Writing Contests: A Fun Way to Grow as a Writer

Writing contests are more than just opportunities to win prizes—they're a great way to develop your skills, stay motivated, and connect with the larger writing community. Many writers find that contests help them focus on completing projects and teach the valuable discipline of meeting deadlines. Whether you're a poet, novelist, essayist, or short story writer, entering contests can be both rewarding and fun.

Recently, club members were surveyed about their favorite resources for finding reputable writing contests and opportunities. Here are the sites they recommended most often:

Poets & Writers

The Writing Contests, Grants & Awards database from Poets & Writers is one of the most respected resources available. It includes information on poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, novel awards, grants, and more. Each listing is carefully reviewed before being included, making it a trusted source for legitimate opportunities.

The Submission Grinder

The Submission Grinder is a donation-supported submission tracker and market database for writers of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Its powerful search tools help writers locate publications and contests that are a good fit for their work. Many writers also appreciate its submission-tracking features.

Contest Lists

Contest Lists is dedicated to helping writers and artists locate reputable competitions. The site strives to include only verified and trustworthy opportunities from around the world, making it a useful starting point for anyone looking for contests in a variety of creative fields.

Duotrope

Duotrope has long been considered one of the most trusted resources for writers seeking contests and publication opportunities. This subscription-based service (currently $6 per month) offers an extensive searchable database of contests, publishers, and agents. It also includes a submission tracker, deadline calendar, and valuable statistical information gathered from years of submission data.

Submittable

Submittable maintains a large and frequently updated list of opportunities for writers, including contests, grants, fellowships, and calls for submissions. Its discovery platform makes it easy to browse opportunities by genre, category, and deadline.

NewPages

The NewPages Guide to Writing Contests features a comprehensive collection of opportunities, including magazine contests, book contests, chapbook contests, audio and video competitions, and more. The site is especially useful for writers interested in independent publishers, literary magazines, writing programs, conferences, and festivals.

Ready to Enter?

Writing contests can challenge you to finish work, experiment with new ideas, and share your writing with a broader audience. Even when you don't win, the experience of completing and submitting your work can be valuable. If you're looking for motivation, inspiration, or simply a new writing adventure, consider exploring one of these trusted resources and finding a contest that sparks your interest.

Happy writing—and good luck!

Literary Events Fill Saturday, June 20

Book lovers and writers will find plenty to enjoy on Saturday, June 20, with several literary events taking place in Oshkosh.

Writers Club Meeting and Author Talk
The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. at the Oshkosh Public Library. Meetings are free and open to anyone age 17 and older.

Also at 10 a.m., author Karl L. Stewart will discuss his 2025 historical fiction novel, Charlie’s Wings. Set in 1918 during World War I, the novel follows Charlie Carter, a young American pilot fighting in the skies over France as part of a new generation of aerial warriors.

Meet Author Julian Greystoke

 

After the Writers Club meeting, stop by Caramel Crisp Bookstore, 200 City Center, where Oshkosh LGBTQ fantasy author and developmental editor Julian Greystoke will be signing books and meeting readers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Greystoke is the author of several character-driven fantasy novels, including the cozy Adventurer Mage series. Her first science fiction novel, Song of Battle, is scheduled for release later this summer.

Meeting reminder and more!

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, in the lower level of the Oshkosh Public Library. New members welcomed!

Please keep in mind that the Oshkosh Farmers Market will be in full swing downtown that morning, which may result in traffic congestion and limited parking. Plan accordingly and allow yourself extra travel time.

While you're downtown, be sure to stop by Author Apothecary & Bookstore, 576 N. Main Street, for its Grand Opening Celebration from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 6. Browse signed copies of romance novels by Kat Crowe and enjoy a variety of literary-themed creations from local vendors, including book mold soaps, essential oils, crocheted book character stuffies, crystal candles, handmade book jewelry, and more.

Club member and Oshkosh poet Tom Cannon will be the featured poet at Creative Space Healing Art's Poetry Open Mic at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, at 1231 S. Webster Ave., Green Bay. Designed for the "messy, meaningful work of being human," this welcoming event offers writers and listeners of all skill levels a safe space to share their work and connect with others through poetry.

Lastly, mark your calendars for the Annual Hedberg Public Library Book Fest, June 19–27, 2026 in Janesville. The literacy event features free workshops on character development, writing methods, querying, working with an editor, and much more.

Featured authors include Lesley Kagen and Pao Lor, along with returning special guests Maggie Ginsberg and Ann Garvin.

New for 2026: Book Fest is expanding to include a full week of more than 20 author events throughout Downtown Janesville, culminating in the Book Fest Author Fair at the Janesville Farmers Market on Saturday, June 27.

There is no cost to attend. Registration for individual workshops is recommended.

We hope to see you at the meeting and at these exciting literary events throughout the month!

Looking for a Creative Summer Hobby?

Now that summer is upon us, many creative people are looking for a new hobby, a fresh source of inspiration, or a welcoming community to share their work with. Whether you’re an experienced writer, just getting started, or simply curious about storytelling, the Oshkosh Area Writers Club offers a supportive environment for writers of all backgrounds and skill levels.

Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about our group.

Who can attend?
Meetings are open to anyone age 17 and older. Our group includes writers of many genres and experience levels, from beginners to published authors.

Is there a fee?
No. Membership is free. If you enjoy the group, we’d appreciate it if you liked us on Facebook and followed our blog at oshkoshwriters.blogspot.com

Meeting details
We meet at 10 a.m. on the first and third Saturday of each month in the lower-level conference room of the Oshkosh Public Library, 106 Washington Ave., Oshkosh.

How many members are there?
We have about 14 regular members, with others attending as their schedules allow. Meetings typically include anywhere from 10 to 22 people. Some members are beginning writers, while others have been published or have agents and book contracts.

What can I expect at a meeting?
Meetings begin with brief introductions and announcements. We then move into critiques.

Writers may read up to five minutes of their work aloud. Bringing eight printed copies is appreciated, but not required. We use a critique form designed to provide both positive feedback and constructive suggestions.

Note: Not everyone reads at every meeting. Reading order is based on arrival time — the first person to arrive is the first to read. Meetings end promptly at noon, even if there are still people waiting to read.

For members with completed manuscripts or longer works, we can arrange separate critique opportunities outside the regular meeting format.

What else does the club do?
Throughout the year, we host free programs at the library, including author visits, workshops, and writing-related activities and we occasionally arrange car pools to area literary events. 

We also partner with the Oshkosh Public Library to help organize the Lakefly Writers Conference and Book Fair each May at the Oshkosh Convention Center.

Still not sure if we're right for you?
The best way to find out is to attend a meeting and see whether the group is a good fit for you. New visitors are always welcome!

Meeting reminder and more!

The Oshkosh writing community continues to thrive through local events, independent bookstores, and the writers and readers who support one another.

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at the Oshkosh Public Library. The group offers writers a chance to connect, share ideas, and encourage each other’s creative journeys. New members are welcome.

Attention, Crawlers!
Fantasy fans can also look forward to a special virtual event at the Oshkosh Public Library on June 11 at 6 p.m. featuring Matt Dinniman, creator of the Dungeon Crawler Carl universe. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes or themed attire for a chance to win fan merchandise while enjoying themed drinks and connecting with fellow readers. Registration is required.

New Book Store!
Adding to the local literary scene is Author Apothecary & Bookstore, a new independent, woman- and author-owned bookstore at 576 N. Main Street in Oshkosh. The shop curates books and “Reader Remedy Bundles” designed to create a cozy reading experience. Its Grand Opening will take place June 6.

Readers and writers can also attend the Block of Books Local Author Fair at The Book Store in Appleton on Saturday, May 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature 50 authors along the 800 block of W. College Avenue.

Whether writing a first page or searching for the next great read, these events highlight the strong and growing literary community within the Oshkosh area.

Meeting reminder and more!

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 18, in the lower-level conference room at the Oshkosh Public Library. Meetings are free and open to anyone 17 and older. 

Lakefly Workshop Highlight


Beth Amos (writing as Annelise Ryan) will present a 90-minute session, “The ABCs of Character Development,” focused on building compelling, believable characters at the Lakefly Writers Conference.

Check out this interview about her Wisconsin-set mystery series:
 Local Author Continues Her Monster Mystery Series Now Set in Wisconsin!

Local Author Continues Her Monster Mystery Series Now Set in Wisconsin!

Author Event


Oshkosh author and photographer Michael J. Cooney will share stories and images from his books from 10 a.m. to noon April 18 at Caramel Crisp in downtown Oshkosh. His works include Wisconsin Man Art: Big, Bold, Visionary Art Environments and Exploring with a Pilgrim’s Heart: Wisconsin Shrines, Chapels and Grottos.

Take Your Writing to the Next Level—Without Breaking the Bank!

Are you ready to elevate your writing and connect with fellow creatives? 

Wisconsin’s premier writing event, the Lakefly Writers Conference, is coming to the Oshkosh Convention Center on May 1–2, 2026—and it’s packed with opportunities for writers at every stage.

 From 20+ engaging sessions to one-on-one time with industry experts, plus a book fair and networking opportunities, Lakefly is more than just a conference—it’s an investment in your craft and your creative community.

Early bird registration is just $125 if you sign up before April 23. Don’t miss this chance to gain insights, inspiration, and connections that can help take your writing to new heights.

Register today: https://lakeflywriters.org/registration/

Sponsored by the Oshkosh Public Library, with support from the Oshkosh Community Foundation, Oshkosh Area Writers Club and OrangeHat Publishing, Lakefly Writers Conference is your gateway to learning, networking, and growing as a writer.

Join us this May—your next writing breakthrough awaits!

Meeting reminder and more!

Spring is shaping up to be an exciting time for the Oshkosh Area Writers Club, with plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and get inspired.

We’ll kick things off with our next meeting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 21 at the Oshkosh Public Library. As always, it’s a great chance to share work, exchange ideas, and enjoy the company of fellow writers.

A Special Literary Night in Appleton

One of our own, Larissa Antonioni, will be featured at a unique book event from 6–8 p.m. on Saturday, March 28 at Tardigrades Bookshelf in Appleton. Serving as both author and guest bartender, Larissa will be mixing drinks while discussing her work, A Realm of Lies and Power.

If you’ve never attended a literary event like this, it’s a fun and relaxed way to engage with a local author and the writing community.

Learn Something New: Gale Writing Courses

Earlier that same day, at 10 a.m. on March 28, writers can head to the Oshkosh Public Library for Spark Your Story with Gale Writing Courses. This session introduces a wide range of free, instructor-led online classes available with a library card.

Participants will learn how to:

• Choose from more than 25 writing courses, including creative, business, technical, and grant writing

• Navigate the Gale platform and review course outlines

• Select the right class and build a plan for success

Courses run for six weeks and require about two hours of work per week, making them a manageable way to grow your skills.

Submission Opportunity

If you’re ready to share your writing, Unwashed, a creative writing and art journal based in Bay View, is currently accepting submissions through May 31. Open to both new and established writers, they are interested in a wide range of creative work.

Meeting reminder - Feb. 21

 
The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Oshkosh Public Library. 
 
Meetings are free and open to anyone age 17 and older. The group welcomes writers of all genres and skill levels, creating a supportive and diverse environment for creativity and growth.

Each meeting begins with brief introductions and general announcements, followed by critique sessions. During critiques, a participant reads up to four pages of their work aloud, and the group offers constructive feedback. Not everyone reads at every meeting, so attendees are welcome to participate without sharing their writing. Check us out!

Meeting Reminder - Feb. 7

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Oshkosh Public Library.  

Meetings are free and open to anyone 17 and older. 

New members welcome!

Lakefly Writing Contests Now Open

Writers, it’s time! 

Submissions are now open for the Lakefly Writing Contests. There is no entry fee, and cash prizes will be awarded.

The contests feature four categories, including one for teens, and are open to Wisconsin residents only.

The submission deadline is February 23. Winners will be announced at the Lakefly Writers Conference, held May 1–2 at the Oshkosh Convention Center. Attendance at the conference is not required to win.

For submission guidelines, visit lakeflywriters.org.

The Lakefly Writing Contests are sponsored by the OshkoshPublic Library; Members of the Lakefly Planning Conference are not eligible to participate.

Meeting reminder and more!

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Oshkosh Public Library. New members welcome!

The Lakefly Writing Contests are accepting entries through Feb. 23. No entry fee; cash prizes. Sponsored by the Oshkosh Public Library, the winners will be announced at the Lakefly Writers Conference, May 1-2. Sorry, members of the Lakefly Planning Committee are not eligible to enter! 


DIY Headshots with Your Phone
January 26, 2026, 7:00pm


Neenah Public Library

Learn how to take your own headshot or high-quality photo using just your phone. Adam Shea, a local photographer, will guide you through the steps of how to pose, edit and style your photo. This is a hands-on workshop, perfect for beginners. Just bring a smartphone with a working camera and Adam will help you get started! No registration necessary for this free event.

Freak Camp on audio!

Bailey Hansen is excited to announce Freak Camp, the first book in the A Monster By Any Other Name series, is now available in audiobook form on Audible! It will be available on more platforms in the future. 

This audio edition, narrated by Christian Leatherman, brings the heartache and danger of the print and ebook versions into stark relief. The book is just under 12 hours and currently has a 4.8 star rating on Audible.

Free Writing Classes

Achieve your writing goals with these free classes available through Gale Courses, accessible your Oshkosh Public Library card. 

Courses require a 24-hour commitment over a six-week period. Don't have a library card? Apply for a temporary card here.

The next semester begins Jan. 14 - register now!

Here’s a sample of the 20+ class offerings on creative writing:

Beginning Writer’s Workshop

Like a true writing workshop, you will learn literary techniques, peer review a classmate's work, and receive constructive criticism on your work.

In addition, you will learn how to move your work from the prewriting stage to editing and final revision. You will also learn how to use literary devices, meaningful dialogue, and imagery in your different drafts. By the end of this online workshop, you will have a thoroughly developed creative writing piece. You might even be ready for publication!

Introduction to Journaling

If you have ever wanted to try journaling, this course will provide answers to your every question. You will discover the different types of journaling and many journaling techniques, exercises, tools and resources. You will explore a seven-step process that will ease you into writing a journal. You will get detailed instructions on developing, decorating, and customizing your journal, and you will learn exciting new ways to express yourself and develop your creativity.

Writing for Children

Discover what you need to know to write for children. You will explore the changing world of children's literature and understand the various formats, including picture books, chapter books, middle grade or young adult novels. You will get insights from publishing professionals to gain a better understanding of the needs of today's market. By the time you finish this course, you will have all the tools and resources you will need to begin navigation the world of children's publishing and to continue growing as a writer for children.

Write Your Life Story

Have you thought about writing your story, sharing life-altering events? Does your family really know about their heritage? If you've ever thought about writing your life story, now is the time!

In this course, you will have the satisfaction of telling history your way. You will learn how to bring characters to life, recall vivid memories, engage readers, and even manage your creative time. You may even find a lucrative market for your story, just like the authors of the bestselling Rocket Boys and Angela's Ashes. This course walks you step-by-step through the process of writing your life story. It's fun. It's exciting. It's a story only you can tell!

Writeriffic: Creative Training for Writers

Who doesn't know the fear of the blank page? How can you transform your visions into the written word? Is it really possible to become a terrific writer? You'll find the answer to these and more of your questions in Writeriffic.

In this high-energy course, you will learn a number of invaluable tricks from the published writer's toolbox. Whether you're at work now or hoping to write a novel, a nonfiction book, a memoir, short stories or articles, Writeriffic liberates the imaginative, inventive bolts of genius that are inside everyone. If you've ever dreamed of hearing your writer's voice and writing.

Writing the Fantasy Novel

Fantasy is an increasingly popular genre of fiction, and now is a great time to become a fantasy fiction writer! This course is perfect whether you have an idea for a book or even if you don't know where to start. With the tools you'll gain in this course, you'll be ready to tackle your first fantasy novel.

In this course, you will learn what separates fantasy fiction from other types of fiction. You will also discover how to create characters and populate your world with unique, compelling, and interesting creatures. You'll learn how to outline your book, come up with a theme, and commit to actually writing. Finally, you'll get a number of tips about how to stay motivated and complete your novel - because, after all, writing is hard work!

Congrats Mark Putzi

Congrats to Mark Putzi! 

Since he started coming to the Oshkosh Area Writers Club in 2025, he's published:

‘Enri the Useful Idiot’ in the Words Faire
 
"Solve for X" in Black Fork Review

and three shorts scheduled to drop in issue 38 of 100 Subtexts Magazine. 

Open Mic - Jan. 6

NAMI of Oshkosh will host an open mic at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6. Oshkosh Poet Laurette Thomas Cannon is the emcee. Free and open to the public.

Meeting reminder: Jan. 3

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, in the lower level conference room of the Oshkosh Public Library. 

 

Membership is free to anyone 17 and older; new writers welcome!