DFW Publishing Conferences and Writer Meetups
The Dallas–Fort Worth area offers robust opportunities for writers through DFWCon (dates announced annually, typically fall) featuring deep craft programming and agent/editor pitch opportunities, and weekly DFW Writers' Workshop meetings every Wednesday evening.
You'll find pitch sessions with industry professionals, targeted classes, and valuable networking to advance your writing career. Both beginners and experienced authors can develop their skills, connect with agents, and join a community that has helped many members achieve traditional publishing success.
DFWCon: Schedule, Registration, and Value Proposition
Five compelling reasons make DFWCon a must-attend event for writers of all genres and experience levels. Held at the Hurst Conference Center with an optional pre-conference workshop day, you'll access dozens of sessions, one or more included pitch sessions with agents/editors (subject to availability), and networking with hundreds of peers and pros.
The conference's community impact extends beyond education, creating lasting connections among Dallas–Fort Worth writers. Featured keynote authors and faculty vary by year and are announced by the organizers. You'll also find volunteer opportunities that provide behind-the-scenes experience while supporting this premier regional event.
Register early through the DFW Writers' Workshop/DFWCon website to secure your preferred pitches and classes. Whether you're pitching a manuscript or honing your craft, DFWCon delivers comprehensive programming and direct industry access in one convenient North Texas location.
What to Expect at Your First DFW Writers' Workshop Meeting
Attending your first DFW Writers' Workshop meeting might seem intimidating, but you'll find a structured, welcoming environment designed to help writers at every stage. Meetings occur Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. (check the group's site for the current Euless meeting address and any hybrid options).
When preparing for critique, bring short excerpts (for example, your first 10 pages) and expect clear, constructive feedback rather than simple praise. The read-and-critique format helps refine your work while establishing community connections with fellow writers, with sign-ups managed on-site to keep things orderly.
You'll join a supportive network where numerous members have gone on to publish traditionally and independently. Check venue and health guidelines before arriving, enter through the posted lobby, and please stay home if you're feeling unwell.
Navigating Pitch Sessions with Literary Agents and Editors
Once you're comfortable in workshop settings, set your sights on the industry's gatekeepers. Pitching your manuscript requires concise preparation that balances rehearsal with conversational delivery.
Craft a crisp hook that introduces your protagonist, central conflict, and stakes without oversharing. Apply storytelling to your pitch—start strong and end on a moment that invites questions.
During the session, brevity wins. Use part of your time and leave room for dialogue. Bring minimal notes, dress professionally, and stay open to feedback. Be ready to discuss comparable titles, word count, series potential, and your ideal reader—demonstrating you're both a talented writer and a collaborative professional.
Craft and Business Classes: Developing Your Writing Skills
While networking and pitching matter, the foundation of your career is ongoing craft and business development.
At DFWCon you'll find classes across fiction, nonfiction, and specialty genres taught by published authors, editors, and agents. Sessions emphasize practical application—scene structure, character, revision workflows—alongside query letters, contracts, and platform/marketing fundamentals.
The two-day format blends lectures with hands-on workshops for multiple experience levels. Between conferences, weekly critique through DFW Writers' Workshop keeps momentum, offering continuity that has helped hundreds of writers make measurable progress year over year.
Networking Opportunities at DFW Writing Events
Successful writing careers are built not only on talent but also on strategic relationships forged at events like DFWCon.
You'll get face-time with agents and editors through one-on-one pitch sessions, plus informal mixers where relationships develop naturally. Ongoing community via the weekly workshop deepens connections beyond a single weekend.
Professional extras—like updated headshots, query clinics, and post-conference follow-ups—extend networking beyond the event itself. Registration packages typically include at least one pitch (with options to add more), maximizing your chances for meaningful conversations that can lead to requests.
Faith-Based Writing at the Roaring Lambs Conference
Beyond the general circuit, DFW hosts specialized gatherings for faith-oriented writers, such as the Roaring Lambs one-day conference held annually in the Dallas area. The focus blends spiritual encouragement with practical craft sessions.
You'll find instruction on story development and testimony writing alongside mentoring opportunities with experienced authors. The organization also offers periodic workshops and small-group coaching that help writers shape compelling faith-centered narratives for page or platform.
DFW Writers' Workshop: Building a 45+ Year Legacy
For more than four decades, DFW Writers' Workshop has been a cornerstone of literary development in North Texas. Founded in 1977, this 501(c)(3) non-profit hosts weekly critique where you'll receive actionable feedback in a welcoming environment.
What sets it apart: longevity; community focus via an all-volunteer team; professional development through its conference; and a long list of member publications. The organization's flagship conference has earned a strong reputation among regional writers and continues to evolve in response to attendee feedback.
You'll find consistent support whether you're revising your first draft or preparing to query.
Conference Accommodations and Special Dietary Options
Planning your attendance involves more than registration. Host venues typically offer a discounted room block near the conference site with a cutoff date; booking within the block supports the event and simplifies logistics.
Most conferences include continental breakfast, lunch, and snacks with registration. Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are usually available with advance notice; for other needs, contact organizers before the posted deadline. The DFW area provides a range of hotels near Hurst and other venues, with convenient access to DFW and DAL airports and rideshare options for quick transfers.
Traditional vs. Independent Publishing Pathways in DFW
Authors in DFW face a key choice: traditional or independent publishing. Traditional pathways can offer professional editing, established distribution, and potential for broad bookstore placement, but timelines are longer and acceptance rates are competitive.
Independent routes provide creative control, faster time-to-market, and higher royalty percentages. Local community support—cover designers, editors, and marketing cohorts—makes DIY publishing more attainable. If you go indie, platforms like KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) can be paired with print-on-demand and targeted bookstore outreach to build regional presence.
