2026 SEP Workshops & Conferences

10th Annual Broadleaf Writers Conference

September 19-20, 2026: The 11th Annual Broadleaf Writers Conference will return to the Decatur Library in Decatur, Georgia on September 19-20, 2026,  Once again, we’ll bring you two days of panels, workshops, pitch and mentoring sessions, a First Page Critique, offer you the chance to have your first 10 pages critiqued, and give you plenty of time to commune and get to know your fellow attendees and our speakers! For more information, stay connected with us, sign up for our newsletter, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and sign up today to join us next year,  Our schedule of sessions goes live on June 1st!
https://broadleafwriters.com/11th-annual-broadleaf-writers-conference/

49 Writers Tutka Bay Retreat

Classes & Workshops
Some say good writing can’t be taught. We disagree. While instruction alone won’t make you a great writer, it will take you a long way in that direction. At the heart of our mission is a firm commitment to quality creative writing instruction that encourages you to become more thoughtful and proficient as you explore your passion for the written word.
Upcoming Events:  https://49writers.org/events/
█ https://49writers.org/classes-workshops/

AWP Conference & Bookfair

2027 Accepted Events
This list of accepted events for the 2027 AWP Conference & Bookfair is tentative as we wait to receive confirmation from all event organizers and participants. We are also working to ensure that each participant does not participate in more than two events. The full conference schedule will be posted later this year.  A plain-text version of the 2027 accepted events list is available as a PDF document and as a word document.
https://conference.awpwriter.org/Conference_Schedule_Events.cfm

A Public Space’s Weekend Writers’ Retreat

• ANNIE COGGAN 10-24-2026
  Drawing Stories
  Join artist and designer Annie Coggan for a one-session workshop about visualizing spaces and how the techniques and perspectives of an architectural drawing can help bring to life a fictional world. We will look at passages from Edith Wharton, Henry James and other writers who describe interior spaces. Through creating our own series of freehand architectural drawings, we will explore how to visualize and interpret the spaces our characters inhabit and capture them on the page.
  https://apublicspace.org/academy/annie-coggan-fall-2026
• ANNE ELLIOTT 10-18 THRU 11-22,2026
  Ekphrasis—the literary response to visual art—often takes the form of poetry, but this class will be geared toward generating narrative. Participants will receive prompts in the form of specific artworks (to be viewed online) and methods for translating the art into fiction, memoir, or other narrative forms. These exercises will be followed by analysis of published texts created in response to the same artworks. Techniques will include imagining an instance of seeing the work, imagining the life of the work’s subject or artist, letting the work trigger associations and memories, acknowledging the work’s historical context, or facing the abstract with the concrete. Visual artists used likely to include Jennifer Bartlett, Gerhard Richter, Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse, Jacob Lawrence, Yves Klein, Frida Kahlo, Liu Xiaodong, Kerry James Marshall, or Helen Frankenthaler. Writers studied likely to include Deborah Eisenberg, Don DeLillo, John Keene, A. S. Byatt, Tyehimba Jess, John Yau, or Ali Smith.
  https://apublicspace.org/academy/anne-elliott-fall-2026

The Alabama Writers’ Conclave

View the 2026 Events List.

Saturday, November 7
The Great Big Book Festival at Downtown Huntsville Public Library – 9 am to 5 pm – The GBBF features a robust lineup of free programming, including an author panel, book signings, and a selection of bookish vendors. Be sure to join us for our ticketed keynote event with best-selling author Ariel Lawhon, discussing her acclaimed novel “The Pirate Queen”, at 3:00 p.m.
https://alabamawriterscooperative.org/2026-alabama-events

The Algonkian Writer Retreat and Novel Workshop

Best Little Novel Workshop Retreat in the East – March 18 – 22, 2026
This workshop retreat takes place at Algonkian Park in Virginia–a pristine and rather enormous expanse of state park beside the Potomac River, yet only minutes from quality restaurants and shopping in Sterling. The local wildlife and deer families, the many hiking trails, and scenic walks along the river, all combine to provide you with an environment conducive to creativity and productive writing.
█  http://algonkianconferences.com/AlgonkianWriterRetreat/

The 2026 Aspen Literary Festival

2026 Dates: September 25-27 – More information has been added.  Speakers Lineup Added.
For 50 years, Aspen Words has curated and executed exceptional literary events for readers and writers of all ages— shaping the cultural conversation, nurturing emerging talent, and captivating both luminaries and audiences alike.
https://www.aspenliteraryfestival.org/

Association of Writers & Writing Programs  

Writer’s Calendar of Events – Listed by Month
https://awpwriter.org/AWP/AWP/Search/WO-Event-List.aspx

Author Media

Announcing the 2026 Novel Marketing Conference – A couple of years ago, I set out to create something special. I wanted to create a writers conference that wasn’t focused on learning how to write a book but instead focused on how to sell the book, and the Novel Marketing Conference was born. I’ve been speaking at writers’ events for fifteen years. I’ve spoken to writers all around the world. During those years, I had a lot of ideas.
█  https://www.authormedia.com/announcing-the-2026-novel-marketing-conference/

Brooklyn Book Festival

• Festival Day & Literary Marketplace – Brooklyn Borough Hall and surrounding venues
  Sunday, September 27, 2026 – 10am – 6pm
• Children’s Day – Brooklyn Borough Hall (209 Joralemon St.)
  Saturday, September 26, 2026 – 10am – 4pm
• Virtual Festival Day
  September 20, 2026 – 1pm – 6pm
• Bookends
  September 20, 2026 — September 28, 2026
  Locations in all 5 boroughs
  http://www.brooklynbookfestival.org/

Central Coast Writers’ Conference

September 25-26, 2025: We are excited to announce our Cuesta College Central Coast Writers’ Conference returns again this year in a two-day format with a theme of Say Yes! Join us at the college’s San Luis Obispo campus on Friday and Saturday, September 25 & 26, 2026 as we celebrate 42 years of bringing writers of all backgrounds and experience levels together. It’s no surprise CCWC was named the “Best Conference in the West” by Writers Magazine, as our organizers and volunteers work together to ensure attendees enjoy insightful dialogue, networking opportunities, and unrivaled access to an esteemed staff of presenters.
https://www.cuesta.edu/writers-conference/

Nancy Christi

Writing Conferences and Workshops – Why go to writing conferences or retreats?
Attending writing conferences will not only educate you about the craft and business of writing but also give you a chance to socialize with others who write for love or money—or both!  Click on the following links for information about upcoming conferences.
Listed by Date
https://www.nancychristie.com/reference/writing-conferences/

Creatures, Crimes & Creativity CON

September 18-20, 2026: Doubletree Hilton Hotel Columbia MD. A writer’s and fan’s conference for genre fiction covering mystery, suspense, thriller, sci-fi, fantasy, steampunk & horror. Our purpose is to gather readers and writers of genre fiction–mystery, suspense, thriller, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and paranormal – to meet in an informal atmosphere so that everyone can have fun connecting, and learning about writing, the authors and their books. The conference offers panels on the craft and business of writing as well as panels tailored to engage and entertain fans. The registration fee includes Friday’s dinner, 3 meals Saturday and Sunday breakfast, so readers and writers dine side-by-side. Plus: keynote addresses, author interviews, an onsite bookstore, two giant book signings and readings open to the public.
https://creaturescrimesandcreativity.com/

Boyds Mills

From Idea & Sketch to Dummy & Submission: An Author/Illustrator Online Course
September 2 – October 7, 2026: Online. If you are illustrating AND writing your own book, and wondering how to prepare your submission, this is the course for you. You will focus on the craft of writing and illustrating a picture book with an intense level of feedback from faculty Courtney Pippin-Mathur and special guests, Natasha Khan Kazi and Aram Kim. Participants who complete all assignments should be able to finish or revise a working dummy (mocked up book) in its entirety during the course, preparing for submission to editors, agents, or art directors. 24 participants max.
https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/workshop/from-idea-and-sketch-to-dummy-and-submission/

Futurescapes

First 10 Submission Workshop
Designed for speculative fiction writers preparing to query. Offers:
– Professional-level critique on your first 10 pages
– Guidance on synopsis and query materials
– Small cohort mentorship
Applications Open Oct. 1
https://futurescapes.ink/

Georgia Romance Writers: Moonlight and Magnolias

Get ready to enter ‘Your Writer Era’ with Georgia Romance Writers!  Join us for an aspiring, interactive, fun weekend of celebrating the love of writing romance! We are set to begin October 15-17th, 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta, NE Norcross! Network, pitch to editors and agents, attend 40+ workshops, hear from VIP Speakers Naima Simone, Anna Grace and Lauren Connolly and immerse yourself in being with ‘your people’. Won’t you step into your Writing Era with us this year?
https://www.garomancewriters.org/moonlight-and-magnolias

Hedgebrook Women Authoring Change

Hedgebrook is a global community of women writers and people who seek extraordinary books, poetry, plays, films and music by women. A literary nonprofit, our mission is to support visionary women writers whose stories and ideas shape our culture now and for generations to come. We offer writing residencies, convenings, and paid stays at our retreat on Whidbey Island, and public programs that connect writers with readers and audiences around the world.
https://www.hedgebrook.org/public-events

Highlights Foundation

Whether you’re just starting out, or continuing to navigate the complexities of the children’s publishing industry—if you believe in the power of story for kids, we’re glad you’re here. Featuring In-person Programs, Online Courses, On-Demand (Self-paced online), The Whole Novel Workshop, Summer Camp, Free #HFGather Webinars.
https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/learn-more-about-our-programs/

Upcoming Workshops
Explore 2026 Workshops – Our 2026 in-person and winter online workshops are live now! Additional online workshops will be added in the coming weeks and throughout the year.
https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/upcoming-workshops/

Inkubator Writing Conference

The 2026 Inkubator will be held September 11-12 at the Cleveland Public Library.
Literary Cleveland’s Inkubator Writing Conference is one of the largest free writing conferences in the country, providing workshops, craft talks, panel discussions, readings, and more to empower writers, celebrate literary excellence, and amplify diverse voices.
https://inkubator.litcleveland.org/

Kotobee Blog

Must‑Attend Writing Conferences in 2026 Around the World  –  As a writer, you can attend helpful seminars and workshops that improve your skills, while meeting other writers and connecting with people who share your passion for writing. To help you along the way, we have gathered for you the best writers’ conferences and workshops in 2026. You can use our filtering tool to find the ones that best suit your needs.  Regularly Updated.
https://blog.kotobee.com/writing-conferences-2026/

Medium

Writing Conferences and Workshops in 2026 –  This May there are more than three dozen writing conferences and workshops. Some conferences and workshops will be held online, but most will be held in person or use a hybrid format.

These writing events offer everything a writer might want: intensive workshops, pitch sessions with agents, how to market your books, discussions — there is something for everyone.
https://medium.com/tag/conference

Midwest Writers Workshop

MWW’s primary goal is to nurture aspiring and accomplished writers to improve their craft and achieve their writing and publishing goals in an inclusive community that welcomes and uplifts all voices. At our annual hybrid summer conference, you’ll find a thriving and lively community eager to welcome new faces and catch up with old writer friends from across the Midwest–and beyond! We offer sessions and panels covering a wide array of genres, topics, and approaches to craft, all led by top-notch faculty.  Join us this July 16 – 18, 2026 at the Ball State Student Center in Muncie, Indiana—or virtually, from the comfort of your own computer—and see for yourself the wonderful things MWW has to offer! (Then see it again on the recordings, available for 90 days following the event)
█  https://www.midwestwriters.org/mww26-summer-conference/

Mountfort Writing

2026 Best Writing Conferences
Writing conferences are professional gatherings of writers over 1-3 days. Like many other pro conferences, these meetings feature panels, socializing, and a keynote speech. I chose some of the best writing conferences available in 2026 across the United States for genre diversity, years in existence, and recognition across the field.
Listed by Month
https://www.mountfordwriting.com/writing-advice/writingconferences

Nebula Conference

The 2027 SFWA Nebula Conference
The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA) is excited to announce that the 62nd Annual Nebula Awards Conference will be held in Seattle, Washington in June 2027.

If you just joined us for our 61st Nebula Awards Conference in Chicago, Illinois, thank you for making the weekend so special for us. Conference exit surveys will be sent out shortly, so that you can help us shape our road to Seattle from Day 1.

Early-bird ticket sales also do wonders for making great conversations possible. Lock in the full conference a discounted rate of $250 for your ticket by the end of June, and help us launch this next year’s program in style!
https://nebulas.sfwa.org/nebula-conference/

NYC Write to Pitch Conference

NYC LIVE SEPT. 24 – 27, 2026
NYWP 2026 APPLICATION
PUBLICATION HISTORY
BOOK CONTRACTS
REVIEWS AND INTERVIEWS
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

Okoboji Writers’ Retreat

September 28 -30, 2026: West Lake, IA. The annual Okoboji Writers’ Retreat, founded in 2021, is open to all skill levels. Columnist Julie Gammack is the producer. Over 30 faculty resources will be on hand to work with participants in small-group settings. Whether you come to find out how to get started or land a book deal, this retreat is a welcoming event for all.
https://okobojiwritersretreat.com/

Pittsburgh Writing Workshop

Pittsburgh Writing Workshop:
November 14, 2026
In-Person Writers Conference
https://writingdayworkshopsevents.com/pittsburgh/

PNWA (Pacific Northwest Writers) Conference

2026 Fall Conference – September 10-30, 2026  More opportunities to pitch to agents and editors, more workshops, more master classes.
https://www.pnwa.org/event/PNWA2026
List of Workshops
https://www.pnwa.org/page/workshops

Poets & Writers

Conferences and Residencies Database
Looking to meet up with agents and editors? To join a supportive writing community? Or to find the perfect environment to fuel your writing practice? The Conferences & Residencies database includes details about over two hundred writing conferences, writers residencies, and literary festivals.
https://www.pw.org/conferences_and_residencies

Prolific Writers Life

The Best 2026 In-Person Writing Conferences Worth Your Time – Writing conferences are a fun way to learn new skills and connect with fellow writers. Conferences happen year-round and in many locations, so think about where you might be throughout the year. You can use a conference as a chance to visit family or reconnect with friends while investing in your writing. Don’t assume the nearest conference is your best option—take time to explore the variety available.
Listed By Month
https://prolificwriters.life/the-best-2026-in-person-writing-conferences-worth-your-time/

Published to Death Writing Conferences

2026 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. All of these conferences and workshops charge tuition, but some offer financial assistance. There are deadlines for applying for aid, so make sure you apply early.
https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/writers-conferences.html

Ready Chapter 1

Literary Agent Summit March 28, 2026 – This event is for writers with a finished or near-finished manuscript ready to query agents and editors. Get live agent feedback, insider workshops, and limited 1-on-1 critique slots at our virtual Agent Summit.  Registration opens March 1. Critique slots are limited and always sell out.  Get early access to agent selection and pre-conference pricing (save $100+).
Bonus! Join our waitlist to download the Writers Roadmap for free. This ebook guide walks through every step in the publishing process from your big idea to your first book deal.
█  https://readychapter1.com/literary-agent-summit-2026-a-readerful-pitch-and-pages-event/

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers
Colorado Gold Writers Conference

October 1–4, 2026: Aurora, CO. An intensive three days of workshops, presenters, agents, master classes, intensives, and more!
https://www.rmfw.org/conference_homepage.php

Romance Writers of America Chapter Workshops & Webinars

SEPTEMBER 2026

Chapter: Hearts Through History Romance Writers
Workshop Title: Plotting Your Novel the Screenplay Way
Presenter: Susan Palmquist
Dates: Monday, September 7, 2026 – Friday, October 2, 2026
Time: 4-Weeks
Location: Online
Registration: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/portal/course/plotting-novel-screenplay-way/lessons
Rates: $20 Chapter Member / $30 Non Chapter Member

Chapter: Hearts Through History Romance Writers
Workshop Title: Unusual Pastimes (Regency England)
Presenter: Shannon Donnelly
Dates: Monday, September 7, 2026 – Friday, October 2, 2026
Time: 4-Weeks
Location: Online
Registration: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/portal/admin/manage-courses/edit/71/lessons
Rates: $20 Chapter Member / $30 Non Chapter Member

Chapter: Hearts Through History Romance Writers
Webinar Title: Crafting Romantic Couples
Presenter: Jacquelin Cangro
Dates: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM Eastern Time
Location:
Registration: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/portal/course/crafting-romantic-couples/lessons
Rates: $10 Chapter Member / $15 Non Chapter Member

OCTOBER 2026

Chapter: Hearts Through History Romance Writers
Workshop Title: Use Write-a-Novel-in-30-Days Fundamentals to Support Your Writing Journey
Presenter: Leslie J. Hall
Dates: Monday, October 5, 2026 – Friday, October 30, 2026
Time: 4-Weeks
Location: Online
Registration: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/portal/course/write-novel-30-days-fundamentals/lessons
Rates: $20 Chapter Member / $30 Non Chapter Member

Chapter: Hearts Through History Romance Writers
Workshop Title: BookFunnel 101
Presenter: Danielle Grandinetti
Dates: Monday, October 5, 2026 – Friday, October 16, 2026
Time: 2-Weeks
Location: Online
Registration: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/portal/course/bookfunnel-101/lessons
Rates: $10 Chapter Member / $15 Non Chapter Member

Chapter: Hearts Through History Romance Writers
Webinar Title: Achieve Success: Tips for Working With Your Neurodivergent Brain
Presenter: Dayna M. Reidenouer
Dates: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM Eastern
Location:
Registration: https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/portal/course/tips-working-with-your-neurodivergent-brain/lessons
Rates: $10 Chapter Member / $15 Non Chapter Member

• Chapter Conferences
• Online Chapter Workshops

Seattle Writing Workshop

After many successful past events in Seattle, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2026 Seattle Writing Workshop — a full-day in-person “How to Get Published” writing event in Seattle, WA on May 9, 2026.

This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited seats at the event (200 total). All questions about the event regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Seattle Writing Workshop! We are very proud of our many success stories where attendees sign with agents following events — see our growing list of success stories here.
█  https://theseattlewritingworkshop.com/

Six Bridges Book Festival

This year marks the 22nd Six Bridges Book Festival, a celebration that has become both a Central Arkansas tradition and a gathering beloved by authors and readers alike. It also marks a special homecoming: after nearly two years of renovation, the Main Library once again becomes the heart of the festival. This year’s festival will be a week of celebration, beginning on Sunday, September 28th, and building toward our much-anticipated Kickoff Party in the newly reopened library on Friday, October 3rd, with many festival sessions to follow there on Saturday, October 4th

September 27 – October 4, 2026: Little Rock, Arkansas. “Prestigious award-winners, screenwriters, comedians, an expert witness, artists, and a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet are among the diverse roster of presenters who will be providing sessions.” Free.  Author Submissions Open – Spring Speaker Series List
https://cals.org/six-bridges-book-festival/

Travel & Words: Northwest Travel Writers Conference

September 28-30, 2026 Skagit Valley, Washington:  TRAVEL & WORDS offers a multi-faceted conference for travel journalists interested in exploring Northwest destinations. The primary focus of the conference is to connect journalists with destinations throughout the Northwest.  The primary focus of the Travel & Words conferences is to build productive connections between travel journalists and destination marketers. This takes the form of scheduled one-on-one meetings as well as plenty of casual networking opportunities. In addition, the program includes presentations by tourism experts, workshops and hosted evening receptions.
https://travelwritersconference.com/

VCFA.edu a Cal Arts Affiliate

The 2026 VCFA Writers’ Conference at CalArts: An Intensive for Serious Writers. One-week immersive conference, August 8-14, 2026 – The 2026 VCFA Writers’ Conference builds on the rich tradition of the beloved Postgraduate Writers’ Conference, carrying its spirit forward to a new creative home at California Institute of the Arts in Valencia, California.  For more than thirty years, the conference has served as a haven for writers seeking connection, renewal, and meaningful growth in their process and craft. The conference brings together new voices and writers deeply engaged in long-term creative practice, creating a space where different levels of experience work side by side in a shared spirit of artistic seriousness and curiosity.

OFFERING A $100 DISCOUNT TO WRITING CORNER READERS:  “Your readers can enter the promo code WRITINGCORNER100 for the $100 discount. Here is the registration link and the conference website.”
https://www.vcfa.edu/sections/vcfa-writers-conference

Erica Verrillo

30 Great Writing Conferences and Workshops in SEPTEMBER 2026 –  This July there are more than two dozen writing conferences and workshops. Some conferences and workshops will be held online, but most will be held in person or use a hybrid format.  These writing events offer everything a writer might want: intensive workshops, pitch sessions with agents, how to market your books, discussions – there is something for everyone.  I have included conferences with deadlines that have already passed on this list to give you advance notice. If you miss an application deadline, put it on your calendar for next year. Quite a few conferences offer scholarships, so apply early. Plan ahead!
https://ericaverrillo.com/blog/30-spectacular-writing-conferences-and-workshops-in-september-2026

Westport Writing Workshops

A nice list of workshops for writers.
https://westportwriters.org/workshops/

Westwind Communications

The Top Writers’ Conferences for 2026 by Book Publicist Scott Lorenz – Westwind Communications – If you are a serious writer with high aspirations, then you’ll want to go to a writers’ conference. Want to meet authors and exchange ideas, tips and techniques? Then sign up for a writer’s conference today.A writers’ conference is a think tank for authors to build on each other’s ideas and inspire new achievements in their own work. For the cost of lodging and registration, the payoff for attending a writers’ conference could be tremendous.
https://book-publicist.com/the-top-writers-conferences-for-2026-by-book-publicist-scott-lorenz/

Wintering With Women Writing the West

January, February and March, 2026 – In 2026, Women Writing the West will bring back the popular Wintering With WWW Speakers Series. The Zoom meetings will take place on the third Wednesday of January, February and March for a time to learn, ask questions, visit and have some fun. Meetings will start at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. Each featured presenter will speak for approximately one hour, including time for Q & A. The meeting will stay open for an additional 30 minutes (a total of 1 1/2 hours), so we can socialize, share ideas and banish that Cabin Fever!
█  https://www.womenwritingthewest.org/education/

Write on the Sound Writers’ Conference and Pre-Conference

October 2-4, 2026 –  Edmonds, WA. Founded in 1985, Write on the Sound writers’ conference (WOTS) is a small, affordable conference focused on the craft of writing. A variety of sessions, workshops and panel discussions are available for all levels and interests, including valuable information regarding today’s writing and publishing industry.
https://www.edmondswa.gov/cms/One.aspx?portalId=16495016&pageId=19108995

The Writer’s Center Workshops

The Writer’s Center offers hundreds of writing workshops and classes every year. Workshops cover all genres and all experience levels. Join us in person and online.
https://writer.org/workshops/

Writing and Publishing Books for Young Readers

Murphy Writing Stockton University – Filled. Wait list available. Sign up for our email list to be notified about future dates and our other writing retreats. Join us for this five-week online writing workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
https://murphywriting.com/workshops/writing-and-publishing-books-for-young-readers-online-workshop/

Writing Day Workshops

Touring the United States year-round.  Check back regularly as new locations are added every month.

https://www.writingdayworkshops.com/event-locations–dates.html

Writing On The Door: Washington Island Literary Festival

Thursday, September 17, noon – 3 pm: FREE Community Creative Lab
Thursday’s Creative Lab is free; no registration required. Open to all! Trueblood Performing Arts Center, 870 Main Road

Friday, September 18: Writing Workshops, Poetry Walk, & Opening Reception. Various locations.

Saturday, September 19: For Readers & Writers: Author Talks
https://writeondoorcounty.org/2025-washington-island-literary-festival-2/