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The Writing North Winter Book Fest

February 28 – March 1
An exciting literary event is coming to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this winter. The Writing North Winter Book Fest will bring together authors, readers, and community members for a weekend dedicated to books, storytelling, and regional voices from February 28 – March 1, 2026, in various locations in downtown Manistique.
Hosted by The Mill Manistique and in partnership with Paper Mill Books, the festival marks the first time Manistique will host a winter-focused book festival designed to celebrate writers and books that are culturally connected to the Great Lakes region.
“As a lifelong northerner, a reader, and an author, I know northern places shape the way writers work and the stories they tell,” said Meagan Francis, Writing North organizing director and co-owner of The Mill. “The climate, the seasons, and the pace of life all influence what ends up on the page. I wanted to create a festival that celebrates authors shaped by northern life and the readers who value and seek out their work.”
The Writing North Winter Book Fest will feature author panels, discussions, and opportunities for readers to engage directly with writers working across genres, including fiction, memoir, poetry, and nonfiction. The event is designed to be welcoming to both readers and writers, offering programming that highlights the richness of Great Lakes storytelling.
The following authors, along with Meagan Francis, plan to participate in this year’s festival: Ellen Airgood, Steve Amick, T. Marie Bertineau, Chad Broughman, Mikel Classen, David Dempsey, Karen Dionne, Carol Dunbar, Bryan Gruley, J.L. Hyde, Ellen Lord, Sara Maurer, Anne-Marie Oomen, Helen Raica-Klotz, and Chef Lane (Iliana) Regan.
Festivalgoers can customize their Writing North experience by purchasing one or more access passes:
  • Reader’s Day Pass $25 – Spend a full day immersed in stories, creativity, and community with access to all Writing North workshops and panels on Saturday, February 28.
  • Lunch with an Author $35 – Share a meal with a festival author at a local eatery on Saturday, February 28. Meal is included.
  • Fireside Salon $75 – Settle in for an intimate evening with guest authors at the Blue Mystique Inn, followed by a cozy after-hours mixer with drinks, light bites, and relaxed mingling in a cozy setting.
  • Writer’s Day Pass $65 – Level up your writing skills and publishing know-how at a mini-writer’s conference 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, featuring in-person workshops led by guest authors. Price includes lunch.
  • All Access Pass $170 – Enjoy all four experiences.
Festival organizers also have plenty of exciting free programming planned at the Mill, including a festival kickoff Saturday morning, an instructor-led midday stretch, book signings, and a family hour with four local children’s book authors. Additionally, visitors can participate in a free guided downtown history walk or enjoy local art displays at Lake Effect Arts Center.
The Writing North Winter Book Fest aims to establish a new annual tradition—one that celebrates regional talent, fosters creative exchange, and strengthens Manistique’s role as a cultural destination.
Festival organizers see the event as a meaningful addition to Manistique’s growing arts and culture scene, with the potential to draw visitors from across the Upper Peninsula while supporting local businesses and creative communities.
“Every day in the bookstore, we see how deeply readers connect with authors who come from this region,” said Eric Neilson, co-owner of Paper Mill Books. “People want to see their own lives reflected in what they read, and this festival brings those writers and readers together in a really meaningful way.”
For updates on participating authors, programming, and ticketing, visit writingnorth.com.
About Writing North Winter Book Fest
The Writing North Winter Book Fest is a new literary festival celebrating the voices, stories, and creative spirit of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Launched in partnership with The Mill Manistique and Paper Mill Books, the festival connects writers and readers through thoughtful programming, community engagement, and a shared love of books.
Contact Information
Meagan Francis, Writing North organizing director, co-owner The Mill Manistique
269-277-3845

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