Events Calendar
Discover a day devoted entirely to your craft at the Sonoran Writers Conference, a premier gathering for writers ready to elevate their storytelling, publishing knowledge, and creative confidence. Held in the heart of beautiful Mesa, this one-day event brings together award-winning authors, industry professionals, editors, and passionate creatives for an inspiring, high-impact literary experience.
Whether you’re polishing your first manuscript, building your author platform, exploring indie publishing, or honing advanced craft skills, the Sonoran Writers Conference offers dynamic sessions that meet you where you are and help you grow. Engage with expert-led panels, hands-on workshops, roundtable conversations, and meaningful networking opportunities that connect you directly with fellow writers and publishing pros.
You’ll walk away with:
• Actionable strategies for improving your writing and navigating the publishing world
• Professional insights that clarify your next steps as an author
• New connections with writers who share your passion
• Motivation and momentum to finish your project—or start your next one
The conference is crafted to be welcoming, energizing, and deeply supportive of the writing journey. If you're looking for a place to learn, to level up, or simply to reignite your creativity, this event was built for you.
Join us for a transformative day of storytelling, community, and inspiration.
Your next chapter begins at the Sonoran Writers Conference.
Date & Time
- The conference is one day, Saturday, May 9, 2026.
- The Conference is located at Benedictine University, 225 E Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201
Registration
Early Registration is $69 (Before Feb 15, 2026)
Regular Registration is $79 (February 16, 2026-April 17, 2026)
Late Registration is $89 (April 18-May 4, 2026)
On site Registration day of is $99
Agenda Summary
- Check In begins at 7:30am
- Opening Keynote at 8:00am
- Concurrent panel schedule begins at 8:30am
- Last panels start at 4:00pm
- Event Concludes at 5:00pm
2026 Keynote:
To Be Announced
Welcome GBS Books
GBS Books (Gardner’s Book Service), a family owned business since 1983, is dedicated to meeting the needs of schools and educators. We consistently provide a great selection of books and materials at quantity discount prices and deliver them with superior customer service.
GBS Books will be handling sales for all of our presenters and special guests for the day.
Welcome To Sisters in Crime
Desert Sleuths Chapter
Join us in welcoming our 2025 Programming Partner, the Sisters in Crime Desert Sleuths Chapter! They and their authors will be all over the site that day to make sure you are finding the best programming no matter WHAT genre you write in.
Welcome To Publisher Brick Cave Media
Publishing Science Fiction, Fantasy and Poetry in Mesa for almost 20 years, Brick Cave is one of the leading small press' in Arizona. AND, as part of the day, you can schedule session to pitch YOUR manuscript.
And More
We have so much more planned for this great day, so make sure you get registered right away to hold your place for the big day!
