Treat yourself to five cozy days in picturesque Vermont.
Writing time & new friendships in a beautiful setting
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A renewed dedication to your writing
The Southern Vermont Writers’ Conference is your opportunity to get away from your regular schedule and carve out a few quiet days to dedicate to your writing life. Come see what expert instruction, uncluttered time, the company of other writers and an inspiring backdrop can do.
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Building a writing community
Writing is so often a solitary process. so finding community with other writers can be a life-changing experience. Watching friendships develop and continue during and after the 2025 conference was one of of the many rewards of creating this event. Come see for yourself .
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The Inn at Manchester
You’ll find charming rooms with modern conveniences, lots of inviting spots to write, a cozy pub, and a friendly staff. Plus, registered hotel guests will enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast every morning. It’s all waiting for you, with the Green Mountains as a backdrop. After registration, we will email you a code to make your lodging reservation (if desired). View the rooms at the Inn here.
Tentative Schedule for 2026
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3 PM: Room check-in for those staying at the Inn at Manchester
5-6:30 PM: Registration & Reception (cash bar) in the Celebration Barn
6:30-7:30 PM: Welcome Dinner
7:30-9 PM: Kick-Off Event with Chris Wells, Sari Botton, & Justen Ahren -
8-9 AM: For those staying in the Inn, breakfast starts at 8 AM
9:15 AM: Morning Road Map with Kim & Caren
9:30 AM: Morning Workshops
12:30 PM: Lunch Buffet, Celebration Barn
1:30-3 PM: Afternoon Salon featuring participant readings
3:30-5:30 PM: Afternoon Workshops & Generative Writing Sessions
5:30 PM: Bar opens in the Celebration Barn
6 PM: Dinner in the Celebration Barn
7:30 PM: Pub opens in the Inn -
8-9 AM: For those staying in the Inn, breakfast starts at 8 AM
9:15 AM: Morning Road Map
9:30 AM: Morning Workshops
12:30 PM: Lunch Buffet, Celebration Barn
Afternoon FREE to write or explore!
6:30 PM: TENTATIVE: Dinner across the street at The Crooked Ram, perhaps a wander down to Mulligans or the Copper Grouse after dinner -
8-9 AM: For those staying in the Inn, breakfast starts at 8 AM
9:15 AM: Morning Road Map
9:30 AM: Morning Workshops
12:30 PM: Lunch Buffet, Celebration Barn
1:30-3 PM
Afternoon Salon featuring participant readings
3:30-5:30 PM: Afternoon Workshops & Generative Writing Sessions
5:30 PM: Bar opens in the Celebration Barn
6 PM: Farewell Dinner in the Celebration Barn
7:30 PM: Pub opens in the Inn -
8-9 AM: For those staying in the Inn, breakfast starts at 8 AM
11 AM: Check Out for those staying at the Inn
FAQs
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
We want the food during the conference to be just as nourishing as the event itself, so please let us know when you fill out your post-registration survey if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. Both the inn and our caterer are prepared to meet your dietary needs.
What is the closest airport or train station?
Albany International Airport is a 90-minute drive from The Inn at Manchester. The Albany-Rensselaer Train Station has AMTRAK services and is also about a 90-minute drive. We can help arrange airport and train station transportation.
What’s the weather like in Vermont in April?
We have a saying in Vermont, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute!” Early spring can be highly variable. We could have a sunny day in the 60s and snow the next. Dressing in layers is key. A sweater or jacket for your workshop session is always a good idea.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel before January 5, 2026, to receive a full refund, less a $100 processing fee.
Cancel between January 5 and February 10, 2026, for a 50% refund of your conference fee.
Due to our obligations to our instructors, the Inn at Manchester, and our caterer, we are unable to issue refunds after February 10, 2026.
Are there any handicap accessible rooms at the inn?
Yes! We have put the handicap accessible rooms and rooms for those with limited mobility on hold to make sure they are available for conference participants who need them. Let us know you would like a handicap room on your post-conference survey, and we will help you make the right reservation for your needs.
Can my spouse/partner join me at the conference?
Spouses and partners are welcome. There are numerous activities to enjoy in the Manchester area. Your plus-one may join us for the Kick-Off Dinner on Sunday and the other evening meals during the week for an additional fee.
Workshop sessions, lunch, and the Afternoon Salons are for conference participants only. We work hard to create a safe space for our participants to share their work. Thank you for understanding!
