May 9, 2026
Clatskanie, Oregon
2026 Festival Theme
“Work”
“Yes, work. The going
to what lasts.”
Finding a way to work, finding ourselves through what we do—or in spite of it—gives shape to our lives. Raymond Carver’s poem “Work,” describes someone saying “I’m working. Or I worked today. / Or, I’m trying to make it work.”
How do we fashion pathways to the work that sustains us?
About the Festival
The Raymond Carver Writing Festival takes place annually in beautiful Clatskanie, Oregon, the birthplace of Raymond Carver. Born from Carver’s connection to Clatskanie, this event is designed to encourage and support our regional rural writing communities along the Lower Columbia River.
All efforts have been made to keep events free and open to the public, thanks to the contributions of organizations, businesses, and a volunteer committee of organizers.
Poetry Contest
Submit your poetry from March 1-31, 2026. Winners will be announced at the festival opening ceremony.
Youth 8-11
Clatskanie School District
Youth 12-15
Clatskanie School District
Youth 16-18
Clatskanie School District
Adult 18+
Lower Columbia Region