Whistler Writers Fest Turns 25
September 23rd, 2026
The Whistler Writers Fest marks a quarter-century of connecting storytellers and readers this fall, kicking off its 25th anniversary on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The opening-day slate features celebrated Canadian and international authors, intensive publishing industry workshops, and a showcase of local Sea to Sky talent.
The anniversary program begins online with two professional development sessions designed for emerging and established writers:
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Workshop 1: Break out! Chat with Canadian Publishing Industry Pros (10:30 AM PT, Online): Moderated by Katherine Fawcett, this interactive panel brings together Adrienne Kerr (Simon & Schuster Canada), Claire Lin (Douglas & McIntyre), Julia McDowell (Penguin Random House Canada), and literary agent Gemma Paynter (PS Literary Agency) for publishing insights and intimate breakout discussions. Sponsored by SFU Continuing Studies: The Writer’s Studio.
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Workshop 2: Pitch In! Tell Your Story to a Canadian Publishing Pro (1:30–4:30 PM PT, Online): Authors receive 15 minutes of one-on-one pitch and consultation time with Canadian acquiring editors and agents, including JC Cham (Arsenal Pulp Press), Anna Comfort O’Keeffe (Douglas & McIntyre/Harbour Publishing), and Vici Johnstone (Caitlin Press/Dagger Editions).
Evening events shift to live literary conversations and readings:
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Three Generations: In Conversation with Michelle Good and Zak Jones (5:00 PM PT): Local writer Brandon Barrett hosts a dialogue on family lineage and intergenerational storytelling with Michelle Good (bestselling author of Five Little Indians), presenting her new multi-generational Cree family saga Eliza Sunshine, and US Army veteran Zak Jones, discussing his gothic debut novel Fancy Gap. Sponsored by the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.
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Celebrating Sea to Sky Storytellers (7:30 PM PT at the Whistler Public Library): A tribute to regional voices featuring Heather Hendrie (Where the Eff is My Red Tent?), poet bronwyn preece (hiking beyond: poems from the trail), and veteran search-and-rescue leader Brad Sills (Echoes on the Wind). Sponsored by Nesters Market.
Tickets and registration for all festival sessions are available through the festival’s official website: Whistler Writers Festival Tickets
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