The Desert Nights, Rising Stars
Writers Conference

February 21 - 22, 2020 at Arizona State University

While the Piper Center regularly offers creative writing classes and workshops through the Piper Writers Studio throughout the year, the Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference is the crown jewel of our educational programming, bringing together over 300 writers from all backgrounds, genres, and levels of experience for two days of literary craft, culture, and community every late February at ASU Tempe.

About our Conference

Our conference offers a unique and intimate creative writing experience that meets people wherever they are, creating a warm, welcoming and supportive environment where writers learn from each other as they work towards their goals.

To learn more about the Desert Nights, Rising Stars Writers Conference, you can:

• Meet our faculty of nationally-recognized and award-winning authors, agents, and other literary professionals here to share their knowledge and help you achieve your goals
  
• View the schedule of more than 50 craft talks, panels, workshops, and other sessions covering a wide variety of genres and forms
• Register for the conference before December 31 and take $50 off. Single-day passes and discounts are available, too.
  

Additional Programs

Beyond our regular conference programming, Desert Nights, Rising Stars features additional opportunities for deeper learning and personal connection, including: 

• Three-hour advanced workshops with selected faculty before the conference begins
• A literary fair featuring talks, readings, and other literary performances adding to the conference festivities

Get More Involved

If you're looking to get more involved in the conference beyond registering as an attendee, you can:

• Exhibit as an individual or organization to engage with conference attendees and the larger community
• Sponsor faculty members, fellows, receptions, rooms, or other parts of the conference or fair
• Advertise in our conference program and reach over 300 writers who are actively investing in their literary careers
• Become a Fellow and teach alongside nationally-recognized faculty while attending the conference for free

Beyond space, exhibitors receive discounted and/or complimentary registrations and have the opportunity to present at the fair. Sponsors receive special registration rates, free advertising, exhibitor space, and more. 

Learn More

To learn more about the conference, you can meet our faculty, view the schedule, or visit other pages using the menu.

If you have any questions, contact Education Programs Manager Felicia Zamora at 480.727.1787 or Felicia.Zamora@asu.edu.