Agnes Scott College Hosts 55th Annual Writers' Festival

The two-day event in Decatur features published authors and a statewide student writing competition.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:51pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus scene of students gathered around a table, their faces obscured in a warm, hazy light, conceptually representing the contemplative and intellectual atmosphere of the writers' festival.The Agnes Scott Writers' Festival provides a nurturing environment for student writers to share their work and be inspired by established authors.Decatur Today

Agnes Scott College is hosting its 55th annual writers' festival on April 9-10 in Decatur, Georgia. The festival, which began in 1972, brings together writers from colleges and universities across the state to share their work and experiences. The event also features a statewide writing contest open to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at Georgia universities, with winners having their work published.

Why it matters

The writers' festival provides an important platform for aspiring student writers to showcase their talents and gain exposure beyond the classroom. It also allows established authors to connect with the next generation of literary voices in Georgia.

The details

The festival features published authors who give readings and discuss their writing process. There is also a statewide writing contest where students can submit fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or playwriting. The winning entries are published as part of the festival. According to Agnes Scott professor Alan Grostephan, the event aims to encourage students to think about writing outside of their usual academic assignments.

  • The writers' festival began in 1972.
  • The 55th annual event is taking place on April 9-10, 2026.

The players

Agnes Scott College

A private liberal arts college located in Decatur, Georgia, that has hosted the annual writers' festival since 1972.

Alan Grostephan

An Agnes Scott professor who oversees the writers' festival and the statewide student writing competition.

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What they’re saying

“There wasn't really something like this in the south or in Atlanta that would just bring writers together from all of the different Georgia universities and colleges.”

— Alan Grostephan, Professor, Agnes Scott College

“When they submit to the festival, they're putting themselves out into the world with their writing, and they get published if their work is chosen.”

— Alan Grostephan, Professor, Agnes Scott College

What’s next

The 55th annual Agnes Scott College Writers' Festival will take place on April 9-10, 2026, featuring readings, panels, and the announcement of the winners of the statewide student writing competition.

The takeaway

The Agnes Scott College Writers' Festival has provided a valuable platform for aspiring writers in Georgia for over five decades, fostering connections between students and established authors while celebrating the literary talents of the state.