Writing Conferences and Retreats
Click here for an extensive list of writing conferences and retreats around the state and the country.
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SebArts Books at the Source Literary Arts Summit
For Writers & Book Lovers: Featuring Authors and Teachers of Fiction, Memoir, Nonfiction & Poetry
Saturday, March 14, 2026; 10am-6pm
Ticket Registration Open NOW! $255.74 for the day (lunch/snacks included)
282 S. High Street, Sebastopol
Connect with literary talent of the North Bay and beyond
Be inspired by panel presentations, workshops, readings, networking
Go to the source with authors who share their sources of inspiration!
An inspiring day designed to foster literary dialogue, nurture creativity, and forge meaningful connections, the Summit celebrates and expands our vibrant literary community.
Authors and teachers from the North Bay and beyond will share their writing craft, publishing journeys, and books to inform your own writing practices and literary pursuits.
More details and registration: sebartsbooksatthesource2026.sched.com/about
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Creative Writing Retreat, Dominican University
Saturday, March 21st, 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
In-Person Dominican Campus Event, $160
Details and Registration Here
Join us for our Spring Creative Writing Retreat on Saturday March 21st. Dominican MFA writing mentors will lead workshops in fiction, essay, memoir, and poetry. This retreat has a new format that offers extended time in small group workshops in both the morning and the afternoon as well as journal writing, a nature walk, and a keynote lecture with Savala Nolan, author of Good Woman, A Reckoning. Space is limited, scholarships available.
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Sonoma Storytellers — Women’s Writing Retreat
May 5-8, 2026
The retreat will be held in Kenwood.
Three Days & Three Nights Include:
* Welcome reception with live music
* Guest speakers
* Guided generative writing sessions
* Dedicated time for writing & exploration
* Evening readings & sharing circles
* Morning yoga
* Pool, hot tub & sauna
* Continental breakfasts, self-serve lunches
* Chef prepared family-style dinners
* Farewell Dinner Celebration at a local restaurant
* On-site communal lodging available (rooms & rates vary)
What You’ll Gain:
* Dedicated time & space to focus on your writing
* Helpful feedback in a supportive environment
* Confidence & momentum for your writing life
* Connection with like-minded women writers
* A deeper understanding of your own voice
* A renewed sense of purpose in your writing
* Emotional & creative replenishment
* Clarity & direction for your current project
* Fresh inspiration through guided writing sessions
* Emotional, physical & mental restoration
For More Information, email:
sonomastorytellers@gmail.com
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Mendocino Coast Writers Conference
July 30-August 1, 2026
The Mendocino Coast Writers’ Conference is a vibrant gathering that offers Morning Workshops in a wide range of genres. Afternoons are packed with craft seminars, panels, one-on-one consultations, and open mics; and every evening offers an opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie and connection that make this conference, in the words of one participant, “life changing.”
Applications for scholarships to and for the Master Class at the Mendocino Coast Writers’ Conference—a juried-in workshop taught by Jeanne Thornton—are open for submission until 11:59 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026. There is no cost to submit. The conference will be held in Mendocino, California from July 30 – August 1, 2026. Questions can be directed to MCWC Operations Manager Charity Yoro at info@mcwc.org and Executive Director Lisa Locascio Nighthawk at director@mcwc.org.
General registration will open in early April of 2026. For more information please visit mcwc.org.
Sonoma County Literary Update 