The Association of Writers & Writing Programs Says, “Good Morning, Baltimore!” with 2026 AWP Conference & Bookfair
Norfolk, VA — The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) says, “Good morning, Baltimore!” The 2026 AWP Conference & Bookfair will be held March 4–7, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland. This annual event is the premier gathering for writers, educators, editors, and publishers. With more than 315 events, 600 exhibitors, and 20 hours of virtual content, #AWP26 offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with the literary community.
AWP’s mission is to amplify the voices of writers and the institutions that serve them while championing diversity and excellence in creative writing. Their annual conference is the largest literary event in the US, welcoming eight thousand to ten thousand attendees.
“AWP is delighted to return to Baltimore, a city with a rich literary tradition and thriving creative community. From Lucille Clifton to Edgar Allan Poe, Baltimore has long inspired writers to find their voice and vision,” says AWP Board Chair January Gill O’Neil. “We look forward to gathering around the Inner Harbor to celebrate that enduring spirit and the writers who keep it alive.”
Featured Events
Featured events at the conference will include conversations on the right to read versus book bans; the use of AI in creative writing; determining whose voices define history; writing as a neurodivergent person; and finding community within your writing network, among others. Featured events are sponsored by literary partners including the National Book Foundation, PEN America, Blue Flower Arts, and more. Additional featured events will be announced in the coming months.
AWP Tribal Colleges & Universities Fellowship Program and AWP HBCU Fellowship Program Return
Tribal communities have long fostered emerging literary talents and continue to produce some of the most influential voices in the literary landscape today. The AWP Tribal Colleges & Universities Fellowship Program returns for its second year, with Ramona Emerson serving as the creative advisor. Thriving undergraduate creative writing programs exist at many historically Black colleges and universities. The AWP HBCU Fellowship Program, in its fourth year, highlights emerging Black voices, with MK Asante serving as the creative advisor. Faculty and student fellows for both programs will be announced later this fall.
“With support from myriad Baltimore entities, including Johns Hopkins University, a full slate of literary partnerships, powerful programming, and a legendary keynote speaker, #AWP26 is shaping up to be an energetic and inspiring event. We can’t wait to join our community in celebrating Baltimore’s storied literary legacy!” says Executive Director Michelle Aielli.
For information on in-person and virtual registration, please visit awpwriter.org. For interview requests or more information on #AWP26, please email [email protected].