Chicago Writers Association upcoming events

2027 Speakers Bureau Listings (November 01, 2026)

Sun, 01 Nov 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Since its launch in 2009, the CWA Speakers Bureau has provided CWA members with a valuable opportunity to book events, build their individual platforms, and sell books, while simultaneously offering event programmers a trusted resource to guide their programming efforts.

Speakers Bureau: https://www.chicagowrites.org/speakers-bureau

For CWA members interested in joining, here are the details:

The CWA Speakers Bureau is open to current CWA members only.
One program listing costs $85. Two program listings cost $135. Three program listings, the maximum number allowed, cost $175. Pricing is subject to change each cycle.
Pay online through the registration form.
Payment is due November 29, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CST.
Listings are active for one calendar year and will expire at the end of 2027.
You must submit your program profile/menu listing to the submission form on the CWA website by 11:59 p.m. CST on November 29, 2026. This is a firm deadline with no exceptions.
Right down to punctuation and capitalization, each menu listing should follow the Speakers Bureau’s standard format, which is:

“Title of the Program” by Presenter’s Name

Program description of no more than 75 words. Note whether the presentation includes handouts, booklets, a Q&A, or other materials. (Include intended audience; presentation length in minutes; fee and special requests, including travel reimbursement or permission to sell books, along with presentation format, in-person, virtual, or both.)

References: Up to two professional references, ideally, should be able to comment on the program being offered, along with names and contact information.

Website: If available, list your website or blog address. Do not include social media profiles.

Contact Info: Provide your email address and phone number(s)

Here is a specific example to follow:

“Chicago Genealogy 101” by Grace DuMelle

Learn the challenges of searching for your Windy City relations from Grace DuMelle, author of Finding Your Chicago Ancestors and head of Heartland Historical Research. Discover lesser-known sources for family historians – fire insurance maps, probate cases,inquest records, and more – that can open a window into your ancestors’ world. Includes handouts, Q&A. (Adults; 60 min; In-person $150 with permission to sell books; $50 virtual)

References: John Smith, Evanston Public Library, (847) 555-1212, jsmith@library.com; Mary Jones, Oak Lawn Public Library, (708) 555-1212, mary@library.org

Website: www.websiteURL.com

Contact: example@ameritech.net, (312) 555-1212

For additional reference, view the most recent CWA Speakers Bureau menu: https://www.chicagowrites.org/speakers-bureau

Important notes:

All presentations are subject to CWA approval and listings will be edited as necessary to meet style, space, and tone requirements.
If an event programmer wishes to schedule a program, he/she will contact the member directly. It is each member’s responsibility to handle such queries in a professional manner. The CWA does not function as an intermediary or actively schedule programs for Speakers Bureau members.
There is no guarantee Speakers Bureau members will get booked for an event.
In the opening week of January 2027, the CWA will finalize and post its 2027 CWA Speakers Bureau Menu to the CWA website and distribute a hard copy of the menu to some 200 Chicago area libraries and venues.

Please contact CWA Speakers Bureau director Daniel Smith at 708.717.6126 or smithwriting@gmail.com with any questions.

Chicago Writes Winter Retreat (November 13, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

This event is open to CWA dues-paying members only.

NOT A MEMBER? Join today! Get your $25 Annual Membership HERE!

Step away from the distractions of everyday life and enjoy four days dedicated to your writing. The CWA Winter Retreat offers a peaceful setting, comfortable accommodations, and plenty of uninterrupted time to write, reflect, and connect with fellow writers.

Registration

$795 through September 30
$850 beginning October 1

What's Included

Registration includes:

Three-night stay in a private room with private bathroom
Welcome reception
Saturday and Sunday breakfasts
Saturday casual dinner and Sunday dinner
Hosted writing sprints
Guest speakers (TBA)
Community activities and prizes
Evening cash bar
Full access to the mansion and grounds

Lunches are on your own, with nearby dining options in Monticello or grazing boards at the retreat.

Location

The retreat takes place at Allerton Park & Retreat Center, where participants can enjoy historic accommodations, beautiful gardens, wooded trails, and quiet spaces designed for inspiration.

2027 Sponsorship for Let's Just Write! (June 12, 2027)

Sat, 12 Jun 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Let’s Just Write! Chicago Writers Association Conference will take place on June 12, 2027 the iconic Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago.

Sponsoring our event provides an opportunity to directly connect your brand with a highly engaged and relevant audience:

• Reach an audience of dedicated writers and publishing enthusiasts.

• Showcase your commitment to literacy and the creative arts.

• Position your organization as a key supporter of professional development and the writing community.

PLEASE NOTE: Sponsorships levels received after May 20, 2027 will include everything below except your logo in the program, as the programs will be in production at that time.

Sponsorship levels:

• LEVEL 1: $500 – Sponsor table at conference; logo placement in conference program; logo with click-through in our newsletter, website and social media; inclusion of your company’s printed materials in our conference bag.

• LEVEL 2: $300 – Logo placement in conference program; logo with click-through in our newsletter, website and social media; inclusion of your company’s brochure or printed incentive in our conference bag.

• LEVEL 3: $100 – Logo placement in conference program; logo with click-through on our website.

There will be no refunds.