Writing Conferences, Workshops, Festivals & Retreats to Attend in 2026
/The new year is rapidly approaching, and if you have resolutions for 2026, establishing a writing routine—or continuing a routine you may have abandoned—is likely one of them. But in addition, why not consider a writing-adjacent resolution, such as attending conferences, workshops, or other writing events?
I’ve always encouraged such events, mainly because they provide writers with the opportunity to learn from industry experts and make new connections. Although some of the events listed below are on the expensive side, others are more affordable. And several are being held online if you’re unable to travel. You may be surprised by how much you can gain by attending, in-person or virtually!
Inked Voices Intensive: Go Big! Creating Fiction That's Both Timely and Timeless (virtual) – Jan 7-14
“Join us for a 2-part intensive on creating timeless fiction, led by writing coach and author Lorin Oberweger. We'll explore how to create a work that's not just fit for publication, but that will stand the test of time.” Note: Inked Voices holds online events throughout the year. See their 2026 schedule.
Writer's Digest: How to Get Published - Land a Book Deal in 2026 with Jane Friedman (virtual) – Jan 8
“If you want to get your book traditionally published in 2026… increase your chances by knowing how to evaluate the commercial potential of your work.” Note: For additional classes Jane is teaching with Writer’s Digest, other partner organizations, and her own media company, see this link.
SCBWI Winter Conference (NY, NY) – Jan 16-18
“Our annual Winter Conference for children's book writers, translators, and illustrators is back with even more options for exploring the many facets of the craft and business of illustrating, translating, and writing books for kids.” Note: A virtual SCBWI conference is scheduled for February, but the date hasn’t yet been announced.
Highlights Foundation: Successful Strategies for Submitting Your Manuscript to Agents and Editors (virtual) – Jan 27-29
Children’s book writers: “How do you know when you are ready to submit your manuscript? Editor Harold Underdown will answer this question and share submission strategies and resources.” Note: Highlights holds online and in-person workshops (in Boyd Mills, PA) throughout the year. See their 2026 schedule.
The Shit No One Tells You About Writing: Deep Dive Virtual Retreat 2026 (virtual) – Jan 31-Feb 1
“We have 13 incredible speakers lined up for our very last Deep Dive Virtual Retreat, 12 of whom are either literary agents or editors… looking forward to sharing their wealth of knowledge and experience with you as you navigate your publishing journey.”
Writer’s Digest Novel Writing Virtual Conference (virtual) – Jan 31-Feb 1
“Experience the education, camaraderie, and opportunities provided by a live writing conference without ever having to leave your home!” Note: Writer’s Digest holds genre-specific conferences throughout the year, including one on historical fiction conference in a couple of weeks.
San Diego Writing Workshop (virtual) – Feb 6-7
“This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of two days, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more.” Note: Writing Day workshops are held throughout the year across the country and online. See their 2026 schedule.
San Francisco Writers Conference (San Francisco, CA) – Feb 12-15
“Immerse yourself in over 20 years of rich literary culture. We're dedicated to empowering writers by creating opportunities for meaningful connections with publishers, editors, agents, and more.” Note: The 2026 keynote speaker for the 22nd annual conference is Raina Telgemeier.
Big Sur Children’s Writing Workshop (Big Sur, CA) – Feb 20-22
This “exclusive workshop for serious children’s book writers” is organized by Andrea Brown Literary Agency, “long recognized as one of the top agencies for children’s book writers and illustrators. This popular workshop fills quickly.”
31st Annual Writer's Symposium by the Sea (Point Loma, CA) – Feb 23-27
“Join us for captivating conversations on the topic of Writing Across the Divide with award winning broadcast journalist Judy Woodruff and groundbreaking writers Jamaica Kincaid and George Saunders.” Note: Each guest is interviewed, and “the audience is invited to actively listen in.”
AWP Conference & Bookfair (Baltimore, MD) – March 4-7
“Join thousands of writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers at… the premier annual gathering of the literary community. With hundreds of events and exhibitors, four days of connection, inspiration, and celebration await you in Baltimore!”
Charlotte Huck Children’s Literature Festival (Redlands, CA) – March 6-7
“Each year, the festival brings together educators, librarians, parents, students, authors, illustrators, editors, and those interested in children’s literature for a unique combination of full conference and small group sessions.” Note: 2026 festival speakers include Loren Long and Lisa Yee.
Atlanta Writer Club Self-Publishing Conference (Atlanta, GA) – March 28
“Dedicated to serving self-published authors, those curious about self-publishing, and the independent publishing market,” the 2026 conference features bestselling self-published authors who “will focus on the most difficult parts of being an indie author: how to build your audience and sell more books.”
