South Walton is a hub for writers looking to connect, share, and grow. Here are five standout writing groups and events that bring together authors, poets, and storytellers in the area:
- Coastal Journal Writing Group: Monthly workshops and feedback sessions at the Coastal Branch Library. Open to all experience levels.
- Word Waves Writers: A network of writers supported by the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts, offering programs like critique groups and genre-specific sessions.
- Emerald Coast Storytellers: Focused on live storytelling and open mic nights, with events at SOWAL House in Rosemary Beach.
- Longleaf Writers Conference: An annual week-long retreat in May featuring workshops, seminars, and agent consultations.
- 30A Songwriters Festival Writing Community: A four-day event in January celebrating songwriting across multiple genres, with over 200 performances.
Each group offers unique opportunities to connect, learn, and share your work, whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out.
South Walton Writing Groups Comparison Guide
1. Coastal Journal Writing Group
The Coastal Branch Library in Santa Rosa Beach serves as a welcoming space for writers in the South Walton community. Throughout the year, the library hosts various writing-focused events, creating a nurturing environment for writers of all experience levels to connect and grow.
What the Group Offers
This group is all about helping writers sharpen their skills. Activities include hands-on workshops, constructive feedback sessions, and occasional open mic nights. Whether you're just starting your writing journey or you're a seasoned author looking for fresh perspectives, this group provides plenty of chances to improve and share your work in a supportive atmosphere.
When and Where They Meet
Writing enthusiasts in the Seaside and South Walton area gather on the second Tuesday of each month. For the latest updates on meeting times and locations, you can stop by the Coastal Branch Library or check their community announcements.
How to Get Involved
Joining is easy - just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to engage with others. There are no fees or complicated sign-ups. Simply visit the Coastal Branch Library or keep an eye on their bulletin boards for the most current meeting details. Occasionally, sessions may also take place at other local spots, adding a touch of variety to the experience.
2. Word Waves Writers
Word Waves Writers embodies the collaborative spirit of South Walton's literary community. Thanks to the support of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, a variety of literary events bring writers together from across the region, creating a vibrant network of storytellers and wordsmiths.
Adding to this dynamic atmosphere, the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts plays a key role in fostering connections among local writers. Guided by author Barbara Barth, the center hosts engaging programs like "Just Write," "Scribblers," and "Southern Sisters in Crime," offering opportunities for writers to share their work, exchange ideas, and grow creatively.
For the latest updates on meetings and schedules, reach out to the Cultural Arts Alliance or the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts.
3. Emerald Coast Storytellers
Emerald Coast Storytellers offers a unique platform where writers can bring their words to life, both on paper and through live performances. Their events, which include live storytelling sessions and open mic nights, invite participants to dive into themes like "Redemption and Second Chances." These gatherings mix curated performances with impromptu storytelling across a variety of genres, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
Focus Area of the Group
At its heart, Emerald Coast Storytellers is all about live storytelling and fostering a sense of community. It provides a welcoming stage for both seasoned storytellers and newcomers to share their voices. Whether it's a polished piece or a raw, heartfelt story, the group celebrates the art of spoken word and the creative spirit of local talent.
Meeting Schedules and Frequency
Events are held at SOWAL House, located at 82 S Barrett Square in Rosemary Beach/Inlet Beach, Florida. These storytelling nights usually take place on Thursday evenings, kicking off in the early evening. Tickets for general admission typically cost between $20.00 and $25.00, with an additional 7% sales tax and service fees. Given the popularity of these events, tickets tend to sell out fast, so planning ahead is key.
How to Join or Participate
If you're interested in attending, you can secure your spot by purchasing tickets through the group's event page. For those eager to take the stage, send an email to emeraldcoaststorytellers@gmail.com with your name, genre, a short bio, and a description of your presentation. Open mic performers are usually given six minutes to share their work, so early registration is highly recommended due to the limited slots and high demand.
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4. Longleaf Writers Conference
The Longleaf Writers Conference is a week-long retreat held every May along the picturesque Emerald Coast. This annual event gathers 75–100 writers for a mix of intensive workshops, daily seminars, agent consultations, and some much-needed creative downtime by the beach. The 2026 conference is scheduled for May 9–16 in Grayton Beach and features an impressive faculty lineup, including Beth Ann Fennelly, a former Poet Laureate of Mississippi, and Jennifer Haigh, a PEN/Hemingway Award winner. The conference strikes a perfect balance between serious craft development and relaxed, rejuvenating moments.
Focus Area of the Group
This conference is all about creating a welcoming space where writers - whether just starting out or seasoned pros - can connect without any sense of hierarchy or competition. The program offers a mix of small-group critiques, nightly readings, and social gatherings, alongside opportunities to recharge creatively on the beach. Since 2013, the conference has also run the "Writers in the Classroom" initiative, which has brought professional authors into Walton County Title I schools, enriching the lives of thousands of students.
"Longleaf cultivates a space where every writer, regardless of how fledgling or seasoned, belongs." – Anoushka Gera, UAB Scholar 2025
Meeting Schedules and Frequency
The conference takes place annually during the second week of May. For 2026, the move to Grayton Beach offers a more central location, making it even more accessible for Emerald Coast residents. Each day is packed with activities, including morning workshops, afternoon seminars, and evening events like bonfires and readings.
How to Join or Participate
Registration is open throughout the year, but it's a good idea to secure your spot by early spring since space is limited. Writers can register for the full week or apply for fellowships, with financial aid applications accepted from September 1 to January 10. Full registration includes small-group critiques, so come ready to share your work. Pricing is tiered to accommodate a range of budgets, offering flexibility for participants.
5. 30A Songwriters Festival Writing Community
The 30A Songwriters Festival Writing Community brings together over 125 talented songwriters for a four-day celebration during the MLK weekend. Now in its 17th year, the festival, themed "Hooks, Lines & Singers", features more than 200 performances spread across 25+ intimate listening rooms.
Focus Area of the Group
This festival shines a spotlight on original songwriting across genres like country, Americana, folk, blues, and soul. During the event, South Walton transforms into a network of cozy venues, offering a unique experience for music lovers. What makes it even more special? Every penny of net proceeds goes toward supporting the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.
"The 30A Songwriters Festival is a unique cultural event bringing together nearly every South Walton community and many businesses to showcase Walton County as a destination not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its creative excellence." – SoWal.com
Meeting Schedules and Frequency
The festival is set to take place January 15–19, 2026, with its headquarters located at WaterColor (238 Watercolor Blvd. West). The box office will be open from 4:00–8:00 pm on January 15, 10:00 am–10:00 pm on January 16–17, and 10:00 am–2:00 pm on January 18–19. If you’re looking to stay involved throughout the year, the Cultural Arts Alliance offers workshops and classes to keep the creative momentum going.
How to Join or Participate
You can get involved by purchasing tickets at 30asongwritersfestival.com, volunteering to support the arts, or becoming a member of the Cultural Arts Alliance for access to exclusive concerts. To make the most of the event, download the official mobile app to plan your schedule and easily navigate between the 30+ venues.
Conclusion
South Walton's writing community is as vibrant as it is varied, offering everything from small critique groups to large-scale festivals. These gatherings provide writers with invaluable feedback, fresh inspiration, and meaningful connections. Whether you're attending weekly critique sessions or sitting in on monthly talks by industry professionals, there’s no shortage of ways to sharpen your skills.
"Connect... Join our network of writers, artists, and creative enthusiasts! We have something for everyone at every level. We support and encourage your writing goals." – Emerald Coast Writers
You don’t need to be a seasoned author to dive in. Many writers start by simply listening and observing until they feel ready to contribute. Plus, being part of this community opens doors to local publishing opportunities, such as the Emerald Coast Review, which has been spotlighting Gulf Coast talent since 1989.
Take the time to check out local meeting schedules, subscribe to mailing lists, or sign up for memberships to enjoy perks like discounted workshops and publication access. Whether your passion lies in poetry, fiction, songwriting, or memoirs, there’s a group in South Walton eager to welcome you.
"As writers and artists, we never stop learning and developing our craft." – Emerald Coast Writers
FAQs
How do I join a writing group in South Walton?
Joining a writing group in South Walton is straightforward and inviting. Start by exploring local forums or community boards for details about upcoming meetings. For instance, one group gathers monthly on the second Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at Central Records. All you need to do is bring a notebook, introduce yourself to the organizer, and you’ll be warmly welcomed.
To stay in the loop, ask to be added to the group’s mailing list. This way, you’ll get updates on meeting times and locations, which can sometimes shift. If you’re on the hunt for more options, consider checking out regional organizations like Emerald Coast Writers. They offer monthly virtual meetings, providing another way to connect.
Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting your journey, South Walton’s writing groups offer a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded people and hone your skills.
What makes the Longleaf Writers Conference a valuable experience for writers?
The Longleaf Writers Conference offers an incredible chance for writers to dive into a week filled with craft and camaraderie. Each day is packed with writing workshops, small-group critiques, and seminars led by published authors who provide tailored feedback to help participants refine their skills. On top of that, attendees can take advantage of agent consultations, evening readings, and plenty of opportunities to network with fellow writers and industry insiders.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Seaside, Florida’s white-sand beaches, the conference blends productivity with relaxation. Writers can focus on honing their craft while also soaking up the peaceful beach vibes during their downtime. Scholarships and fellowships are available, ensuring accessibility for writers at all levels. For South Walton locals, it’s a perfect way to connect with the area’s vibrant literary scene and advance their writing journey.
How can I participate in Emerald Coast Storytellers events?
To attend an Emerald Coast Storytellers event, start by browsing their event calendar to find the latest dates, themes, and locations. Most gatherings take place at SOWAL House in Rosemary Beach, FL. Doors typically open at 5:00 PM, with the storytelling kicking off at 6:00 PM.
If it’s a ticketed event, you’ll need to grab your ticket in advance - usually priced around $20 plus tax and fees. For open-mic nights, aspiring storytellers can email emeraldcoaststorytellers@gmail.com with their name, genre, a brief bio, and a description of their planned reading to secure a spot.
Plan to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and mingle with the community. To stay in the loop about future events, sign up for their newsletter or keep an eye on updates posted on their website.
