Spec Fest celebrates the sprawling world of speculative fiction, nonfiction, and everything in between. Whether you write science fiction, magical realism, or dystopian/utopian surrealism, our craft seminars will provide techniques for worldbuilding and development, as well as opportunities to generate new drafts. Lively panels, with a blend of practical writing advice, philosophical flourishes, and personal anecdotes will add tools and energy to your creative process. Finally, our exclusive evening events will build and nurture your community of like-minded writers during this weekend designed just for you.
Our special guests this year are Rebecca Roanhorse, Nebula and Hugo award-winning author of the Between Earth and Sky epic fantasy trilogy, and Deb Olin Unferth, Guggenheim fellow and award-winning author of seven novels, including Earth 7 and Barn 8. We’ll also welcome Lighthouse favorites R. Alan Brooks, Sarah Elizabeth Schantz, Chris Vanjonack, Theodore McCombs, and more.
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 speculative writing with some of Lighthouse’s favorite instructors.
Panels
Join us for panels led by industry mavens as they discuss what it means to write speculatively, in both the industry sense and the philosophical.
Evening events
Connect even further with your fellow speculative community through in-conversations and exclusive receptions.