Summer Writing & Arts Summit

What is the Summer Writing & Arts Summit?

The Summer Writing & Arts Summit is an enriching event that brings together students, faculty, writers, and artists from our community to participate in workshops, presentations, and collaborative sessions designed to enhance writing skills, showcase talent, and foster a creative culture in and around north Alabama. In addition to writing, art and music workshops, we also have food trucks and vendors on site. Each year, in conjunction with the Summer Writing & Arts Summit, we have a writing and art contest, publish a program book and–at the end of the year–a literary journal, The Athena’s Web, that publishes the creative works of those in our community–many of whom attend the Summit.

Donโ€™t miss the 2026 Summer Writing Summit! Join our mailing list today to receive updates.

2026 writing summit banner

Itโ€™s that time again! Weโ€™re excited to announce that registration is now open for the 4th Annual Summer Writing & Arts Summit hosted by the Athens State University Writing Center.

Register for one or both days:

2026 Summit Program

The Summit brings together writers and creatives from across our community for two days of workshops, presentations, and collaborative sessions that support skill-building and creative work. This year, the Summit will include music and songwriting!

Whether youโ€™re returning to the Summit or joining us for the first time, youโ€™ll find yourself among friends. From poetry and songwriting to publishing and creative collaboration, the Summit offers something for everyone.

Hear from featured writers and musicians, explore sessions on memoir, storytelling, and craft, and experiment with songwriting, performance, and the creative process. Explore your artistic side through hands-on workshops in textile and visual arts, or take a step back with sessions focused on mindfulness and intentional creative practice.

We are especially honored to welcome back our friend and Alabama Poet Laureate Jacqueline Trimble, who will join us as a featured guest for a reading and workshop centered on poetry and voice. And of course, one of the Summitโ€™s favorite traditions returns Thursday evening with the annual Open Mic, featuring readings and performances from Summit participants alongside the announcement of this yearโ€™s Athenaโ€™s Web Writing & Art Contest winners.

Spend some time at the Arts & Authors Fair browsing books and wares from local authors and creators, and grab lunch at the Food Truck Picnic, a laid-back space to gather, eat, and recharge between sessions.

Weโ€™ll also be highlighting Athens State Universityโ€™s growing music program throughout the Summit, including performances by the Athens State Community Choir, the Athens State Community Band, and the Huntsville Drumline, along with original work from student musicians featured in the ACA Student Spotlight.

The Friday evening Talent Showcase will feature musician, songwriter, and activist Lee Bains, and Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame recording artist Eric Essix in a live celebration that brings the Summit to a close.

The Summit begins at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, and continues Friday, June 26, on the Athens State campus. Registration is free, but space in select sessions is limited.

We canโ€™t wait to see you there!

Check out the highlights from our past Summer Summit Events

2025 Program guide

2024 Program guide and
Recorded Session Playlist

2023 Program guide

Photos

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