Join us at Florida WritersCon 2026, a gathering of Florida’s literary community to connect, learn, and celebrate. Featuring a keynote by Shawn Welcome, an award-winning storyteller, thoughtful networking, hands-on workshops, and a professional panel on book marketing. This year’s conference offers opportunities to elevate your craft, grow your career, and make some new friends along the way.
Why Attend?
Keynote Address from Shawn Welcome
Shawn Welcome is the co-founder of the Literary Arts Council of Central Florida and the former Poet Laureate for the City of Orlando. An award-winning professional speaker and gifted storyteller, Shawn inspires, educates, and entertains audiences around the world. Learn more about Shawn Welcome.
This keynote event is a mixed media experience consisting of spoken word performances, film, and dialogue.
New – Hands-On Workshops
Deepen your craft in a focused, two-hour session on Friday. Learn from experienced authors and industry professionals, then put new techniques into practice with structured, hands-on exercises. Instructors and topics will be announced early summer.
Writers Connect (Thoughtful Networking)
It’s back! Don’t miss the event attendees raved about last year. After the workshops, join us on Friday afternoon for 2 hours of thoughtful networking. Instead of milling about a large room and handing out business cards, attendees will participate in guided activities designed to encourage authentic connection and inspire a sense of fun. Come as strangers, leave with a few laughs and new conference friends.
20+ Workshops Designed for Writers
Choose from 20+ different workshops, over Friday and Saturday, that are focused on helping emerging and established writers sharpen their craft, discover new publishing paths, and level up their writing business. Led by experts and industry professionals, you’ll leave feeling inspired and empowered!
NEW – Book Marketing Panel
Stay for Sunday morning’s expert panel on what’s working in book marketing right now. Designed with indie authors in mind, this session delivers practical strategies you can use right away, from navigating AI tools to reaching readers in a shifting marketplace. Includes audience Q&A. Panelists announced soon.
What's Included?
Your conference registration includes:
- Shawn Welcome Keynote and Documentary Screening
- Writers Connect
- Hands-On Workshops
- 20+ workshops over Friday and Saturday
- Book Marketing Panel
- Friday and Saturday Night Mixers
- Meals and refreshments
- A free copy of FWA Collection, Volume 18: Fragments
Registration Opening Soon
Registration for Florida WritersCon 2026 will open in early May 2026. Reserve the dates, October 23 to 25, and please keep an eye on our website for more details.
Until then, we invite you to participate in the I’m a Florida Writer Program and get excited about being part of Florida’s literary community!
Now Accepting Faculty Applications!
 We're seeking workshop proposals for Florida WritersCon 2026 in the categories of the business of writing, publication pathways, and the craft of writing. Additionally, we're seeking proposals for 2-hour hands-on craft workshops where attendees can practice the skills they learn. Faculty members receive complimentary admission to the event and at least 2 presentation opportunities. Apply today!
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