Area Events for Writers

Whether you’re looking for feedback on your work, inspiration for your next story, a new book to discover, or a chance to connect with fellow writers, there’s plenty to explore this month in Oshkosh!

Oshkosh Area Writers Club
Saturday, Aug. 15 | 10 a.m.


Oshkosh Public Library, lower-level meeting room

Bring your writing, your ideas and your willingness to give and receive feedback. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just beginning your writing journey, the Oshkosh Area Writers Club welcomes new members.

Do You Have a Moment to Talk About Dungeon Crawler Carl? 

 

Saturday, Aug. 15 | 10 a.m.–noon

Oshkosh Public Library

Great stories give writers and readers plenty to talk about—and Dungeon Crawler Carl has a particularly devoted following. Join fellow fans for a lively morning of camaraderie, conversation and swapping strategies for surviving until the next book release.

Enjoy refreshments, fun activities and maybe even a loot box or two. 

Presidential Road Trips with Bill Clevlen
Monday, Aug. 17 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Oshkosh Public Library

Looking for inspiration for your next story—or your next road trip? Nationally syndicated travel reporter, author and Smithsonian Associates lecturer Bill Clevlen of Bill on the Road will take us on a fascinating journey through presidential history and the places that helped shape the nation.

Come hear an experienced storyteller and author share the history and stories behind some memorable American destinations.

Book Signing with Author Brittni Nelson
Saturday, Aug. 29 | 10 a.m.–noon

Author Apothecary & Book Store, 576 N. Main St.

Meet Wisconsin author and middle-school art teacher Brittni Nelson during her summer book tour for The House on Hemlock Hill, published July 30 by Fresh Water Press.

Set on the shore of Lake Winnebago, this middle-grade mystery combines suspense, family secrets and original illustrations.

A State of Healing Anthology Release Celebration
Saturday, Aug. 29 | 6–8 p.m.
Oshkosh Public Library – Waters Building

Close out the month by celebrating Wisconsin writers and the healing power of storytelling.

A State of Healing is a collaborative Wisconsin anthology featuring poetry, prose and personal stories exploring healing, resilience, growth and the experiences that connect us.

The evening will feature readings by anthology contributors, opening remarks from editor G. Anthony, and opportunities for conversation and fellowship with fellow readers and writers.

Writers, contributors, readers, mental health advocates, family members, friends and community members are warmly invited.

Please note: This is an after-hours event. Enter through the Washington Avenue entrance, marked by the library’s iconic lion statues. Regular library services will not be available during the celebration.

Whether you’re looking for feedback, inspiration, story ideas, a new book or simply good company, Oshkosh offers plenty of opportunities for writers to connect this August.

August events

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club Critique Group will meet at 10 a.m. on Saturdays, Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, in the lower-level meeting room at the Oshkosh Public Library.

Whether you're an experienced writer or just getting started, new members are always welcome! Bring a few pages to share or simply come to listen, learn, and connect with fellow writers.

 

 Open Mic: Author Apothecary After Dark – Poetry Edition

Share your work or enjoy an evening of local poetry on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Author Apothecary & Bookstore (576 N. Main St., Oshkosh).

Hosted by Oshkosh Poet Laureate Thomas Cannon, this open mic brings together an eclectic mix of poets from Oshkosh and throughout the Fox Cities.

Schedule
6:30 p.m. – Sign-up
7 p.m. – Readings begin

Whether you're stepping up to the microphone or simply enjoying the performances, everyone is welcome.

A State of Healing Anthology Release Celebration
Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026
, from 6–8 p.m.
Oshkosh Public Library – Waters Building

Join us for the release celebration of A State of Healing, a collaborative Wisconsin anthology exploring healing, resilience, growth, and the human experience through poetry, prose, and personal storytelling.

This special after-hours event will feature contributors from across Wisconsin reading selections from the anthology and sharing the stories behind their work. Together, we'll celebrate the healing power of words and the courage it takes to tell our stories.

Please note: This is an after-hours event. Enter through the Washington Avenue entrance, marked by the library's iconic lion statues. Regular library services will not be available during the celebration.

Upcoming Events for Writers

Summer and fall offer plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow writers, discover new books, sharpen your craft, and celebrate Wisconsin's vibrant literary community. Here are a few events to add to your calendar:

Oshkosh Area Writers Club Meeting

The Oshkosh Area Writers Club will meet at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, in the lower-level conference room of the Oshkosh Public Library.

Whether you're just beginning your writing journey or are an experienced author, the club welcomes writers of all genres and experience levels for discussion, encouragement, and community.

Poetry & Spoken Word at Author Apothecary & Bookstore 

 

 Looking for an inspiring evening of poetry? Join fellow poets and spoken word performers on the first Tuesday of every month at Author Apothecary & Bookstore (576 N. Main St., Oshkosh).

Hosted by Oshkosh Poet Laureate Thomas Cannon, Author Apothecary After Dark: Poetry Edition open mic brings together an eclectic mix of poets from Oshkosh and the Fox Cities. Originally held at NAMI Oshkosh, the event continues to support the organization's mission of promoting mental health and well-being. Donations of any amount are appreciated but never required.

Sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m.

Registration Open for the Wisconsin Writers Association Fall Conference

Registration is now open for the Wisconsin Writers Association (WWA) Fall Conference, taking place October 23–24, 2026, in Manitowoc, WI.

This two-day conference features keynote speakers Amy E. Reichert and Doug Moe, along with workshops, panel discussions, "Poemwalking," and Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions designed to educate, inspire, and connect writers from across the state.

Don't wait too long—early bird registration ends August 31.

Celebrate Books at the Lakeside Literary Festival

The Lakeside Literary Festival returns on Saturday, August 29, at the Lake Geneva Public Library. This one-day celebration of books, literary creativity, and community offers author talks, book signings, storytelling, and activities for readers and writers of all ages.

Whether you're looking to improve your writing, meet local authors, or simply celebrate the written word, these events offer something for every member of Wisconsin's literary community. 

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!