High school students in North Carolina are encouraged to submit their creative writing for a chance to win a cash prize and read at the 24th annual Spring Literary Festival. Note: writers may submit in one category only.

DEADLINE: March 9, 2026

Prize in Fiction

Submit a short story of up to 2000 words.

1st place - $250  

2nd place - $100  

3rd place - $50

High school students in North Carolina are encouraged to submit their creative writing for a chance to win a cash prize and read at the 24th annual Spring Literary Festival. Note: writers may submit in one category only.

DEADLINE: March 9, 2026

Prize in Nonfiction

Submit a creative/literary essay of up to 2000 words.

1st place - $250 

2nd place - $100 

3rd place - $50

High school students in North Carolina are encouraged to submit their creative writing for a chance to win a cash prize and read at the 24th annual Spring Literary Festival. Note: writers may submit in one category only.

DEADLINE: March 9, 2026

Prize in Poetry

Submit up to three poems.

1st place - $250 

2nd place - $100 

3rd place - $50

WCU Department of English Studies