A Beloved Regional Writing Tradition Begins Its Next Chapter

The Roanoke Regional Writers Conference is continuing in a new home!

For years, this beloved conference has welcomed writers from throughout the region to learn, connect, and strengthen their craft. In 2027, the conference will move from Hollins University to Southern Virginia University in Buena Vista, with Word Bridge Collective honored to help transition this wonderful tradition into its new Rockbridge County home.

We warmly welcome longtime conference attendees and those joining us for the very first time.

About the Conference

Join us January 15–16, 2027, for two days of inspiration, practical instruction, and meaningful connection with fellow writers.

The conference will feature:

• Two inspiring keynote presentations
• Practical breakout sessions led by experienced writers and industry professionals
• Classes covering writing craft, publishing, marketing, and the writing life
• Opportunities to meet and connect with other writers
• A Friday evening writers’ mixer
• A full day of programming on Saturday

Whether you are beginning your first story, preparing to publish, building an established writing career, or simply looking for a creative community, you are welcome here.

What Your Registration Includes

One registration includes:

• Admission to all Friday and Saturday conference programming
• Friday evening’s opening keynote and writers’ mixer
• Light snacks upon arrival Friday evening
• Saturday’s keynote presentation and breakout sessions
• Coffee and snacks throughout Saturday
• Lunch on Saturday
• Saturday’s closing gathering

Tentative Conference Schedule

Friday, January 15

• 6:30 PM: Registration, Welcome, and Light Snacks
• 7:00 PM: Opening Keynote
• 8:00 PM: Writers’ Mixer
• 8:30 PM: Evening Concludes

Saturday, January 16

• 8:15 AM: Check-In and Coffee
• 9:00 AM: Morning Keynote
• 10:15 AM: Breakout Session One
• 11:20 AM: Breakout Session Two
• 12:15 PM: Lunch
• 1:30 PM: Breakout Session Three
• 2:35 PM: Breakout Session Four
• 3:40 PM: Closing Panel and Conference Gathering
• 4:30 PM: Conference Concludes

Each breakout period will offer multiple session choices, with topics organized around:

• Writing Craft
• Publishing and the Writing Life
• Marketing and Building Your Readership

Registration

Early-Bird Registration: $75 through November 30, 2026

Regular Registration: $100 beginning December 1, 2026

One registration includes admission to the complete two-day conference and the food and refreshments listed above.

Plan Your Visit

We hope you’ll make a weekend of it and enjoy everything Buena Vista and the surrounding Rockbridge area have to offer!

Stay at Meridian Farmstead

A limited number of rooms are available at a special conference rate through Meridian Farmstead, about four miles from the Southern Virginia University campus.

Enjoy a shared homestead experience with some of the best views in Rockbridge County! There are nine bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Each bedroom has two beds and is meant to be shared by two guests, so come with a friend and make a weekend of it.

Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the Meridian Farmstead website for details.

Stay in Buena Vista

For a bed-and-breakfast experience close to campus, consider the newly renovated Blue Ridge Abbey Bed & Breakfast.

Explore more lodging nearby

You’ll also find hotels, inns, and other places to stay in Lexington and throughout Rockbridge County. Browse the local lodging directory to explore more options.

While you’re here, explore Buena Vista’s locally owned shops, restaurants, arts, and downtown attractions through Main Street Buena Vista.

For additional lodging, restaurants, outdoor adventures, historic sites, and attractions throughout Buena Vista, Lexington, and Rockbridge County, visit the official regional tourism website at LexingtonVirginia.com.

Come for the conference, and give yourself a little extra time to experience our beautiful corner of Virginia!