The West is more than just a place, just as Western writing is more than cowboys or plains or big skies. West Fest is a celebration of the expansiveness of western writing; an exploration of what it means to be writing “the West.” Join us to touch grass in ecowriting, to discuss how this particular setting affects character, to play in the borderlands, and more.
Can’t make it in person? Check out virtual options!
SPECIAL GUESTS
West Fest welcomes special guests Claire Vaye Watkins, the Story Prize-winning author of Yellow Pine, and Deborah Jackson Taffa, author of the memoir Whiskey Tender and a finalist for the National Book Award. We’re also pleased to welcome Nina McConigley (Cowboys and East Indians), Claire Boyles (Appraisals), and, of course, Lighthouse faculty favorites such as William Haywood Henderson (Augusta Locke), Erika Krouse (Tell Me Everything), Helen Thorpe (The Newcomers), Benjamin Whitmer (Cry Father), and more!
Western Sensibilities
Publishing in a Land-Locked State
Rethinking the West
Front Range Poetry Reading
Passes
For those looking for the fullest experience, a pass gets you discounted and exclusive access to multiple events and craft classes.
Craft Seminars
Dive deeper into the craft of writing the West with some of Lighthouse’s favorite instructors.
Panels
Join panels of experts as they discuss the evolution of the Western genre, and what it looks like to publish when living in the West.
Evening Events
Connect even further with writers and readers of the West through exclusive readings and intimate roundtable discussions.
