A multi-day event where writers gather for panels, workshops, pitch sessions, and networking with agents, editors, and other authors.
A writing conference is an organized event, usually lasting two to five days, that brings together writers at all levels with publishing professionals, established authors, and educators. Conferences typically feature a mix of craft workshops, panel discussions on industry topics, keynote speeches, and opportunities to pitch your work directly to literary agents or editors. Some conferences focus on a specific genre like romance or science fiction, while others cover the full spectrum of fiction and nonfiction.
Writing is solitary, but publishing is social. A conference is where you learn how the industry actually works from people who work in it, not from guessing on the internet. More practically, a ten-minute pitch session with an agent can open a door that months of cold querying might not. And the writers you meet at conferences can become critique partners, accountability buddies, and friends who understand what you are going through in a way that most people in your life simply cannot.
The largest literary conference in North America, featuring hundreds of panels, a massive book fair, and thousands of attendees. Particularly strong for literary fiction and MFA-oriented writers.
A commercially focused conference with extensive pitch slam opportunities. Known for being beginner-friendly, with sessions covering everything from query letters to self-publishing.
The premier science fiction and fantasy convention, home of the Hugo Awards. Combines fan culture with professional development and networking for speculative fiction writers.
Before you register, decide what you want from the conference. Are you looking for agent meetings? Craft education? Community? Your goal determines which sessions you attend and who you try to meet. Without a goal, you will wander and leave feeling like you wasted your money.
The panels are valuable, but some of the most important conference moments happen at dinners, bar meetups, and hallway conversations. Budget your energy so you can show up to at least a few social events. This is where real relationships form.
If an agent loves your pitch and requests the full manuscript, you need to be able to send it within a few weeks. Pitching an unfinished book wastes a valuable opportunity. Finish the book first, then attend the conference.
Conferences are one tool among many. A single event rarely changes everything. The real value builds over time as you return year after year, deepening relationships and growing your skills and network.
Research three writing conferences that accept your genre and are happening in the next twelve months. For each one, write down the dates, cost, location, and what specific opportunity excites you most about attending. Then draft a two-sentence pitch for your current project, because even if you do not attend this year, practicing your pitch now will make you ready when the time comes.