WriterCon 2026 adds top authors and agents to Oklahoma City lineup

WriterCon will return Sept. 4-7, 2026, at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City with four days of workshops, pitch sessions, and networking for writers at every stage. The 19th annual conference is highlighting a faculty lineup that includes William Martin, Lou Berney, and other bestselling authors as it opens registration.

Why it matters: - WriterCon 2026 is built for writers seeking publishing access, not just craft training. - The conference combines instruction, networking, and live pitching opportunities in one event. - The lineup gives emerging and established authors direct contact with agents, editors, publishers, and bestselling writers.

What happened: - WriterCon 2026 is scheduled for Sept. 4-7, 2026, at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City. - The event is the 19th annual WriterCon. - Registration is now open, and the complete conference schedule is available online.

The details: - William Martin, a #1 New York Times-bestselling author, will appear at WriterCon for the first time. - Dan Martin will join William Martin for a public father-and-son conversation on stage. - William Martin has reached the New York Times list 14 times, beginning with Back Bay and most recently with December ’41. - Lou Berney, an Edgar Award-winning novelist, is the only Oklahoma author to have received the Edgar Award. - USA Today-bestselling authors Kelsey Humphreys and Lauren Smith are also on the faculty. - Pitchapalooza will let aspiring authors pitch books to multiple literary agents at one time. - The conference will offer dozens of sessions on novel writing, nonfiction, mystery, romance, romantasy, horror, fantasy, historical fiction, character development, dialogue, editing, marketing, book promotion, independent publishing, traditional publishing, and long-term author career building. - Social events include a complimentary Friday lunch, WriterCon Jeopardy, WriterCon Karaoke, and a new event called Singo!, a music-themed interactive game. - The educational tracks are designed for first-time writers as well as experienced authors. - First-time writers can focus on storytelling and publishing fundamentals. - Experienced authors can explore advanced marketing, publishing trends, business development, and audience growth.

Between the lines: - WriterCon is leaning into its role as both a learning event and a business-building venue for writers. - The Pitchapalooza format reflects the conference’s emphasis on direct access and faster connection to publishing professionals. - The addition of Singo! suggests WriterCon is also trying to strengthen the networking side of the event. - Founder William Bernhardt framed the conference as a way to give writers practical knowledge, meaningful relationships, and publishing opportunities.

What's next: - Attendees can review the full schedule online and register ahead of the conference. - WriterCon will bring together four days of programming, with sessions and events aimed at helping writers finish manuscripts, seek representation, launch books, or grow their careers. - Early registration is encouraged.

The bottom line: - WriterCon 2026 is positioning itself as a high-value destination for writers who want education, industry access, and community in one place.