Have you ever thought about volunteering for the Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts? It’s a great way to get to know other book lovers on the coast, and to be a part of the festival weekend. There are many volunteer roles available, from taking tickets at the door, to selling raffle tickets, to … Continue reading “Volunteer for the 2026 Festival of the Written Arts”
Category: Special Events
Throughout the year, the Festival hosts several special events. Subscribe to our email notification service, and we’ll let you know when updates are posted to this site.
A new generation of storytellers: school writer-in-residence program launched on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts and School District 46 – Sunshine Coast are pleased to announce the Celebration of Authors, Books and Community (CABC) 2026 Writer-in-Residence program. Funded in part by a generous Responsive Community Grant from the Sunshine Coast Foundation, the program aims to support a new generation of storytellers on … Continue reading “A new generation of storytellers: school writer-in-residence program launched on the Sunshine Coast”
An Evening of Stories and Songs with Grant Lawrence and Friends
The Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts is thrilled to be presenting An Evening of Stories and Songs with Grant Lawrence and Friends on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at the Pender Harbour School of Music. Author, broadcaster and Sunshine Coast raconteur Grant Lawrence has created an outstanding evening of storytelling and songs. Grant will … Continue reading “An Evening of Stories and Songs with Grant Lawrence and Friends “
An Afternoon with Bob McDonald
A Special Fundraiser for the Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts Join us for an inspiring afternoon with renowned science journalist and beloved broadcaster Bob McDonald, as he shares stories from his remarkable life and career, drawn from his new memoir, Just Say Yes. Bob will reflect on his decades-long journey bringing science to … Continue reading “An Afternoon with Bob McDonald”
Special Events at the 2025 Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts
This year we are pleased to offer special events taking place on August 16 and August 17. Please note that festival and Saturday day passes do not include admission to Event A. For more information, or to reserve a ticket for the fiction workshop (while supplies last), order online or phone our box office at … Continue reading “Special Events at the 2025 Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts”
Sechelt Premiere Screening of Inkwo for When the Starving Return
The Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts is pleased to be a sponsor of the Sechelt premiere of the award-winning stop motion animated film, Inkwo for When the Starving Return, featuring appearances by local filmmakers Amanda Strong (director/co-producer/co-writer) and Bracken Hanuse Corlett (co-writer), with special guest Richard Van Camp (co-writer) also in attendance. This … Continue reading “Sechelt Premiere Screening of Inkwo for When the Starving Return”
Event A: Blue Pencil Breakfast Sessions
Meet with Anna Comfort O’Keeffe—Publisher, Douglas & McIntyre and SCFWA board member—for 20 minutes to discuss your manuscript or book idea, one-on-one. Feedback from a publishing professional, plus muffins, tea, and coffee provided!
Event B: Writing Memoir and Family History, with Howard White
As the publisher of Harbour Publishing, Howard White has had a hand in publishing more memoirs and family histories than probably anyone else in BC. He has also dedicated many hours to helping first-time authors craft their stories into unique books that successfully evoke a sense of time, place and character. This workshop will offer tips for writing memoirs, as well as inspiration for those just getting started.
Event C: Tribute to Bev Shaw (1959-2023)
Authors and book lovers across Canada lost a friend and literary ally when Bev Shaw, owner of Talewind Books, unexpectedly passed away in 2023. Bev was an integral part of the SCFWA, our treasured friend and festival bookseller for 35 years, and her presence will be forever missed. Please join Bev’s family, friends, and fellow festival attendees for a special event to remember and celebrate Bev—her dedication to books and authors, her intelligence, and her wry sense of humour.
Event D: Harbour Publishing’s Birthday Party
Harbour Publishing is turning 50, and what better way to celebrate than with birthday cake! Tea, coffee, and cake will be served by the book tent directly after Event #17. You’ll also have the opportunity to chat with the event participants and get your books signed.