Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference
Organized by Arizona State University
The Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference, an annual creative writing conference at Arizona State University (ASU), features nationally recognized writers presen...
- Dates
- Oct 16-17, 2026
- Location
- Tempe, AZ
- Deadline
- Sep 30, 2026
- Attendees
- 500
- Vendors
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About this conference
The Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference, an annual creative writing conference at Arizona State University (ASU), features nationally recognized writers presenting a variety of classes, workshops, panels, and craft talks on creative writing art and practice. This year's theme, 'Pushing the Envelope: Risk and Vulnerability,' encourages writers to explore testing limits, taking risks, and finding the courage to deepen their work within a generous and attentive community. Attendees can expect lessons learned, examinations of craft and content risks, and mutual support in listening for the heart of their stories. The 2026 keynote speaker is bestselling novelist Stephen Graham Jones.
Sponsorship options
Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels, including Platinum Star ($10,000), Gold Star ($5,500), Silver Star ($3,500), Bronze Star ($2,500), Maroon Star ($1,200), Green Star ($500), and DNRS Scholarship Sponsor ($1,500). Benefits include free conference registrations, logo and listing in the digital conference planner, exhibitor space in the Book Fair, 'presented by' credit for Keynote, signage, tote, website, landing page ads in the conference app, social media mentions, and invitations to the VIP welcome reception.
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Roles and teams represented at Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference
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