News Summary
Acorn Publishing is hosting a contest to discover new literary talent at the upcoming San Diego Writers Festival. The winner will receive a publishing package worth over $11,000. Submissions open on August 15 and will be judged by Acorn’s editorial team and industry professionals. This festival aims to encourage participation from diverse voices, featuring over 100 speakers and various activities for both writers and readers, held in a community-centric environment.
San Diego – Acorn Publishing is launching a contest aimed at uncovering fresh literary talent during the 2026 San Diego Writers Festival. The festival, known for showcasing established authors such as Anne Lamott, James Patterson, and Piper Kerman, will feature one unpublished author who wins a comprehensive publishing package valued at over $11,000, completely free of charge. The competition seeks to highlight new voices in literature and will announce the contest winner live at the festival, which is expected to attract around 2,000 visitors annually.
Submissions for the contest will be accepted starting August 15 through the Acorn Publishing website. Judging will be conducted by Acorn’s editorial team along with various industry professionals, including literary agents, librarians, and award-winning authors. Criteria for selection include the manuscript’s voice, execution, and potential to stand out in the literary market.
The San Diego Writers Festival seeks to cultivate a supportive environment, encouraging participation from those who may feel disconnected from the literary world. It aims to spark creativity among both writers and readers. The festival is expected to feature over 100 speakers and provide a range of activities, including panel discussions, workshops, and live performances. Attendees can look forward to themed panels on various genres, marketing workshops, and networking opportunities with editors and agents.
Festivities will also include food trucks and local music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for community engagement. Workshops will be facilitated by seasoned industry professionals, offering valuable insights and guidance for aspiring authors. The Coronado Public Library will serve as the venue for the event, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to being a community-centric gathering that fosters literary connection.
As part of its mission to support emerging writers, Acorn Publishing, recognized for its hybrid publishing model, emphasizes the importance of providing various resources and services for authors. The festival has previously provided a platform for literary growth and professional development, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Registration for the festival and further details can be accessed through its official website. In an effort to maintain accessibility, the event will be free for all attendees, setting it apart from more exclusive writers’ conferences that often charge substantial fees.
With the festival hoping to discover bold new voices and connect attendees with established professionals, the 2026 San Diego Writers Festival promises to be an enriching experience for all involved. The combination of emerging talent showcased through the contest and the broad array of activities planned underscores the festival’s dedication to nurturing the literary community.
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Additional Resources
- Times of San Diego: Acorn Pub Launches Search for Next Author
- San Diego Union Tribune: Upcoming San Diego Writers Festival
- San Diego Magazine: Weekend Events August 20-24
- Google Search: San Diego Writers Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Writing Festivals
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