Join The Inaugural
Laguna Beach Literary Festival
Jan. 9 & 10, 2026
Spend a day with nationally-recognized, award-winning writers and editors exploring the wonder and power of our words and stories. Workshops, panels and presentations will address the craft of writing, offering insights and education.
Followed by a sunset celebration of authors and readers for the public.
Meet other writers. Be inspired. Be motivated. Be a literary citizen.
This event is made possible by a grant from the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach.
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Thank You to Our Community Partners
The Event
Saturday, January 10, 2026 - Susi q Community center - 380 Third St. 8:30 am - 5 p.m.
FRIday, January 9, 2026- Laguna Art Museum 307 Cliff DRive 5-6:30 pm
AN evening with novelist richard bausch - Laguna Beach's Literary leader 2026​
​ This intimate reception will address "Why Storytelling Matters" with Richard Bausch and Marrie Stone.
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM​
Coffee & Registration
Susi Q Main Hallway
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9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Keynote Address: Being a Literary Citizen - Lisa Alvarez
Susi Q Community Room
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MORNING WORKSHOPS
Choose either the Generative Writing option OR one each from the two sessions.​
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10:00 am - 12:15 pm
Generative Writing - Dorothy Randall Gray
Your Story Matters
This expansive workshop (It spans BOTH morning workshop sessions) will have writers digging into their story and producing work that reflects their true voice. Bring your writing tool of choice - notebook or laptop.
Dorothy Randall Gray is author of the bestsellers Soul Between the Lines and Sharing the Same Sky. She's a master teacher whose workshops have inspired thousands throughout the country. She's a Hedgebrook Fellow, former board member of the International Women's Writing Guild and was twice appointed LA Poet-in-Residence.
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10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Breakout Session 1 - chose one
Memoir - Tracy Jones
Family roots will provide a solid foundation for your own story as you learn how to transform your memories into vivid, compelling narratives.
Tracy Jones is president of the International Memoir Writers Association, a writing coach and developmental editor She is co-editor of the Shaking the Tree Anthologies, produced annually by the Memoir Writers Association and lives in teh San Diego area.
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Publishing - Holly Kammier, Barbara Kronin
Enjoy a guided walk along the publishing path by writers who've traveled it and those who create it.
Holly Kammier is the co-founder and acquisitions editor of Acorn Publishing, the largest publishing imprint in San Diego and one of California’s leading hybrid publishers. Acorn boasts a diverse catalogue of award-winning and bestselling titles across genres.
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Character Development - Mary Camarillo
From those people we love to hate, to the folks who stay with us long after the last page is read, character development is critical for any writer. This session will address how character development can be enhanced and bringing difficult characters to life in your story.
Mary Camarillo is an award-winning writer who delves into the unique Southern California landscape with a keen eye and astute observations. Her books The Lockhart Women and Those People Behind Us have won critical acclaim. She leads workshops and discussions about writing throughout the country.
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11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Breakout Session 2 - chose one:
Poetry
Writing for the Stage - Christine Fugate
Developing your Voice
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LUNCHEON PANEL
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Telling the California Story - moderated by Andrew Tonkovich
Susi Q Community Room
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AFTERNOON WORKSHOPS
2:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Breakout Session 3 - chose one:
Short Story - Barbara DeMarco Barrett
One of SoCal's premier writing teachers shares how to fine tune and perfect this popular genre.
Publishing Opportunities - Moderated by Andrew Tonkovich
The vital role of small presses and literary journals in the publishing process
Keep the Writing Flow Going - Marni Freedman
How to stay motivated, focused and keep your writing momentum on full speed ahead.
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SUNSET RECEPTION
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Presentation of the Laguna Literary Leader Award to Richard Bausch followed by Public Reception & Book Celebration
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