Now’s the time to start filling up your 2019 dance card. Feel free to print out, pass along or republish this calendar of conferences geared toward both indie and traditional authors. Events span the gamut from writing workshops to splashy expos where writers get to rub elbows with avid readers, agents and fellow authors.

As an author of high-tech thrillers, I go to several of these every year. There’s nothing like meeting fellow authors and notable figures in the space in real life so you can collaborate, compare notes and improve your craft. Personally, I don’t think the giant book fairs are the best bets for indie authors, but some of the can’t miss conferences for indie authors include NINC, the Smarter Artist Summit (in its last year) and 20Books Vegas — though frankly the Ireland Writing Retreat also looks amazing. Many of the regional gatherings also come highly recommended.

Below is Best of Indie’s second annual SuperGuide to 2019 conferences and events for independent authors and book fans.

SuperGuide to Indie author conferences & events

Conferences, book fairs & reader events of interest to independent authors

Event	Logo	Date	Location	Cost	Description	Site
Major book fairs
London Book Fair		March 12-14, 2019	West London	Visitors pass: £45 ($57 US)	Meet fellow authors, agents and representatives of audio, TV, film and digital platforms. The Alliance of Independent Authors calls this “the most author-friendly of the big international fairs by far.”	londonbookfair.co.uk
Book Expo America		May 29-31, 2019	New York	Pricing not announced; in 2018 it was $200/day for authors	Writers, readers and vendors converge at largest book trade fair in the U.S. Meet publishers, bookstore owners and authors, including a few indies. Its New Title Showcase claims to be “the #1 place to launch your new print or ebook title.”	bookexpoamerica.com
Frankfurt Book Fair		Oct. 16-20, 2019	Frankfurt, Germany	Tickets go on sale in June, pricing not announced	Last year's event had 285,000 visitors from 110 countries from the trade industry and general public. Geared to traditional publishers, with 7,500 exhibitors on hand.	buchmesse.de/en
Conferences/events
Fairway Galle Literary Festival		Jan. 16-20, 2019	Sri Lanka	15,000 Sri Lankan rupees ($82) for festival pass	Launched in 2007 , the festival has become one of the most anticipated literary events in southeast Asia for both authors and literary enthusiasts around the world. It's held at historic Dutch Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.	galleliteraryfestival.com
San Miguel Writers' Conference & Literary Festival		Feb. 13-17, 2019	San Miguel, Mexico	$295-$875	This prestigious bilingual literary gathering attracts 750 participants—distinguished authors, established and emerging writers, industry experts and teaching pros—from the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Europe for workshops and master classes.	conference site
San Francisco Writers Conference		Feb. 14-17, 2019	San Francisco	$850 until Feb. 1	Attendees will join with 100+ presenters (authors, agents, editors and publishers) from across the country and around the world. SFWC events are consistently rated among the top writer’s conferences anywhere. Meet experts on self-publishing, book promotion, platform building, social media, audio books, podcasting and author websites.	sfwriters.org
Southern California Writers Conference		Feb. 15-17, 2019	San Diego	$375	The conference's focus is on connecting writers and agents. SCWC has manged to facilitate more than $4 million worth of first-time author book and screen deals. Limited to 175 conferees.	conference site
Smarter Artist Summit		Feb. 18-19, 2019	Austin, Texas	$799	Spend two days learning strategies that will outlast the “what’s working yesterday” tactics everyone else is talking about. The summit has an intimate setting, small enough to make connections but large enough to bring authorpreneurs from all genres and experience levels together to share their superpowers.	conference site
Seymour Agency Writer's Winter Escape Cruise		Feb. 18-22, 2019	Miami to Nassau, Bahamas	$202 plus cruise fare	Working writer’s retreat on Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas offers both published and unpublished authors the chance to pitch NY editors and LA film producers, attend sessions and network with other industry professionals.	eventbrite
Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference		Feb. 22-23, 2019	Tempe, Ariz.	$250 early registration; $200 single-day pass	The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and publishing, as well as craft classes, lectures, panel discussions and readings. Nine faculty members.	conference site
Genre-LA Creative Writing Conference		Feb. 22-24, 2019	Los Angeles	$399-$499 full weekend; $99-$199 one-day pass	This 20th annual event gathers more than 30 best-selling authors of genre novels, literary agents, editors, publishers, industry experts, Hollywood veterans, educators and publishing professionals.	wcwriters.com
San Francisco Indie Uncon		Feb. 22-24, 2019	San Francisco	$50	Held at Club Quarters in the Financial District, the uncon has no set agenda and is a free-wheeling event where authorpreneurs who have some experience in self-publishing share information on how to take their careers to the next level. Limited to 60 people.	conference info
Kāpiti Writers’ Retreat		Feb. 22-24, 2019	El Rancho, Kāpiti Coast, New Zealand	$380	Hey, it's summer in February in New Zealand. The two-day gathering features intensive morning workshops, lively afternoon discussions and space to write, relax and engage with topics critical to your work. Six faculty members on hand.	conference site
Minnesota Writing Workshop		March 2, 2019	St. Paul, Minn.	$189+	The 2019 Minnesota Writing Workshop will put on a full-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. It's limited to 200 people.	conference site
Atlanta Writing Workshop		March 9, 2019	Atlanta	$189+	This full-day “How to Get Published” writing event offers a chance to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor and get your questions answered. Limited to 200 writers.	conference site
SleuthFest		March 14-17, 2019	Boca Raton, Fla.	$50 - $445	Sponsored by the Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America, SleuthFest is geared to mystery, suspense and thriller writers of all levels, offering sessions on the craft of writing and marketing as well as social events and appointments with agents and editors to pitch your finished work.	sleuthfest.com
AWP Conference		March 27-30, 2019	Portland, Ore.	$215+	The Association of Writers and Writing Programs, the largest literary conference in North America, attracts more than 12,000 writers and readers and 800 exhibitors for four days of readings, panels and writing lectures.	awpwriter.org
Left Coast Crime		March 28-31, 2019	Vancouver, Canada	$335 CAD	The annual mystery convention Left Coast Crime is for fans of the mystery/crime genre: readers, authors, librarians, bloggers, publishers, editors, agents and booksellers.	leftcoastcrime.org
Pathway to Publication		April 4-7, 2019	Madison, Wisc.	$275 (early registration) to $395	The Midwest's premier writing conference from the Writers Institute offers four days of education, entertainment and writing inspiration. Reps from traditional agencies and self-publishing companies will be on hand.	conference site
*IBPA Publishing University		April 5-6, 2019	Chicago	$395 members, $495 non-members	IBPA dubs its event “the premier educational event for indie publishers and self-published authors,” offering more than 30 educational sessions.	publishinguniversity.org
The Muse and the Marketplace		April 5-7, 2019	Boston	$395 (one day) to $535 (three days)	Authors, literary agents, editors and other industry professionals descend on the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston for a weekend writing conference put on by the nonprofit GrubStreet.	conference site
New England Speculative Writers Conference		April 13, 2019	Portland, Maine	$125	In this one-day interactive conference & networking event, you'll learn from professionals, connect with like-minded authors and expand your writing career.	conference site
Norwescon		April 18-21, 2019	Seattle-Tacoma	$70	Norwescon is the Pacific Northwest’s premier science fiction and fantasy convention and one of the largest regional science fiction and fantasy conventions in the U.S.	norwescon.org
Seattle Writing Conference		April 27, 2019	Seattle	$189+	This full-day “How to Get Published” writing event offers a chance to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor and get your questions answered. Limited to 200 writers.	conference site
*Self-Publishing Conference		April 27, 2019	Leicester, UK	£70 ($90 US)	The only conference in the UK dedicated to self-published authors, this gathering offers sessions on topics such as writing, production, marketing and distribution. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to network with fellow indie authors.	conference site
Inkerscon		May 1-5, 2019	Dallas	Unknown	Hundreds of authors will attend this gathering, which offers workshops and panels in writing, marketing and business practices. The curriculum is designed to boost your career to the next level, whether you're starting out or an advanced author. Remote access available on June 8-9 for those who can't make it to Dallas.	inkerscon.com
Las Vegas Writers Conference		May 2-4, 2019	Las Vegas	$500	This conference is dedicated to helping writers of all genres improve their craft, sharpen their business skills, and network with publishing professionals. Held each spring at the Tuscany resort. Pitch sessions with literary agents and editors are included.	conference site
Pikes Peak Writers Conference		May 3-5, 2019	Colorado Springs, Colo.	$405	The three-day conference is full of in-depth workshops, best-selling keynote speakers, opportunities for one-on-one time with agents and editors, the chance to read your work aloud for constructive critique, and the opportunity to socialize with fellow writers.	pikespeakwriters.com
Sell More Books Show Summit		May 3-5, 2019	Chicago	Sold out	Jim Kukral and Bryan Cohen of the Sell More Books Show podcast put on a live event for 115 attendees focused on the business of selling books.	sellmorebooksshow.com
Michigan Writing Conference		May 4, 2019	Livonia, Mich.	$189+	This full-day “How to Get Published” writing event offers a chance to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor and get your questions answered. Limited to 200 writers.	conference site
ASJA Writers Conference		May 5-6, 2019	New York	$125 – $439	The American Society of Journalists and Authors Conference attracts some 500-600 people each year and focuses on helping independent writers succeed.	ASJA conference
Storymakers Conference		May 9-11, 2019	Provo, Utah	$245 both days; one day, $125	Sponsored by the LDStorymakers Author Guild, the event offers author lectures, intensive classes and more. From the site: "Many conference attendees have faith in common, but our conference is not religious in nature. We pray over our meals."	conference site
StokerCon		May 9-12, 2019	Grand Rapids, Mich.	$65 – $325	The Horror Writers Association's annual convention, held in conjunction with the Bram Stoker Awards, is the premier event for writers and publishers of horror and dark fantasy.	stokercon2019.org
Book Lovers Con		May 15-19, 2019	New Orleans	$395	Taking the place of the Romance Times Booklovers Convention, the new Book Lovers Con brings together authors, fans, bloggers, booksellers and librarians who'll attend workshops by day and socialize by night.	bookloverscon.com
SFWA Nebula Conference		May 16, 2019	Woodland Hills, Calif.	$210 – $295	The 53rd event from the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America features three tracks relevant to professionals in the genre; choose from career management, professional development and expert knowledge panels and workshops.	nebulas.sfwa.org
The Writer's Hotel		June 5-11, 2019	New York	$3,000	Volunteer editors consult on writers’ manuscripts, submitted beforehand, followed by gatherings in midtown Manhattan hotels. Workshops, lectures, agent pitch sessions and author readings are part of this independent program.	writershotel.com
Historical Novel Society North American Conference		June 20-22, 2019	Oxon Hill, Md. (near D.C.)	$425 members, $495 nonmembers; add $100 after Feb. 15	Widely known as the top conference for historical fiction, the biennial Historical Novel Society North American Conference is geared toward readers and writers of historical novels and will feature presentations, panels, preconference workshops, pitch sessions with agents and editors and more.	hns-conference.com
Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference		June 21-23, 2019	Los Angeles	$249-$499	A sister conference of the Genre-LA event on Feb. 22, this event at Los Angeles Valley College features lectures, workshops, panels and access to the Resource Center.	wcwriters.com
Ireland Writing Retreat		June 24-30 and Sept. 23-29, 2019	Gweedore, Ireland	From €990 ($1,277) incl. B&B	Be inspired by an ancient mythical landscape on island and hill walks listening to expert guides recite local legends on the Donegal Wild Atlantic Way. Listen to traditional Irish music played by local singer-songwriters. Return home with several finished works read and critiqued during one-on-one tuition sessions with published authors and group discussions.	conference site
Jackson Hole Writers Conference		June 27-29, 2019	Jackson Hole, Wyo.,	$375; day pass, $150-$200	Set in Grand Teton National Park's back yard, the conference’s intimate size means writers meet each other and the faculty, share ideas along with a glass of beer or wine, and make new contacts in a workshop.	conference site
SpikeCon		July 4-7, 2019	Layton, Utah	Not yet announced	Westercon combines with the North American Science Fiction Convention (NASFiC) and 1632 MiniCon under the convention name “SpikeCon.”	spikecon.org
*Thrillerfest		July 9-13, 2019	New York	$155 – $1,260	Ground zero for mystery and thriller authors, Thrillerfest includes sessions on writing, publishing, marketing and agent pitches. While the focus is traditional publishing, indie thriller author Joanna Penn says she felt “accepted as an indie, with no judgment around my business choices.”	thrillerfest.com
RWA 2018		July 24-27, 2019	New York	$275 – $724	Put on by the Romance Writers of America, RWA is where more than 2,000 romance writers and industry professionals gather to learn, network and boost author careers.	rwa.org
Literary Love - Authors Rock Savannah		July 25-28, 2019	Savannah, Georgia	$240	Organized by Romance Ink, authors of all genres will descend on Savannah for three days of books, fun and goodies, with 60 authors speaking or on hand.	registration
20Books Edinburgh		July 25-31, 2019	Edinburgh, Scotland	£225 ($297) conference weekend; £450 ($594) full week	An educational and networking event for indie authors organized by Craig Martelle of 20Books fame. Join the closed Facebook group for info.	registration
*Indie Bookfest		Aug. 1-4, 2019	Orlando, Fla.	$25-$75	This seventh annual author/reader event celebrates indie, hybrid and traditional authors and artists. Look for workshops, expert panels and nightly parties.	conference site
When Words Collide		Aug. 9-11, 2019	Calgary, Alberta, Canada	$50 CAD	When Words Collide is a festival for readers, writers, artists and publishers of commercial and literary fiction, including genre, YA, children's books and poetry.	whenwordscollide.org
Myths & Legends		Aug. 9-11, 2019	Denver	$20	The Myths and Legends Convention celebrates our modern myths and legends. Look for tea dueling and dancing, panels and programs, make-and-takes and interesting guests, as well as a vendor room full of hand-made fan-oriented items and an art show.	malcondenver.org
Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Summer Conference		Aug. 9-12, 2019	Los Angeles	Not yet announced	Many of the biggest authors and illustrators in children’s books will be joining a bevy of agents, art directors and editors during three days in L.A. (The Winter Conference in New York on Feb. 8-10, 2019, is sold out.)	scbwi.org
WorldCon		Aug. 15-19, 2019	Dublin, Ireland	Not yet announced	The World Science Fiction Convention, the annual convention of the World Science Fiction Society held since 1939, brings together science fiction and fantasy fans, writers, artists and creatives. The social event has grown to include genre television, movies, animation, games and other media.	worldcon.org
Killer Nashville		Aug. 22-25, 2019	Nashville, Tenn.	$379 (four days); $150 single-day pass	The conference is a four-day event bringing together some of the world's best authors, aspiring writers, agents, editors and other industry professionals.	killernashville.com
Writer's Digest Conference		Aug. 23-25, 2019	New York	$349 - $499	Editors of Writer’s Digest put on this annual conference devoted to craft, career and creative inspiration. Pitch to agents in the hallway or at the Pitch Slam.	conference site
Bubonicon		Aug. 23-25, 2019	Albuquerque, N.M.	$35	Bubonicon is the annual multigenre convention in Albuquerque put on by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention. It's the largest SF convention in New Mexico and among the oldest in the Southwest.	bubonicon.com
DragonCon		Aug. 29 to Sept. 2, 2019	Atlanta	$105	DragonCon is the largest multimedia, popular culture convention focusing on gaming, comics, literature, art, music and film related to sci fi and fantasy.	dragoncon.org
Tribe Conference		Sept. 6-8, 2019	Franklin, Tenn.	$299 - $499	A gathering of writers, artists, and creatives who want to grow their craft and get visibility for their works.	tribeconference.com
Colorado Gold Conference		Sept. 6-8, 2019	Denver	$349 - $599	The Colorado Gold Conference is put on by the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, a non-profit, volunteer-run organization.	rmfw.org
Digital Book World		Sept. 10-12, 2019	Nashville, Tenn.	$895 – $1,595	A gathering of publishing stakeholders: 33% big publishing houses; 20% small to mid-size presses; 15% university presses; 10% corporate publishers, 10% trade associations, nonprofits & advocacy groups and 2% self-published authors.	digitalbookworld.com
Penned Con		Sept. 12-14, 2019	St. Louis	$10 - $325	Here’s a family-friendly event focused on meeting your favorite authors (with two days of signings) in a relaxed setting while raising money for autism research.	pennedcon.com
American Night Writers Association Writers Conference		Sept. 12-14, 2019	Gilbert, Ariz.	Not yet announced; 2018 was $215-$230	ANWA is a non-profit organization that assembles a cast of experts to educate and propel writers forward in their work and gives writers a chance to connect with top contacts in the publishing world. Attendance is capped at 200.	anwa-lds.org
Pacific Northwest Writers Association		Sept. 12-15, 2019	Seattle	$375 PNWA members; $475 nonmembers	PNWA provides members with tools and opportunities to turn their writing dreams into reality. Its mission is to develop writing talent through education, accessibility to the publishing industry and participation in an interactive writer community.	pnwa.org
Creatures, Crimes & Creativity (C3 Con)		Sept. 13-15, 2019	Columbia, Md.	$140 (one day) to $265 (three days; ends March 31)	C1 Con is the gathering spot for readers and writers of mystery, suspense, thriller, horror, sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal.	conference site
*NINC (Novelists Inc.)		Sept. 25-29, 2019	St. Pete Beach, Fla.	$425 plus membership in NINC	NINC brings together multi-published, multi-genre authors who publish traditionally, independently or both. Indie author speakers include Mark Dawson, Joanna Penn and David Gaughran. Must join NINC to attend.	ninc.com
Indie Romance Convention		Oct. 9-12, 2019	Lebanon, Tenn.	$120-$150 authors, $55 readers	IRC offers three days of workshops, panels and an afternoon book signing. You’ll find a mix of indie, hybrid and small-press authors among the attendees—roughly 45 authors and 55 readers.	conference site
GayRomLit (GRL)		Oct. 17-20, 2019	Albuquerque, N.M.	Not yet announced	GayRomLit is an annual retreat that brings together the people who create and celebrate LGBT romance for a one-of-a-kind, must-attend gathering of dynamic, informal and diverse fun.	gayromlit.com
Vancouver Writers Fest		Oct. 21-27, 2019	Vancouver, B.C.	Not yet announced	The Vancouver Writers Fest encourages readers of all ages to explore the power of storytelling and books through dozens of events with local and international writers. About 2,000 people attend on some days.	writersfest.bc.ca
Writer's Digest Novel Writing Conference		Oct. 25-27, 2019	Pasadena, Calif.	Not yet announced	Writer's Digest sets down stakes on the West Coast with many of publishing’s most knowledgeable writers, agents and editors to guide you through the process of writing, editing and publishing your novel. Hone your craft, refine your characters, explore the future of publishing and get the tools you need to advance your career.	conference site
Surrey International Writers' Conference		Oct. 25-27, 2019	Surrey, B.C.	$625 (3 days); $219-$299 (one day)	The Surrey International Writers' Conference is a workshop-based conference with a focus on development of skills and industry-based knowledge. From beginning to widely published writers, this is a good place to hone your skills, learn more about markets and network for future sales. Pitch sessions available.	siwc.ca
*20Books Vegas Conference		Nov. 12-15, 2019	Las Vegas, Nev.	$135-$150	Put on by indie publishing impresarios Craig Martelle and Michael Anderle, 20Books is the largest indie authors conference in the world, drawing about 700 attendees. Some of the world's best-selling indie authors will be on hand as well as aspiring authors and everyone in between.	20booksvegas.com
Philadelphia Writing Workshop		Nov. 23, 2019	Philadelphia	$189+	This full-day “How to Get Published” writing event offers a chance to get intense instruction over the course of one day, pitch a literary agent or editor and get your questions answered. Limited to 200 writers.	Conference site
20Books Adelaide		Dec. 30, 2019	Adelaide, Australia	Not yet announced	A one-day show down under where the attendees can interact via video with phenomenally intelligent and well-respected guest speakers.	20BooksTo50K

Online event

We didn’t include second-level international book fairs in the list above. Online, one event worth checking out for sure is the upcoming Self-publishing Advice Conference (formerly known as ALLi’s Indie Author Fringe), which takes place March 16, 2019, in concert with the London Book Fair.

Have others to add? Let us know in the comments and we’ll add them right away.

The post Indie author conferences & events 2019 appeared first on Best of Indie.

If I were compiling a list of conferences devoted to indie authors alone, it would be a very small list indeed. But events that benefit indie authors span the gamut from writing workshops to big splashy expos where writers get to rub elbows with avid readers, agents and fellow authors.

My philosophy is simple. Learn as much about writing, readers and traditional book publishing before you set out on your indie journey. Infiltrate before you dominate.

So here’s our first annual SuperGuide to conferences, book gatherings and reader events of interest to independent authors.

Tip: Cut out this cheat sheet and tape it to your office wall. Even if you’re not going, you can follow the hashtags of most of these events on Twitter.

Have others to add? Let us know in the comments and we’ll add them right away!

SuperGuide to Indie author conferences & events

Conferences, book fairs & reader events of interest to independent authors

Event	Logo	Date	Location	Cost	Description	Site
Major book fairs
London Book Fair		April 10-12, 2018	West London	Visitors pass: £45 ($63 US)	Meet fellow authors, agents and representatives of audio, TV, film and digital platforms. The Alliance of Independent Authors calls this "the most author-friendly of the big international fairs by far."	londonbookfair.co.uk
Book Expo America		May 30 to June 1, 2018	New York	$200/day for authors thru May 11; $315 to include a book in exhibit catalog	Writers, readers and vendors converge at largest book trade fair in the U.S. Meet publishers, bookstore owners and authors, including a few indies. Its New Title Showcase claims to be "the #1 place to launch your new print or ebook title."	bookexpoamerica.com
Frankfurt Book Fair		Oct. 10-14, 2018	Frankfurt, Germany	52 euros ($64) for one-day trade visitor pass (until July 31)	Last year's event had 286,425 visitors from 137 countries from the trade industry and general public. Geared to traditional publishers, with 7,300 exhibitors on hand.	buchmesse.de/en
Conferences/events
*IBPA Publishing University		April 6-7, 2018	Austin, Texas	$295 – $475 non-members	IBPA dubs its event “the premier educational event for indie publishers and self-published authors,” offering more than 30 educational sessions.	publishinguniversity.org
The Muse and the Marketplace		April 6-8, 2018	Boston	$385 (one day) to $535	Authors, literary agents, editors and other industry professionals descend on the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston for a weekend writing conference put on by the nonprofit GrubStreet.	museandthemarketplace.com
Pathway to Publication		April 12-15, 2018	Madison, Wisc.	$275 - $375	The Midwest's premier writing conference from the Writers Institute offers four days of education, entertainment and writing inspiration. Reps from traditional agencies and self-publishing companies will be on hand.	uwwritersinstitute.wisc.edu
*Self-Publishing Conference		April 28, 2018	Leicester, UK	£65 ($90 US)	The only conference in the UK dedicated to self-published authors, this gathering offer sessions on topics such as writing, production, marketing, and distribution. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to network with indie authors.	selfpublishingconference.org.uk
*Sell More Books Show Summit		May 4-6, 2018	Chicago	$499	Jim Kukral and Bryan Cohen of the Sell More Books Show podcast put on a live event for 175 attendees focused on the business of selling books.	sellmorebooksshow.com
RT Book Lovers Conference		May 15-20, 2018	Reno, Nev.	$460 - $515; $55-$150 day passes	Formerly the Romance Times Booklovers Convention, RT brings together 800+ authors and 3,000 fans of romance novels as well as bloggers, booksellers and librarians who'll attend 100+ workshops by day and socialize by night.	rtconvention.com
The Writer's Hotel		June 6-12, 2018	New York	$3,000	Volunteer editors consult on writers’ manuscripts, submitted beforehand, followed by gatherings in midtown Manhattan hotels. Workshops, lectures, agent pitch sessions and author readings are part of this independent program.	writershotel.com
Thrillerfest		July 10-14, 2018	New York	$150 – $1,235	Ground zero for mystery and thriller authors, Thrillerfest includes sessions on writing, publishing, marketing and agent pitches. While the focus is traditional publishing, indie thriller author Joanna Penn says she felt “accepted as an indie, with no judgment around my business choices.”	thrillerfest.com
RWA 2018		July 18-21, 2018	Denver, Colo.	$490 - $715	Put on by the Romance Writers of America, RWA is where more than 2,000 romance writers and industry professionals gather to learn, network and boost author careers.	rwa.org
*Indie Bookfest		Aug. 9 - 12, 2018	Orlando, Fla.	$25-$60	This sixth annual author/reader event celebrates indie, hybrid and traditional authors and artists. Look for workshops, expert panels and nightly parties.	indiebookconvention.com
10 Minute Novelists Writing Conference		Aug. 9-11, 2018	Cincinnati, Ohio	$379	North American writers gather to celebrate writing, learn from experts and socialize with peers. You'll find indie authors in attendance though much of the focus is on getting an agent and publisher.	10mincon.com
Writer's Digest Conference		Aug. 10-12, 2018	New York	$199 - $499	Editors of Writer’s Digest put on this annual conference devoted to craft, career and creative inspiration. Pitch to agents in the hallway or at the Pitch Slam.	writersdigestconference.com
When Worlds Collide		Aug. 10-12, 2018	Calgary, Alberta, Canada	$50	When Words Collide is a festival for readers, writers, artists and publishers of commercial and literary fiction, including genre, YA, children's books and poetry.	whenwordscollide.org
Penned Con		Sept. 20-22, 2018	St. Louis	$10 - $155	Here’s a family-friendly event focused on meeting your favorite authors (with two days of signings) in a relaxed setting while raising money for autism research.	pennedcon.com
*NINC (Novelists Inc.)		Sept. 26-30, 2018	St. Petersburg, Fla.	$325 for industry guests through Aug. 15	The Novelists, Inc. conference brings together multi-published, multi-genre authors who publish traditionally, independently or both. Indie author speakers include Mark Dawson, Joanna Penn and David Gaughran. Must join NINC to attend.	ninc.com
Digital Book World		Oct. 2-4, 2018	Nashville, Tenn.	$895 – $1,595	Attendee breakdown: 33% big publishing houses; 20% small to mid-size presses; 15% university presses; 10% corporate publishers, 10% trade associations, nonprofits & advocacy groups — and 2% self-published authors.	digitalbookworld.com
InD'Scribe Con and Book Festival		Oct 4-7, 2018	Burbank, Calif.	$35 – $225	This first-time event from InD’tale magazine promises, workshops, interactive panels, parties and opportunities to interact with authors and industry professionals.	indscribe.com
Creatures, Crimes & Creativity		Oct. 5-7, 2018	Columbia, Md.	$140 - $255	C3 Con is the gathering spot for readers and writers of mystery, suspense, thriller, horror, sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal.	creaturescrimesandcreativity.com
*Indie Romance Covention		Oct. 10-13, 2018	Lebanon, Tenn.	$150 authors, $35 readers	IRC offers three days of workshops, panels and an afternoon book signing. You’ll find a mix of indie, hybrid and small-press authors among the attendees—about 45 authors and 55 readers.	indieromanceconvention.com
Florida Writers Conference		Oct. 18-21, 2018	Orlando, Fla.	Registration opens April 1	Devoted to the craft and business of writing, this conference offers more than 70 workshops and panels for attendees ranging from beginners to published authors.	floridawriters.net
Tribe Conference		Oct. 26-28, 2018	Franklin, Tenn.	$299+	A gathering of writers, artists, and creatives who want to grow their craft and get visibility for their works.	tribeconference.com
*20Books Vegas Conference		Nov. 6-8, 2018	Las Vegas, Nev.	Not announced	Put on by indie publishing impresario Craig Martelle, 20Books is about “indies supporting indies with the belief that a rising tide floats all boats.” Some of the top names in self-publishing will be on hand as well as aspiring authors and everyone in between.	20booksvegas.com
2019 events
*20Books Bali		Jan. 4-6, 2019	Bali, Indonesia	$3,500	This all-inclusive event from indie events organizer Craig Martelle will offer advanced 301-level sessions for authors in an idyllic, family-friendly location. Mark Dawson and Chris Fox will be the main speakers; most of the sessions will be roundtable conversations.	Not announced
Maui Writers’ Retreat		Probably mid-Jan., 2019	Lahaina, Maui,	$700 tuition; $1,400 includes private room (2018 prices)	Open to prose writers and poets and featuring two faculty members, this retreat provides a week of immersion in writing amid the hibiscus, plumeria and sunsets of Lahaina.	kahini.org
San Miguel Writers' Conference & Literary Festival		Feb. 13-17, 2019	San Miguel, Mexico	$575-$795 (2018 prices)	This prestigious bilingual literary gathering attracts 750 participants—distinguished authors, established and emerging writers, industry experts and teaching pros—from the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Europe for workshops and master classes.	sanmiguelwritersconference.org
San Francisco Writers Conference		Probably mid-Feb. 2019	San Francisco	$845 (2018 price)	Attendees will join 100+ presenters and fellow writers from around the world in an event designed to help writers with the craft and business of writing.	sfwriters.org
Genre-LA Creative Writing Conference		Probably late Feb. 2019	Los Angeles	$149 - $499 (2018 price)	This 20th annual event gathers more than 30 best-selling authors of genre novels, literary agents, editors, publishers, industry experts, Hollywood veterans, educators and publishing professionals.
*Smarter Artists Summit		Probably late Feb. 2019	Austin, Texas	$799 (2018 price)	Meet fellow “authorpreneurs” who are going through the same challenges and hear some of the top names in indie publishing offer strategies and advice.	smarterartistsummit.com
AWP Conference		March 27–30, 2019	Portland, Ore.	$150-$315 (2018 price)	The Association of Writers and Writing Programs, the largest literary conference in North America, attracts more than 15,000 writers and readers and 800 exhibitors for four days of readings, panels and writing lectures.	awpwriter.org
*20Books		July 2019	UK	TBA	After the successful 20Books London event in February, author-organizer Craig Martelle will soon be making an announcement about a new UK location for a 20Books event next year.

Additional events for indie authors and/or indie book lovers

Above we didn’t include the second-level international book fairs in Bologna, Italy; Beijing; Buenos Aires; Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Paris; Guadalajara, Mexico; Prague, Helsinki and Hong Kong. Online, one event worth checking out for sure is the upcoming Self-publishing Advice Conference (formerly known as ALLi’s Indie Author Fringe), which takes place April 14, 2018, in concert with the London Book Fair.

Additional reader events and writers’ workshops and conferences include these notable events. Keep in mind that this is a sampling and not a comprehensive list — there are hundreds of writing events and workshops around the globe.

• Norwescon, the Pacific Northwest’s Premier Science-Fiction and Fantasy Convention, March 29 – April 1, Seattle-Tacoma, Wash., $40-$85.
• Michigan Writing Workshop, April 14, 2018, Detroit, $169.
• Las Vegas Writers Conference, April 19-21, 2018, Las Vegas, Nev., $500. Put on by a nonprofit, the event attracts agents and publishers from across the country and provides a networking and critiquing forum for writers of all skill levels.
• Pikes Peak Writers Conference, April 27-29, 2018, Colorado Springs, Colo.
• Seattle Writers Conference, April 28, 2018, a full-day “how to get published” writing event in Seattle.
• SFWA Nebula Conference, the 52nd event from the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, May 17-20, 2018, Pittsburgh, $206.
• American Society of Journalists and Authors Conference, May 18-19, 2018, New York, $269-$499. The event attracts some 500-600 people each year and focuses on helping independent writers succeed.
• Origins Game Fair, June 13-17, 2018, Columbus, Ohio. Gamer conference includes a large author seminar program.

• Hursley Park Book Fair, June 23-24, 2018, Hursley, UK. Family event for indie authors with talks, readings, book signings and competitions.
• Jackson Hole Writers Conference, June 28-30, 2018, Jackson Hole, Wyo., $375 price through May 12, 2018.
• Westercon, or the West Coast Science Fantasy Conference, July 4-8, 2018, Denver. Regional science fiction and fantasy convention founded in 1948.
• WorldCon, the World Science Fiction Convention, Aug. 16-20, 2018, San Jose, Calif., $50-$230, featuring the Hugo Awards. The five-day event is attended by thousands of writers, artists, fans, editors, publishers, academics and dealers.
• Ellcon, lesbian fiction conference, Aug. 23-24, 2018, Bristol, UK.
• Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference, Aug. 23-26, 2018, Nashville, Tenn., $379.
• Bubonicon 50, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention, Aug. 24-26, 2018, Albuquerque, N.M., $40.
• Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, Sept. 6-9, 2018, Denver.
• Vancouver International Writers & Readers Festival, Oct. 15-22, 2018, Vancouver, B.C.
• GayRomLit, Oct. 18-21, 2018, in Portsmouth, Va., $225. An annual retreat that brings together the people who create and celebrate LGBT romance books.
• Surrey International Writers’ Conference, Oct. 19-21, 2018, Surrey, British Columbia, $199-$649.
• Writer’s Digest Novel Writing Conference, Oct. 26–28, 2018, Pasadena, Calif.
• Independent Authors Conference, hosted by BookBaby, Nov. 2-4, 2018, Philadelphia, $249.
• Philadelphia Writing Workshop, Nov. 17, 2018, Philadelphia, $169.

Additional 2019 events

• Writers Conference of Minnesota. Latest one was held Feb. 17, 2018, in St. Paul, Minn.
• Seymour Agency Writer’s Winter Escape Cruise, Feb. 18-22, 2019, out of Miami for Nassau in the Bahamas and Cozumel, Mexico. A working writer’s retreat that both published and unpublished authors the opportunity to pitch NY editors and LA film producers, attend sessions and network with other industry professionals.
• Sleuthfest. Latest one was held March 1-4, 2018, in Boca Raton, Fla. Annual gathering of mystery, suspense and thriller writers sponsored by the Florida chapter of Mystery Writers of America.
• Stokercon, put on by the Horror Writers Association. Latest one held March 1-4, 2018, in Providence, R.I.; cost was $200-$225 in 2018.
• Atlanta Writing Workshop. Latest one was held March 10, 2018, in Atlanta, Ga., $169.
• Left Coast Crime. March 28-31, 2019, Vancouver, Canada, $300 CAD until Dec. 31, 2018.
• DragonCon. Aug. 29 to Sept. 2, 2019, Atanta.

Related readings

• Publishing conferences & book fairs: What’s in them for self-published authors? (Debbie Young of ALLi)
• Authors, Don’t Waste your Money: Book Fair Bewares (David Gaughran at ALLi)
• Authors: Think Twice Before Paying to Exhibit at Book Expo (Jane Friedman)
• What Mystery Conventions Are You Going To in 2018? (Mysteristas)

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