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2026 General Membership Conference


IMPORTANT NOTE
Although we’ve decided to host next year’s conference in Orlando, Florida, we have not yet fixed the DATE or HOTEL. We’re looking at late October to early November. Stay tuned for details

Registration | Hotel | Overview | Agenda

Registration

Registration is not open yet

What are the main registration options? ▿

You have three basic types of registration.

  • The full conference—all events, from Thursday’s reception up to and including the banquet
  • Half-conference—all events after lunch on Friday, or
  • Banquet-only—which includes only our awards banquet on Saturday evening.

We also have differing rates depending on whether you're an MWSA member or not.

Refer to the agenda for program dates and times.

Can't see any member rates? Having trouble logging in?▿

First, scroll down and read the Notes & Instructions. If that doesn’t work and you can’t register,

Click here to go directly to the conference registration page of our membership website.

Banquet Menu Choices ▿

Notes

  • You'll make your menu selection in the registration form.
  • Be sure to mention any dietary restrictions or allergies.
  • As usual, there will be a cash bar to purchase drinks before and during the banquet.

Menu Options

TBD

 

Hotel

TBD

Overview

If you want to participate in a panel or would like to make a presentation, please let our Events Committee know, using our Event Contact Form or email Rob directly at events@mwsa.co

Orlando Attractions
Click on a section title below to expand the details

🎢 Top 10 Attractions in Orlando ▿

  1. Walt Disney World Resort

    • Includes Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom
    • Known for Cinderella Castle, immersive rides, and character experiences
  2. Universal Orlando Resort

    • Features Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay
    • Home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and thrilling coasters
  3. ICON Park

    • A 20-acre entertainment complex with The Wheel (400-ft observation wheel), SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds
  4. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Day trip-worthy)

    • Explore real rockets, meet astronauts, and stand beneath the Space Shuttle Atlantis
  5. Orlando Museum of Art

    • Offers rotating exhibits, local artist showcases, and interactive workshops
  6. Harry P. Leu Gardens

    • A peaceful 50-acre botanical garden with rose gardens, butterfly habitats, and Florida flora
  7. Lake Eola Park

    • Downtown oasis with swan boat rentals, walking paths, and live performances at the amphitheater
  8. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

    • Glide through the headwaters of the Everglades spotting gators and wildlife
  9. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

    • Hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and cultural performances in a modern venue
  10. WonderWorks Orlando

  • An “edu-tainment” center with interactive science exhibits, laser tag, and a ropes course inside an upside-down building

Websites

Orlando for authors

Key literary spots in Orlando:

Other literary activities in Orlando: Orlando offers a vibrant literary scene for writers, with inspiring venues, active communities, and notable local authors to explore. Here's a curated guide to help you dive in.


🏛️ Literary Places & Activities for Writers in Orlando ▿

1. Orange County Library System (OCLS)

2. The Kerouac Project

  • Residency program for writers in the historic house where Jack Kerouac lived.
  • Offers readings, community events, and writer support.
  • Website: kerouacproject.org

3. Writers of Central Florida or Thereabouts

  • Monthly open mic nights and writing workshops.
  • Events include “Short Attention Span Storytelling Hour” and “Orlando Word Lab.”
  • Website: Meetup Group

4. Page 15 Literacy Project

  • Youth writing programs and creative empowerment initiatives.
  • Great for volunteering or connecting with emerging voices.
  • Website: page15.org

5. Orlando Story Club

  • Live storytelling competitions at CityArts Orlando.
  • A fun way to sharpen narrative skills and connect with local creatives.
  • Website: orlandostoryclub.com

6. Timucua Arts Foundation

  • Hosts literary and musical events in an intimate setting.
  • Website: timucua.com

7. Orlando Zine Meetup

  • Casual gathering for zine creators—great for indie publishing inspiration.
  • Meets monthly at local cafés.
  • Info via AllEvents.in

✍️ Notable Authors from Orlando

Children’s & YA Authors:

  • Ethan Long: Geisel Award-winning author of “Up, Tall and High!” and “Fright Club.”
  • David Blaze: Known for the “My Fox” series and “Epic Kids.”
  • Beverly Ann Page: Author of “Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker.”

Adult Fiction & Nonfiction:

  • Bob Morris: Mystery novelist with Florida-set thrillers like “Bahamarama.”
  • David James Poissant: UCF professor and author of “Lake Life” and “The Heaven of Animals.”
  • Gary John Bishop: NYT bestselling author of “Unfu*k Yourself.”

Other Influential Florida Authors:

  • Zora Neale Hurston: Though from Eatonville, her legacy is deeply tied to Orlando’s literary culture.
  • Carl Hiaasen, Tim Dorsey, and Bob Kealing also have strong Florida ties and influence.

🌐 Suggested Websites & Event Calendars

Resource Focus Link
Orange Co Library Events, workshops, expos ocls.org
Writers Meetup Local writing groups Meetup
AllEvents Orlando Literary & poetry events allevents.in/orlando
Kerouac Project Writer residencies kerouacproject.org

From generative AI search

 

Agenda