Richman, Darin Strauss, Ann Kidd Taylor, and Robert Wilder; creative nonfiction writers Steve Almond, M. K. Asante, Sloane Crosley, Beth Ann Fennelly, Joyce Maynard, Susannah Meadows, and Megan Stielstra; agents Lisa Gallagher (DeFiore & Company), Christopher Schelling (Selectric Artists), and Nicole Tourtelot (DeFiore & Company); and editor Alicia Lynn Clancy (St. Martin’s Press). The keynote speaker is fiction writer Alice Hoffman. The cost of the conference is $500 ($400 for BIG ARTS members and $300 for full-time students). For a manuscript consultation or workshop, submit up to 10 pages of poetry or prose by September 30. The cost of an individual manuscript consultation is $100; the cost of a small-group workshop is $100.

Atlanta Writers Conference. Nov 3 - 4, 2017, Atlanta, Georgia.  publishing panels, pitch sessions, manuscript and query letter critiques, and marketing workshops. Participating publishing professionals include Annie Chagnot, Editor, Spiegel & Grau, Penguin Random House; Jennie Conway, Editorial Assistant, St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Publishers; Sylvan Creekmore, Editor, St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Publishers; Melissa Danaczko, Literary Agent, Stuart Krichevsky Literary Agency; Michael Hoogland, Literary Agent, Dystel Goderich & Bourret, LLC; Alyssa Jennette, Literary Agent, Stonesong Literary Agency: Priyanka Krishnan, Editor, William Morrow, HarperCollins Publishers a and many more.

North Carolina Writers’ Network Fall Conference. November 3-5, 2017, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Workshops and master classes in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as lectures and panels on publishing and finding an agent. The faculty includes Hannah Dela Cruz Abrams, Dan Albergotti, Anna Lena Phillips Bell, Michele T. Berger, and many more. The cost of the full conference is $200 or $260 (including meals) for members, and $300 or $375 (including meals) for nonmembers until October 28. Onsite registration is $450 for the full conference, $250 for Sunday-only attendance, and $350 for Saturday-only attendance.

The BookBaby Independent Authors Conference. November 3-5, 2017, Philadelphia, PA. The Independent Authors Conference is the only conference that educates independent authors on how to cultivate a successful career in the self-publishing industry. Over three exciting days in historic Philadelphia, you’ll engage in workshops concentrated on learning and improving the skills you need to succeed, including effective writing techniques and strengthening your book marketing and promotion tactics.

New Worlds, New Voices SFF Workshops. November 8 - 12, 2017, Morro Bay, CA. During the course of the conference, writers will hone and improve their writer voice and style by studying and applying an array of narrative, scene, and structure technique, thus enabling them to begin, enhance, and/or reconstruct their work in more powerful and innovative ways. Writing exercises are derived from analysis of a select group of works by both dramatists and authors.

Writing by Writers Manuscript Boot Camp. November 10 - 13, 2017, Tahoe City, California. Workshops for book-length manuscripts, as well as craft talks, readings, and agent panels, and individual meetings with agents. "The Writing By Writers Manuscript Boot Camp is for the writer who has a full book-length manuscript (novel, memoir, short story or poetry collection) and would like to engage with a small group for a serious and productive response. The long weekend will include an intimate full manuscript workshop, craft talks, readings, an agent panel and individual agent meetings – the perfect pre-publication boot camp for any manuscript."  Classes are limited to 5 participants. The cost of tuition, which includes a manuscript review of up to 300 pages with a faculty member, an individual meeting with an agent, lodging at the Granlibakken Resort, and all meals, is $3,250. Registration deadline September 15.

Colrain Poetry Manuscript Conference. November 10 - 13, 2017, Hatfield, MA. Features workshops of book-length poetry manuscripts with poet-editor-educators Joan Houlihan and Martha Rhodes. The cost of the conference is $1,375, which includes tuition, a private room, and meals. Using the online application system, submit three to four poems and a brief bio.

2017 Artists-In-Residency Honoree:Varian Johnson. November 10 – 14, 2017, Honesdale, PA. “Our 2017 Artists-in-Residency include Laurie Halse Anderson, Kathryn Erskine, Denise Fleming, Matt de la Peña and Varian Johnson. Each artist-in-residence will spend five days at the Highlights Foundation Retreat Center working on projects for publication. To raise awareness about these artists and their upcoming works, we invite other artists – writers, poets, and illustrators – to join them during their residency. While days will be spent on individual projects, mealtimes will bring all artists together to share farm-fresh food and conversation. After dinner, our artists-in-residence will host informal sharing and feedback sessions for all works-in-progress.”

Learn and Network. November 17 - 18, 2017, Branson, MO. The Ozarks Writers League is a group of like-minded individuals dedicated to promoting writing, literacy, photography, and art. Since 1983, OWL has welcomed individuals at all stages of their development.

WriteAngles. November 18, 2017, South Hadley, Massachusetts. Panels and workshops, with two keynoters, a limited number of agent meetings. Continental breakfast, and buffet lunch included. Agents: TBA

​If you have the time and the money, attending a conference is the best thing you can do for your writing career. Conferences offer a unique opportunity to network with other writers, meet agents and pitch your book, and learn how the publishing industry works from editors and professionals in the field.


There are nearly three dozen exciting conferences in September. Workshops, retreats, and festivals are held in locations that span the country. If you miss your perfect conference, don't worry. Many of these are annual events, so plan ahead for next year!

For a month-by-month list of conferences throughout the year see: Writing Conferences. (You will also find links to resources that can help you find conferences in your area on that page.)

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DragonCon. Sept. 1–4, 2017, Atlanta, Ga. HUGE sci-fi event, with parade, autograph sessions, live performances, readings, wrestling (!), workshops on belly dancing, writing (yes, there's even some writing), art show. (This conference sounds really wild.)

2017 LoonSong Retreat. September 7-11, 2017, Cook, Minnesota. Award winning writers and teachers: Gary Schmidt, MT Anderson, Candace Flemming, Eric Rohmann, Marion Dane Bauer and more in an intimate setting for those who write for Children and Young Adults.

HippoCamp Creative Nonfiction Conference. Sept 8 - 10, 2017: Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Craft and query workshops, panel discussions, lectures, open mics, and readings for creative nonfiction writers. Faculty: TBA.

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Colorado Gold Conference. Sept. 8- 10, 2017, Denver, CO. Keynote Speakers: Diana Gabaldon, Sherry Thomas & Lori Rader-Day. Faculty includes a wide variety of published authors, marketers, editors, and agents. Opportunities to pitch projects to agents and editors.

Connecticut Fiction Fest. Sponsored by Connecticut Chapter of Romance Writers of America. Sept. 8- 10, 2017, Norwalk, CT. Keynote Heather Graham, master class taught by Jane Friedman. 20+ workshops, suitable for all genres and skill levels, full suspense-mystery track, manuscript critiques, opportunities to pitch major agents and editors.

Poets on the Coast. Sept. 8- 10, 2017, La Conner, Washington. Workshop, one-on-one mentoring, craft classes, and yoga for women poets. The faculty includes poets Kelli Russell Agodon and Susan Rich. Tuition, which does not include lodging or meals, is $395. Waitlisted.

49 Writers Tutka Bay Retreat. Sept. 8- 10, 2016, Tutka Bay, Alaska. Guest Instructor: Louise Erdrich.

Creatures, Crimes & Creativity. September 8 - 10, 2017, Columbia, MD. A writer's and fan's conference for genre fiction covering mystery, suspense, thriller, sci-fi, fantasy, steampunk & horror.

San Francisco Writing for Change. Sept 9, 2017, San Francisco, CA. This event is for writers of nonfiction AND fiction who want to change the world for the better through their work.

Slice Literary Writers’ Conference. Sept 9 - 10, 2017, Brooklyn, NY. Craft workshops, panels, and one-on-one agent meetings for poets, fiction writers, and nonfiction writers. Participating authors include fiction writers Julia Fierro, Angela Flournoy, Justin Taylor, and Hannah Tinti; and nonfiction writer Alison Kinney. Participating publishing professionals include Ibrahim Ahmad (Akashic Books), Helen Atsma (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), Libby Flores (PEN USA), Margaux Weisman (Knopf); and agents Andrea Barzvi (Empire Literary), Michelle Brower (Aevitas Creative Management), Jenni Ferrari-Adler (Union Literary), Mark Gottlieb (Trident Media Group), Erin Harris (Folio Literary Management), Annie Hwang (Folio Literary Management), Jeff Kleinman (Folio Literary Management), Kate McKean (Howard Morhaim Literary), Christina Morgan (Serendipity Literary), Andrea Morrison (Writers House), Monica Odom (Bradfor Literary), Anjali Singh (Ayesha Pande Literary), Sarah Smith (David Black Literary), and Saba Sulaiman (Talcott Notch Literary).

UCLA Extension Writing Retreat at Lake Arrowhead. Sept 10 - 15, 2017, Lake Arrowhead, CA. Join a small group of committed writers for four full days of uninterrupted writing time at UCLA’s beautiful conference center at Lake Arrowhead. Participants will enjoy private bedrooms, private baths, and three gourmet meals each day, along with complimentary beverages all day long. The Writers’ Program will coordinate some structured activities, including pre-dinner social hours and nightly open mic events, but your time will ultimately be yours to accomplish your writing goals at your own pace.

Brooklyn Book Festival. September 11-17, 2017, Brooklyn, NY. Readings, panels, workshops, and a book fair. Participants include Karl Ove Knausgård, Joyce Carol Oates, Colson Whitehead, Jacqueline Woodson, Jonathan Lethem, Claire Messud, Chris Hayes, Carolyn Forché, Sarah Dessen, Alexandra Bracken, Thi Bui, Lynn Nottage, Hisham Matar, Maira Kalman and hundreds more! All events are free and open to the public.

Haiku North America Conference. September 13 - 17, 2017, Santa Fe, NM. Conference devoted to haiku as a literary art. Includes presentations, readings, panels, bookfair, exhibits, banquet, anthology. Faculty: William Higginson, Jane Hirshfield, Jim Hackett, George Swede, Haruo Shirane, Sonia Sanchez, John Brandi, Michael Dylan Welch, Jim Kacian, Lee Gurga, Emiko Miyashita, Fay Aoyagi, Ce Rosenow, Lucien Stryk, Gerald Vizenor, Charles Trumbull, Richard Gilbert. 

Algonkian Writer Retreat and Novel Workshop. September 13 - 17, 2017, Sterling,Virginia. This event is now enhanced with new pre-event studies and pre-event phone consultation, a broader range of faculty, an array of vital workshops, as well as extended personal time with business professionals. "You can be as goal-oriented or as hesitant in approach as you wish. You can show us your manuscript, improve your skills, have your work read by our writer mentors, attend our workshops, pitch a literary agent or two, whatever works for you, whatever helps you grow and discover your vision as a writer.

Hampton Roads Writers Ninth Annual Writers' Conference. Sept 14 -16, 2017, Virginia Beach, Virginia. 1 evening plus 2 full days of workshops, 2 best-selling keynoters, 2 first ten-lines critique sessions, 50 workshops during 10 breakout sessions, ten-minute agent pitches, NO-FEE, cash-prize contests for short fiction, short non-fiction, and poetry, FREE 90-minute networking social with food and drink, and evening 2-hr open mic session. Optional conference features include: first 10-pages manuscript review. Workshops cover fiction, nonfiction, memoir, poetry, screenwriting, and the business of getting published. A book shop, book signings, and many networking opportunities will be available.

Historical Realities In Fiction For Children 2017. Sept 14 – 17, 2017, Honesdale, PA. "Join professor, linguist, and author Donna Jo Napoli with her special guest, Professor of Latino/a Literature and Culture and Youth Literature and Media, Marilisa Jiménez García, as they work with you to build an understanding of the role of writing stories to process historical narratives. There will be daily lectures from the faculty paired with one-on-one feedback on your own writing. Build a deeper understanding of the role fiction plays in understanding our shared history."

Kentucky Women Writers Conference, Sept. 15–16, 2017, Lexington, KY. The Kentucky Women Writers Conference is the longest running literary festival of women in the nation. About 1,000 individuals attend the conference each year. Daytime sessions attract about 150 writers at all stages of development, and free evening events gather a lively community of readers. Most come seeking literary sisterhood, help with a manuscript, or practical advice about the publishing industry. Many are students or beginning writers.

2017 Free Expressions Seminars-Emotional Craft of Fiction. Sept. 15–16, 2017, Seattle, WA. Featuring Donald Maass. Based on psychological research and extensive study of what makes novels emotionally gripping, workshop participants will discover how to go beyond showing or telling to create an emotional journey for readers--one unseen but nevertheless deeply felt and ultimately unforgettable.

Chattahoochee Valley Writers Conference. Sept 15 - 16, 2017, Columbus, GA, "Whether you write prose or poetry you can explore capturing thoughts, observations, and reflections with the written word. The sessions will be criticism free. You will be exposed to various writers and their styles, and work on editing, polishing and expanding writings into something that is reflective of your personality and talents. You should leave with a piece of original work and a sense of writing as an avenue to discovering self."

ZEE Jaipur Literature Festival at Boulder. Sept 15 - 16, 2017, Boulder, CO. Presentations, panels, readings, and music performances. Themes at the 2017 festival include migration, U.S. gun culture, nature and the environment, Native American rights, and LGBT, Latino, African American, and Native American voices. Authors include fiction writers Anosh Irani, Alberto Ruy-Sánchez, Navtej Singh Sarna, and Akhil Sharma; and nonfiction writers Johanna Hanink, Paulo Lemos Horta, Erling Kagge, and Dan-el Padilla Peralta. The conference is free, but you have to register in advance.

Historical Writers of America. September 21 - 24, 2017: Albuquerque, New Mexico. Workshops for fiction and nonfiction, research, the submission process, the road to publication, and the life of a historical writer; networking opportunities including keynote luncheon and dinner, theme receptions, and collaboration and brain-storming sessions.

New York Pitch Conference. Sept 21 - 24, 2017, New York NY. Features publishing house editors from major houses such as Penguin, Random House, St. Martins, Harper Collins, Tor and Del Rey, Kensington Books and many more who are looking for new novels in a variety of genres, as well as narrative non-fiction. The event focuses on the art of the novel pitch as the best method not only for communicating your work, but for having you and your work taken seriously by industry professionals.Workshops, homework & pitch training, agent/editor feedback, market study, publication plan.

North Coast Redwoods Writers' Conference. Sept 22 - 23, 2017, Crescent City, CA. Workshops on writing, poetry, memoir, editing, social media, marketing, fiction, submitting.

Ridgefield Writers Conference. Sept 22 - 23, 2017, Ridgefield, CT. Faculty-led workshops; agent, editor and publisher panels; networking; readings; and post-conference resources. Registration closes Sept 1. 

Big Sur on Cape Cod. Sept 22 - 24, 2017, North Falmouth MA. Faculty: Andrea Brown and four of her agents, four editors and four authors.

A Weekend For Words. Sept 22 - 24, 2017, Irvine, CA. 60+ working, professional authors of fiction, nonfiction & screen, editors & agents. Costs $325-$425. Manuscript critique & one-on-one consultation additional.

LiTFUSE Poets’ Workshop. September 22 - 24, 2017, Tieton, WA. Faculty Paisley Rekdal, Tod Marshall, Nance Van Winckel, Joe Wilkins, Tim McNutly, Derek Sheffield, Michael Schmeltzer, Alexander Dang, Carolyne Wright, Christine Holbert, LaRae Wiley, and Shankar Narayan.

The Pacific Coast Children's Novel Workshop & Retreat. Sept 22 - 24, 2017, Santa Cruz, CA. Intensive seminar offers editor or agent feedback on selected whole-novel manuscripts, including two in-person consults with your mentor. Editor and agent critiques on your polished, opening chapters. Faculty includes Katherine Harrison, Editor at Knopf Books for Young Readers, Brianne Johnson, Senior Agent at Writers House, and Sarah Landis, Agent at Sterling Lord Literistic.

Florida Heritage Book Festival & Writers Conference. Sept 23, 2017, St. Augustine, Florida. Among this year's scheduled authors are Ann Taylor, Christopher Tozier, Andrew Nagorski, Rich Wickliffe, Elizabeth Randall, Marty Jourard, and many more.

Western Reserve Writers Conference. Sept 23, 2017, South Euclid, Ohio. This free one-day writing conference takes place at Cuyahoga County Public Library's William N. Skirball Writers' Center, located in the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Branch library. It features a choice of breakout sessions, a keynote address, and private sessions with editors. It occurs annually on the 4th Saturday in September.

2017 Flathead River Writers Conference. Sept 23 - 24, 2017, Kalispell, MT. Writers help writers in this two day conference packed with energizing speakers and workshops. Features:Workshops on VOICE, HOOK, Your WORLD & TRIBE, MS preparation & submission, working with agents, movie deals, media use, & children's book publishing. Authors: Susan Adrian, Christine Carbo, Kathy Dunnehoff, Larry J. Martin, Jess Owen. Agents: Kate Testerman and Cindy Uh.

2nd Annual Broadleaf Writers Conference. Sept 23 - 24, 2017, Decatur, GA. In addition to attending sessions, you will have the opportunity to schedule a five-minute one-on-one session with an agent.

The Journey: Your Path To Publication 2017. Sept 24 – 27, 2017. In this workshop, you will learn more about some of the steps toward publication of your picture book and discover ways to set goals for yourself. Picture book author/illustrator Don Tate and picture book author Carmen Oliver will also give you information and tools "encouraging you to savor the process and to enjoy the journey."

2017 Free Expressions Seminars -Writing the Breakout Novel. Sept 25 - Oct 1, 2017, Tampa, FL. Featuring Donald Maass. Included are new or revised units on story discovery, strong voice, standout characters, the inner journey, compelling story worlds, beautiful writing, creating resonance and finding meaning in both story and process. Breakout fundamentals are also covered: strong characters, inner conflict, personal stakes, plot layers, powerful scenes, micro-tension, practical theme techniques and much more.

​I've said it before, and I will say it again - conferences are not only the best way to meet agents, get tips from other writers, and learn about the publishing industry, they make you feel like a writer. We all need community, and this is how we, as writers, get the necessary incentive to keep writing.

If you miss your perfect conference this year, you may be able to catch it next year. Many conferences are annual events. Planning ahead may also lower the cost, as quite a few conferences offer scholarships and discounts for early bird registrations. (Note: I include conferences that are sold out so you can plan ahead for next year!)

For a full list of conferences organized by month, as well as links for finding local conferences, see: Writing Conferences
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Idyllwild Arts Summer Program Writers Week. July 3 - 7, 2017, Idyllwild, California. Workshops, craft talks, readings, and one-on-one consultations in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. "For decades Idyllwild Arts has been a gathering place for some of the world's finest poets and writers - among them Ray Bradbury, Norman Corwin, Lucille Clifton, Sharon Olds, Maxine Kumin, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Philip Levine, Luis J. Rodriguez, David St. John and Natasha Trethewey. That fine tradition continues with our second annual Writers Week, a gathering of talented writers from Idyllwild Arts and beyond."

Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators Annual Conference. July 7 - 10, 2017, Los Angeles, California. More than 100 writers, editors, illustrators, & agents. Workshops, breakout sessions, manuscript and portfolio consultations, panels, discussions.

North Carolina Writers' Network Squire Summer Writing Residency. July 13 - 16, 2017, Charlotte, North Carolina. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as a presentation and readings. The faculty includes poet Morri Creech, fiction writer Sarah Creech, and creative nonfiction writer Cynthia Lewis. The cost of the residency is $650 ($550 for NCWN members), which includes tuition and shared lodging; the cost is $550 ($400 for NCWN members) for commuters.

The Cleveland Writing Workshop. July 8, 2017, Cleveland, OH. A full-day “How to Get Published” writers conference. "One day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome." Attending agents: Kimiko Nakamura (Dee Mura Literary); Moe Ferrera (BookEnds); Mallory Brown (TriadaUS); Vicki Selvaggio (Jennifer De Chiara Literary); Kaylee Davis (Dee Mura Literary); and Fred Tribuzzo (The Rudy Agency).

Antioch Writers' Workshop. July 8 - 14, 2017, Yellow Springs, Ohio. Featuring Keynoter  and Sunday Morning Craft Class Instructor, John Scalzi.  John is an American science fiction author, online writer, and former president of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. Morning classes and afternoon seminars in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry for all levels of writers--beginning to advanced. The workshop includes opportunities to give readings, receive professional critiques, interact with faculty, and meet with a visiting agent.

Martha’s Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing Summer Seminar. July 9 - 15 and 16 - 22, 2017, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Workshops in poetry and fiction, one-on-one manuscript consultations, panel discussions, and readings.
Frost Place Conference on Poetry. July 9 - 15, 2017: Franconia, NH. Spend a week at “intensive poetry camp” with writers who are deeply committed to learning more about the craft of writing poetry. The Frost Place Poetry Conference offers daily workshops, classes, lectures, writing and revising time in a supportive and dynamic environment. Application Deadline: June 1, 2017.

Young Writers Workshop. July 9 - 29, 2017, Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Restrictions: For students completing grades 9, 10, 11. Three 90-minute workshop sessions daily, including imaginative writing activities and discussion of readings. Weekly individual meetings with workshop instructor. Focus is on using various forms of creative writing to develop language and thinking skills.

Stonecoast Writers’ Conference. July 10 - 15, 2017, Portland, ME. Workshops in poetry, short fiction, novel, and nonfiction/memoir, and a mixed-genre Creative Writing Bootcamp. The Stonecoast Writers’ Conference is open to students of all experience levels. However, admission is selective. Writing sample and deposit required.

Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers. July 10 - 16, 2017: Wallowa Lake, Oregon. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as panel discussions, readings, and open mics. "Held each July at Wallowa Lake in northeast Oregon, Summer Fishtrap gathers writers for a week of inspired writing workshops and culminates with a weekend of passionate discussion on a key issue facing the West." Faculty: Kim Stafford, Anis Mojgani, Scott Russell Sanders, Cameron Scott, Naomi Shihab Nye, Luis Alberto Urrea, and more to be announced. Cost: $795.

Tin House Summer Workshop. July 10-17, 2016, Portland, Oregon. Workshops with afternoon craft seminars and career panels. Evenings are reserved for author readings and revelry. Tin House editors and guest agents are available to meet individually with students throughout the week. Faculty: Aimee Bender, Natalie Diaz, Anthony Doerr, Danielle Evans, Joshua Ferris, Renee Gladman, Manuel Gonzales, James Hannaham, Naomi Jackson Mat Johnson, Kelly Link, Paul Lisicky, Morgan Parker Roger Reeves, Mary Ruefle, Karen Shepard, Jim Shepard, Claire Waye Watkins, and more. Cost: $1200. Application deadline: May 1, 2017.
ThrillerFest XII. July 11–15, 2017, New York City. This is the annual conference of the International Thriller Writers. The ThrillerFest conference has four main components: Master CraftFest, CraftFest, PitchFest, and ThrillerFest. Master CraftFest was designed as an educational tool for aspiring writers as well as debut and midlist authors to gain advanced training from the masters of the craft in an intimate, day-long training session. CraftFest was designed for all writers to learn from bestselling authors and subject experts who kindly offer their advice and assistance to advance attendees’ writing techniques and further their careers. PitchFest was designed to match writers with agents, editors, publishers, and producers. ThrillerFest, the final two days of the conference, is intended to offer readers a chance to meet the best authors in the industry and be introduced to debut and midlist authors. Expect innovative panels, spotlight interviews, and workshops to educate and inspire.

Oregon Coast Children's Book Writers Workshop. Canceled for 2017. Will return in 2018. July 11 - 15, 2016, Oceanside, Oregon. An intensive workshop for those who are not only passionate about children's book writing, but who dream of publishing their own children's books. Getting attendees published is the end goal. The instructors are five professional children's book authors, two children's book editors from major publishing houses, and a full-time children's book agent. Students can have at least one major manuscript consult per day, and possibly more.

Southampton Writers Conference. July 12–23, 2017, Long Island, NY. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and publishing, as well as readings, lectures, and a master class series. Creative writing workshops are the heart and soul of the summer experience, meeting four afternoons or mornings throughout the session. Enrollment is limited to 13 lucky writers who have applied with writing samples. Those accepted have the privilege of sharing their work in an intimate, rigorous and friendly setting. Workshop Applications: Rolling admission after April 1, where space available.

Green River Writers Workshops:Turning Memory into Story: Memoir Writing Workshop. July 13 - 16, 2017, Las Vegas, New Mexico. Using memory as a starting point, Green River Writers Workshops focus on the craft of storytelling through memoir, fiction, historical writing, and poetry. Both experienced and beginning writers are welcome.

Saskatchewan Festival of Words. July 13 - 16, 2017, Moose Jaw, Canada. Over the 4 days of the festival there are workshops for all ages, reading sessions, concerts, film, panel discussions, interviews, music, theatre, a slam poetry competition as well as workshops and author readings.

Write Time Black Writers Retreat. July 14 - 16, 2017, Palm Springs, California. "Designed for fiction and nonfiction writers and set amidst tranquil mountains surrounding an invigorating desert oasis, this affordable workshop will inspire and enlighten you. Head home with clearer direction and progress on your writing, energized from spending time with a community of dedicated writers, immersed in the literary life." Registration deadline: June 20.

The Gathering. July 14 - 16, 2017, La Plume, Pennsylvania. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as lectures and performances. "Each year The Gathering is structured around a theme that relates everyday experiences to broader issues. The purpose of The Gathering is to promote understanding and empathy to bridge cultural, social, and economic gaps. Lecturers include authors, poets, scientists, philosophers, musicians, performers, and artists who help shape contemporary thought in their field. A reading list gets us thinking ahead of time about the issues we’ll be immersed in at The Gathering. Our presenters have included Salman Rushdie, Gregory Maguire, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Diane Ackerman, Chris Abani, Susan Jacoby, Katherine Paterson, Peter Bohlin, Nancy Willard, Victor Navasky, Sandy Tolan, and many others. Their availability for conversation during meals and breaks and at social gatherings offers important opportunities for participants to gain new insights into the speakers’ work."

The Summer Writers Institute. July 14 - 28, 2017, St. Louis, Missouri. The Washington University Summer Writers Institute is an intensive, two-week program featuring workshops in fiction, micro fiction, modern humor, personal narrative, playwriting, and poetry, as well as reading and individual conferences with instructors. Adult writers of all levels of experience work together with published authors and exceptional teachers in a supportive, non-competitive format that allows for personalized attention and constructive feedback.

All Write Now! Writers' Conference. July 15 - 16, 2017, Cape Girardeau, Missouri. A one day writers conference with workshops, pitches, in-person critique sessions, Slush Pile, contests, bookstore, lunch and prizes. One day of master classes.
Port Townsend Writers’ Conference. July 16 - 23, 2017, Port Townsend, Washington. workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft lectures, readings, open mics, and time to write. "The Port Townsend Writers’ Conference has been since 1974 at the wild heart of the thriving Pacific Northwest literary scene. With a focus on community and rigorous attention to craft, the Conference offers morning workshops, afternoon workshops, residencies, guided freewrites, and a vibrant readings and lectures series presented by vital, contemporary writers."

Sewanee Writers’ Conference. July 18-30, 2017: Sewanee, TN. Faculty will give readings and provide instruction and criticism through workshops and craft lectures, as well as meet individually with participants to discuss their manuscripts. The Conference will offer five fiction workshops, four poetry workshops, and a playwriting workshop supported by two professional actors. In addition, a substantial number of literary agents will attend. Deadline: April 17, 2017.

Writing the Rockies. July 19 - 23, 2017: Gunnison, Colorado. Workshops, readings, panels, seminars and other events in poetry, genre fiction, screenwriting and publishing. One-to-one visits with faculty for critiques & pitches. Sponsored by Graduate Program in Creative Writing, Western State Colorado University.

Midwest Writers Workshop. July 20 - 22, 2017, Muncie, Indiana. Craft and business sessions, agent pitches, manuscript evaluations. MWW includes quality instruction by a faculty of authors, agents, editors, and specialists.
Fresh Water, Fresh Voices Writing Conference. July 20 - 23, 2017: Marquette, MI. Features writing workshops with talented published authors in tandem with outdoor activities including hiking, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and biking. Half of each day will be spent in workshops and craft talks, and the other half in guided group outings on the trails and lake. Evenings will be spent listening to readings and communing with writers over dinner and cocktails. Workshops will be led by outstanding published writers including Pam Houston, Diane Les Becquets, Frank X Walker, Mark Sundeen, Nicole Walker, Peter Geye, Kimberly Blaeser, and others.

PNWA Conference. July 20 - 23, 2017, Seattle, Washington, Sponsored by the Pacific Northwest Writers Association. More than 50 seminars, editor/agent forums & appointments, practice pitching, keynote and featured speakers, reception, awards ceremony. Many agents and editors attending.

Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference. July 21 - 23, 2017, Grapevine, Texas. The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference is a forum for journalists, writers, readers, students, educators and the general public to listen to, be inspired by and practice their craft at the highest possible level. Every year, the Mayborn Conference gathers some of the most talented storytellers in the country to share their stories, life-changing experiences and expertise with aspiring writers through three days of lectures, panels, one-on-one sessions, and student classes. In addition, the conference includes a variety of writing contests for anyone from high school students to Pulitzer prize winning professionals, who receive hand-made trophies, more than $26,000 in cash awards and have their work published in Mayborn's journal, Ten Spurs, or anthology, Best American Newspaper Narratives.

Gemini Ink Writers Conference. July 21 - 23, 2017: San Antonio, Texas. In this moment of social and historic flux, Gemini Ink’s Writers Conference will contemplate the role writing can play in reflecting and driving social, aesthetic and personal change. Participate in panels, roundtables, workshops, and readings. Engage in dynamic conversations on writing as an agent for change.

Tennessee Writers Conference. July 22, 2017, Nashville, TN. This is a full-day “How to Get Published” writing event. This event is designed to squeeze as much into one day of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. Attending agents: Lauren MacLeod (The Strothman Agency), Mark Gottlieb (Trident Media Group), Kimberly Brower (Brower Literary & Management), Elizabeth Copps (Maria Carvainis Agency, Inc.), Beth Phelan (The Bent Agency), Greg Daniel (Daniel Literary Group), Julie Gwinn (The Seymour Agency), Michael Caligaris (Holloway Literary Agency), Alice Speilburg (Speilburg Literary), Cate Hart (Corvisiero Literary), Laura Crockett (Triada US Literary), Lesley Sabga (The Seymour Agency), and more.

Napa Valley Writers’ Conference. July 23 - July 28, 2017, St. Helena, California. Workshops in poetry and fiction, craft lectures, panels, and evening readings with wine receptions at venues around Napa Valley. Faculty in poetry, Eavan Boland, Jane Hirshfield, Ada Limón, and Matthew Zapruder; in fiction, Lan Samantha Chang, Peter Ho Davies, Daniel Orozco, and ZZ Packer.

Green Mountain Writers Conference. July 24 - 28, 2017, Chittenden, Vermont. The program features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as one-on-one consultations, lectures, publishing discussions, and readings. The faculty includes Yvonne Daley, Elizabeth Innes-Brown, Justen Ahren , Major Jackson, Chuck Clarino, Verandah Porche, Patty Carpenter and Elizabeth Rosner.

Romance Writers of America. July 26-29, 2017, Orlando, Florida. The RWA Conference is the place where career-focused romance writers meet, mingle, and get down to the business of being an author. RWA2017 Conference highlights include the “Readers for Life” Literacy Autographing; the Keynote speech; hearing from great speakers; book signings; and the Awards Ceremony. At the conference, career-focused romance writers can anticipate: education and information, networking with fellow writers, interaction with editors, agents, publishers, booksellers, and other romance publishing industry professionals.

Bookstock Literary Festival. July 28 - July 30, 2017: Woodstock, Vermont. From Poets & Writers: "The festival features workshops, readings, discussions, and a book fair for poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. Participating writers include poets Benjamin Aleshire, Laura Foley, Pamela Harrison, April Ossmann, and Elizabeth Powell; fiction writers Jean Hanff Korenlitz and Roland Merullo; and nonfiction writers Jabari Asim, Bruce Coffin, and Sarah Prager. All events and workshops are free and open to the public."
When the Political Becomes Personal. July 29, 2017: Hammonton, NJ. "Are you eager to contribute to the political conversation? Take advantage of our supportive atmosphere as a safe space to write a provocative personal essay worthy of submitting to the Op-Ed editors of major publications. Whether you lean left or right—or stand smack dab in the middle—this invigorating workshop will help you transform your fiery arguments into an eloquent and persuasive, thought-provoking piece."

Pennsylvania Writers Conference. July 30 - August 5, 2017: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. PWC includes workshops in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and screenwriting. The conference will offer pitch sessions with agents, as well as certificate programs in publishing and arts advocacy and education.

Marlboro Summer Writing Intensive. July 30 - August 5, 2017: Marlboro, VT. Over the course of seven days, you will join a group of writers—professional writers, professors and other students interested in honing their craft. You will participate in workshops during the day, and in the evenings you will write, talk and connect with other writers. You will live in a dorm on Marlboro’s beautiful southern Vermont campus in the company of other program participants. Meals are included and served in the dormitory.