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author-illustrator, authors, awards, board book, Callawind Book Publishing, CenCal Writers and Illustrators Retreat, Charlotte Huck, contest, illustrators, LATFoB, Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, mentor, middle grade, PAL, PB Rising Stars, published, Sam Cameron, Santa Barbara Literary Festival, SCBWI Art Day, SCBWI community, SCBWI events, SCBWI members, Show and Tell, SoCal MG/YA Writers Retreat, Tahquitz, volunteer, workshop, Writers & Illustrators Day, young adult
Events, Opportunities, and Resources happening now and coming soon for the Tri-Regions and beyond
Check out more resources at the end of the post!
NEW—OPEN NOW
The SCBWI-LA 2026 Writers & Illustrators Day Contests are now open! “We are holding separate contests for writers and illustrators, with different deadlines and details for each. You may enter both contests, but each entry should be a separate email (and limited to ONE submission for the Writers Contest and ONE for the Illustrators Contest).” The deadline to submit for the Illustrators Contest is March 18, 2026 and the deadline for the Writers Contest is April 12, 2026. For more information, click the link here!
OPEN NOW
Registration for the annual SCBWI SoCal chapter’s Tahquitz MG-YA Writers Retreat is now open! “Want to polish your middle grade or young adult novel? Join our four-day small-group intensive writer retreat in idyllic Idyllwild. You’ll be able to hone your craft and polish your manuscript with the guidance of industry professionals. This event includes four critique group sessions led by an agent or editor, a 1:1 coaching session, and optional paid written critiques.” Seats are running out very quickly, so save your spot today!
MARCH 6-8
Join the SCBWI CenCal’s Writers and Illustrators Retreat by the Sea! From March 6, 2026 to March 8, 2026, registered attendees will get to spend a gorgeous weekend by the beach in San Simeon working on projects, engaging in optional critique groups, eating delicious meals, and spending the night by a warm campfire. Commuters are welcome! For more information, click the link here.

