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.