The Sun Valley Writers’ Conference (SVWC) is introducing a new pass lottery system for our 2026 Conference, responding to years of unprecedented demand.

We’re honored by the extraordinary enthusiasm for SVWC—each year, hundreds of readers attempt to purchase passes the moment our sale opens, and they sell out in minutes. To create a more relaxed, equitable experience for our community, SVWC is moving to a pass lottery in 2026. This approach gives everyone a chance to participate during a multi-week sign-up window and makes the process fairer, more inclusive, and more enjoyable for all.

The lottery is now open, with entries accepted through February 24 at 5pm MST—sign up here. On February 25, names will be selected at random by database software, using encoded entries, and those chosen will be invited to purchase passes. Selected participants will receive an email with a secure purchase link and will have a limited time to complete their transaction. Those not initially selected will automatically be added to a waitlist pool, with additional drawings held as passes become available.

Please note that even with the lottery, far more readers want to attend than our venues can accommodate, and passes are not guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding as we work to welcome as many book lovers as possible.

More Ways to Join SVWC

As one of the nation’s most sought-after literary gatherings, SVWC continues expanding free events and community programming to make the Conference accessible to all. Options include free lawn talks, free library talks in partnership with The Community Library, free livestreaming, Live Watch Party passes at The Argyros Performing Arts Center, and a digital media library of past talks.

Whether in person or online, we want as many people as possible to engage with great writers, ideas, and conversations. This lottery system is one more way we’re working to welcome more readers into the SVWC experience.

Passes are sold online only. For full details and to enter the lottery, visit svwc.com/attend.

Photo credit: Ray Gadd