Campbell River Writers' Festival Society

The Campbell River Writers' Festival Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization based in Campbell River, British Columbia. It is registered under the business number 866611916RR0001.

Objectives and Activities

The primary objectives of the society include organizing a festival of the written arts in Campbell River, promoting high levels of community literacy and reading, and contributing to lifelong education within the community. The organization also offers workshops for local students and adult writers, enhancing literary engagement and fostering a culture of reading and writing.

Festival Overview

The society is best known for hosting the Words on the Water Writers Festival. This annual event features contemporary writers and readers meeting in the scenic west coast setting of Campbell River. The festival typically includes a mediated panel discussion on Friday evening, followed by individual annotated readings with each guest author on Saturday. A highlight of the event is the Literary Cabaret on Saturday evening, which combines readings with music and socializing opportunities.

Recent Festival Events

In 2025, the 21st annual festival was held on March 7-8, featuring a diverse lineup of authors, including Shashi Bhat, Michael Christie, Ian Ferguson, Celia Haig-Brown, Jess Housty, Scott Alexander Howard, Susan Musgrave, and Adam Shoalts. The event celebrated a mix of poets, adventurers, filmmakers, mystery writers, short story authors, and novelists, offering attendees a rich literary experience.

Venue

The festival is held at the Maritime Heritage Centre, which provides a picturesque nautical backdrop, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the event.

Ticketing and Attendance

Weekend passes for the festival are typically capped at 150, making it an exclusive opportunity for those interested. Early bird tickets and regular weekend passes are available, with prices adjusted as the event approaches. The festival often sells out due to its popularity, underscoring its significance within the literary community.

Financial Status and Classification

The Campbell River Writers' Festival Society is categorized under civic and social organizations, focusing on grantmaking and similar civic activities. While specific financial details are not publicly disclosed, the organization's activities are aligned with promoting literacy and education in Campbell River.

The society's work through the Words on the Water festival contributes significantly to enhancing literacy, fostering community engagement, and celebrating Canadian literature in the region.