Fall isn’t just about changing leaves and pumpkin spice—it’s also one of the most exciting seasons for writers! From NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) to National Fantasy Month, this time of year is filled with events that celebrate creativity, storytelling, and the art of writing itself. It’s a fantastic time to join fellow writers, editors, and readers in recognizing the magic of literature, whether you’re a fantasy lover, sci-fi enthusiast, or author starting a new novel.
In this blog, we’ll break down the exciting fall writing events, how you can participate, and why these celebrations are important for aspiring and established writers alike. So, grab your favorite fall beverage, pull up a cozy chair, and let’s dive into this season of storytelling!
Key Writing Events to Celebrate This Fall
With so many events happening between October and November, we’ve put them in chronological order so you don’t miss any of the fun:
October: National Fantasy Month
Kick off the fall writing season with National Fantasy Month in October, dedicated to celebrating the wonder of magical worlds, mythical creatures, and epic adventures. Whether you’re crafting an enchanted realm or revisiting old favorites, this month offers a perfect excuse to immerse yourself in fantasy.
How to Celebrate:
Read Fantasy Classics: Revisit fantasy staples like J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit or discover newer favorites like V.E. Schwab’s A Darker Shade of Magic.
Write Your Own Fantasy Story: Use this month as an opportunity to work on your own fantasy tale. Whether it’s a short story or a novel idea you’ve been saving, let your imagination run wild.
Join Fantasy Writing Challenges: Participate in fantasy-themed writing challenges and workshops that often pop up during this month to improve your skills and connect with other fantasy lovers.
October 20: National Day on Writing
Sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), the National Day on Writing is all about recognizing the importance of writing in education and everyday life. It’s an opportunity for everyone—from students and teachers to professional authors and hobbyists—to share why they write.
How to Celebrate:
Join #WhyIWrite: Share your reasons for writing on social media using the hashtag #WhyIWrite. It’s a fun way to connect with others and reflect on what inspires you to write.
Participate in Writing Workshops: Look for workshops, either online or in-person, to enhance your skills and meet fellow writers.
November 1: National Author’s Day
November kicks off with National Author’s Day, a celebration of authors and their contributions to literature. This day recognizes the hard work, creativity, and dedication it takes to bring stories to life, whether in the form of novels, non-fiction, poetry, or essays.
How to Celebrate:
Connect with Authors: Use this day to connect with your favorite authors, whether through social media shout-outs or attending book signings.
Set Personal Writing Goals: Reflect on your writing journey and set new goals. Use this day to outline the steps you’ll take to achieve them.
Support Indie Authors: Purchase a book from an indie author, write a review, or give a shout-out to indie authors you admire.
All of November: NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month)
Perhaps the most exciting event for writers, NaNoWriMo is a month-long challenge where participants aim to write 50,000 words in 30 days. The goal isn’t just to finish a novel, but also to build a daily writing habit and foster creativity.
How to Participate:
Sign Up at NaNoWriMo.org: Register to track your word count, earn badges, and connect with fellow writers in the community.
Join the Free OSS NaNoWriMo Group: One Small Step Writing Services offers a free, supportive NaNoWriMo group where writers can share their progress, join virtual write-ins, and receive encouragement. Learn more and sign up here.
Create a Writing Schedule: With a goal of 1,667 words per day, plan a realistic writing schedule to reach your target and find an accountability partner to help keep you motivated.
November: National Sci-Fi Month
In addition to NaNoWriMo, November is also National Sci-Fi Month, a celebration of science fiction and its exploration of futuristic worlds, advanced technology, and the cosmos. From classic novels to modern films, this month embraces the genre’s limitless imagination.
How to Celebrate:
Read Sci-Fi Classics: Revisit foundational sci-fi works like Arthur C. Clarke’s 2001: A Space Odyssey or explore newer works like Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary.
Write Your Own Sci-Fi Story: Use this month to pen a sci-fi short story or expand a sci-fi novel idea you’ve been holding onto.
Attend Sci-Fi Events: Many online book clubs and writing groups host sci-fi-themed events throughout the month, providing a chance to discuss and discover new authors.
November 4-10: Children’s Book Week
Children’s Book Week is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the United States, dedicated to celebrating children’s books and encouraging a love of reading among young readers. It’s an ideal time for authors, illustrators, parents, and educators to promote children’s literature and engage kids in the joy of storytelling.
How to Celebrate:
Read Together: Set aside time to read children’s books with your kids, students, or local reading groups. Choose a mix of classic favorites and new releases to share a variety of stories.
Host a Storytime: Organize a story time event at a local library, school, or bookstore, complete with fun activities related to the book. Consider inviting local authors or illustrators to read their work and engage with children.
Create a Children’s Book: If you’re a writer or illustrator, use this week as inspiration to brainstorm or draft a new children’s story. It’s a great time to connect with fellow creators and explore collaborative projects.
Donate Books: Contribute children’s books to libraries, schools, or community centers. Donating books helps promote literacy and makes stories more accessible to young readers.
Join Online Events: Many organizations host virtual read-a-longs, author interviews, and writing workshops during Children’s Book Week. Participating in these events can inspire your own writing and connect you with the wider children’s book community.
November 15: I Love to Write Day
November 15th marks I Love to Write Day, an informal celebration designed to encourage writers of all kinds—novelists, poets, bloggers, and journaling enthusiasts—to spend time doing what they love most: writing.
How to Participate:
Write for the Fun of It: Whether it’s a poem, a letter, or a short story, take this day to write purely for joy and creativity.
Host a Writing Party: Gather with friends, family, or fellow writers for a laid-back writing session where everyone can share prompts, write, and celebrate storytelling.
Set Goals for the Future: Reflect on your writing achievements this year and set goals for the upcoming year.
November 24: National Editor Appreciation Day
While authors bring stories to life, editors refine them and help ensure they reach their full potential. National Editor Appreciation Day is a chance to recognize the critical role editors play in the publishing process.
How to Celebrate:
Thank an Editor: If you’ve worked with an editor, take a moment to send a note of appreciation. Acknowledge their hard work and dedication to your story’s success.
Learn About Editing: Consider reading about the editing process or even scheduling a consultation with One Small Step Writing Services to understand how professional editing can enhance your manuscript.
Share Editing Tips: Editors can use this day to share tips or insights with writers about how to strengthen their manuscripts before the editing stage.
Why Fall is the Perfect Season for Writers
The crisp, cool weather, shorter days, and cozy vibes of fall create the perfect atmosphere for creativity. It’s a season of change and inspiration, making it an ideal time for writers to set new goals, experiment with different genres, and reignite their passion for storytelling. The variety of writing events happening in October and November offers countless opportunities to connect with fellow writers, hone your craft, and celebrate the art of storytelling.
At One Small Step Writing Services, we’re passionate about supporting writers throughout their creative journey—especially during fall’s most exciting writing events. Whether you’re participating in NaNoWriMo, exploring fantasy or sci-fi writing, or preparing for publication, we offer services tailored to your needs, including book coaching, developmental editing, line editing, and more. Be sure to check out our free NaNoWriMo group for extra motivation and support during the November writing marathon!
Fall is truly a season of celebrations for writers, editors, and storytellers. From National Fantasy Month and NaNoWriMo to National Author’s Day and National Editor Appreciation Day, there’s no shortage of events that encourage you to embrace your creativity and connect with the writing community. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a first-time participant, make the most of this inspiring season to elevate your craft, find new friends, and achieve your writing goals.
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