“Either write something worth reading, or do something worth writing,” is a Benjamin Franklin quote many writers hold true, and on Friday, Aug. 16 through Sunday, Aug. 18, local writers can head to the inaugural Emerging Writers Festival to sharpen their craft.
The festival will be held in Old Town Alexandria with free and low-cost writing programs throughout the three days, featuring courses on how to pitch to editors and agents, craft classes and author meet-and-greets.
Courses will be taught by professional writers, editors and book industry experts, and tuition scholarships are available for writers in need of financial support.
Notable authors in attendance include Catherine Chung (The Tenth Muse), Tope Folarin (A Particular Kind of Black Man) and Food & Wine’s best new chef awardee Kwame Onwuachi (Notes from a Young Black Chef).
The event will also include public author talks and a book fair featuring hand-bound book, small/independent press books and representatives from literacy arts organizations and national organizations, like PEN America and the Smithsonian Libraries.
The Emerging Writers Festival will take place at The Athenaeum, ALX Community and the Carlyle House. Check the website for scheduling and more information. // The Athenaeum: 201 Prince St., Alexandria; ALX Community: 106 N. Lee St., Alexandria; The Carlyle House: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria; public events free, courses for writers between $75-$250
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