Get inspired, get connected, and get ready to take your author career to the next level.
Writing might be a solitary act, but a great conference can turn your solo mission into a community-powered rocket boost. Whether you’re looking to pitch to agents, soak up craft wisdom, or just hang with your fellow word nerds (our people!), here’s a hand-picked list of upcoming writing conferences for the rest of 2025.
Quick note: This isn’t an exhaustive list (the literary world is wonderfully vast!), so if there’s a conference you love that’s not listed here, we’d love to hear about it. Send us a note at info@writtenwordmedia.com, and we’ll happily consider adding it.
Let’s map out your next literary adventure:
📍 IBPA Publishing University
May 15–17 | Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
Run by the Independent Book Publishers Association, this event is gold for indie authors and small presses. Expect actionable insights on book marketing, distribution, and the ever-changing publishing landscape.
📍 NonfictioNOW
June 11–13 | Notre Dame, Indiana
Calling all nonfiction writers! This global conference focuses on essays, memoir, journalism, and literary nonfiction. It’s an intellectually rich space where fact meets finesse—and deep conversations happen.
📍 SPS Live London
June 25–26 | South Bank, London
Self-Publishing School’s London conference is all about launching, scaling, and thriving as an indie author. Think practical tools, marketing know-how, and inspiration galore—with a side of tea and Thames views.
📍 HNSNA Conference 2025
June 26–28 | Las Vegas, Nevada
Historical fiction fans, this is your jam. The Historical Novel Society North America’s event features panels, workshops, and bookish camaraderie—all wrapped in a bit of Vegas flair.
📍 Midwest Writers Workshop (MMW25)
July 10–12 | Muncie, Indiana
A staple in the Midwest, this workshop blends top-tier instruction with friendly community vibes. Whether you’re starting your first novel or polishing your tenth, there’s something here for you.
📍 RWA 2025 Annual Conference
July 16–19 | Niagara Falls, Ontario
Romance is in the air—and the water! The Romance Writers of America gather for panels, pitch sessions, and craft talks, all in a breathtaking location that could inspire your next love story.
📍 Writer’s Digest Annual Conference
July 24–27 | Baltimore, Maryland
A flagship event for writers of all stripes. From keynotes to deep-dive workshops and pitch slams, this is where career-minded authors come to level up—and maybe snag that dream agent.
📍 Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference
August 21–24 | Nashville, Tennessee
For crime, thriller, and mystery writers, Killer Nashville is a must. It’s equal parts networking, craft, and chills—plus, you’ll be in the company of authors who know how to plot a twist.
📍 Craft & Publishing Voyage
August 27–September 3 | London to New York
Set sail with fellow writers on this literary cruise. With a unique mix of craft instruction, publishing advice, and onboard networking, it’s part retreat, part masterclass—at sea!
📍 WriterCon Conference
August 29–September 1 | Oklahoma City, OK
A broad-ranging conference that covers fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and everything in between. Expect actionable sessions, publishing tips, and a supportive author community.
📍 NINC (Novelists, Inc.)
September 17–22 | St. Pete Beach, Florida
This conference is for established, career-focused fiction writers. Think next-level marketing strategies, industry insider panels, and tropical beachside networking. (Bring your sunglasses and your elevator pitch!)
📍 Moonlight & Magnolias 2025 Writers Conference
September 25–27 | Norcross, Georgia
Hosted by Georgia Romance Writers, this beloved event blends Southern charm with a sharp focus on publishing and craft. It’s intimate, fun, and full of helpful sessions for all levels.
📍 2025 Colorado Gold Writers Conference
September 26–28 | Aurora, Colorado
Run by Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, this long-running conference supports fiction writers with pitch appointments, hands-on workshops, and community spirit set against stunning mountain backdrops.
📍 New Frontiers in Writing
September 27–28 | Amarillo, Texas
A newer entry on the scene, this conference is geared toward pushing boundaries—whether it’s through genre, form, or storytelling approach. Ideal for experimental or speculative fiction authors.
📍 Fredericksburg Independent Book Festival
October 4 | Fredericksburg, Virginia
This one-day book fest is part community celebration, part networking event for authors. Set up a booth, meet readers face-to-face, and connect with fellow indies under Virginia’s autumn skies.
📍 Gotham’s Fiction Writers Conference
October 4–5 | Location TBA
Brought to you by Gotham Writers Workshop, this two-day event includes pitch sessions, agent panels, and masterclasses. Perfect for serious fiction writers looking to break in—or break out.
📍 Florida WritersCon 2025
October 17–19 | Orlando/Altamonte Springs, Florida
From beginner workshops to master-level intensives, this con has something for everyone. Expect industry guests, networking events, and plenty of writing-focused energy.
📍 Author Nation
November 3–7 | Las Vegas, Nevada
Author Nation is a celebration of the independent author. You’ll find marketing sessions, tech demos, and loads of opportunities to connect with fellow pros. It’s like a Comic-Con for self-pub!
Pen-Worthy Plans Ahead
Conferences are a great way to fuel your author career, find your people, and get real about your writing goals. Whether you’re seeking craft growth, business savvy, or a new writing tribe, there’s a perfect event for you on this list.
And hey—don’t forget to stack your next promo before or after a conference appearance to keep that momentum going. (😉 You know who to call. Cough Written Word Media Cough).
Did we miss one? If your favorite conference isn’t listed here—drop us a line at info@writtenwordmedia.com. We’re always looking to support more events that help authors shine.