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celebrating words
Elephant Mountain Lit Fest is celebrating our 13th anniversary with a weekend packed with workshops, readings, discussions, mentorship sessions, and a book fair! Through a wide spectrum of literary experiences, join us in exploring the work of talented writers who push boundaries, bend genres, and write from their hearts. This year’s festival line-up promises to inspire, challenge, and uplift.
*Please note that the 2024 Gold Pass only includes the two evening events. This pass does not include any workshops or mentorship sessions. Gold Passes must be purchased by phone, email, or in person at The Capitol Theatre Box Office. 250.352.6363 or boxoffice@capitoltheatre.ca
Main EVENTS
Friday, September 13th
7:00PM
13th Anniversary on the 13th: Into the Unknown
Join us on the auspicious evening of Friday the 13th for a dialogue with writers whose work delves into themes of the unknown and uncertainty. This event will thrill lovers of poetry, fiction, film, and music through a showcase of the writer’s work and short discussion of writing the unknown. Rather than shy away from an event on this often-avoided date, Elephant Mountain Lit Fest embraces the occasion as a chance to celebrate our 13th festival with an event that explores an antidote to uncertainty; creation. Featuring Roz Nay, Smokii Sumac, Jayli Wolf, and Jayme Moye. Tickets are available through the Capitol Theatre.
*This event is included in the Gold Pass
Saturday, September 14th
1:30-4:30PM
local writers book fair
Join us in the lobby and house of the Capitol Theatre for a book fair exclusively featuring local writers. Meet writers, shop for books, get signed copies and learn more about the rich writing culture of the Columbia Basin region!
Saturday, September 14th
7:00PM
strength in storytelling: a reading and conversation
On the heels of Friday evening’s discussion of the unknown/uncertainty, on Saturday evening the festival turns to themes of belonging, knowing, and connection. Through readings and a panel discussion, this event will explore how storytelling links us across time and space, offering solace in the face of both personal and universal turbulence. Participants will share readings from their works, followed by a discussion of storytelling’s role in facing the world’s complexities. Featuring Shashi Bhat, Zaynab Mohammed, Emma Noyes and more writers TBA. The Richard Carver Award will also be announced at this event. Tickets are available through the Capitol Theatre.
*This event is included in the Gold Pass
Events

Writers Cubed: Writers Writing About WritingFri, Sep 25Nelson Public Library
Newcomer Workshops: Non-FictionSun, Sep 27606 Arts Space
Newcomer Workshops: Full Day PassSun, Sep 27606 Victoria St
Newcomer Workshops: FictionSun, Sep 27606 Arts Space
Newcomer Workshops: PoetrySun, Sep 27606 Victoria St
Open Mic and Book FairThu, Oct 01Capitol Theatre
Festival Gold PassFri, Oct 02Throughout the Festival
Workshop: Pop Culture, Representation, and Identity, with Jen Sookfong LeeFri, Oct 02606 Victoria St
Workshop: Language and Performance, with Tony LouieFri, Oct 02606 Arts Space
Poetry 101: How to follow the rules & when to break them, with Brandi BirdFri, Oct 02606 Arts Space
Mysteries, Identity, and the Craft of FictionFri, Oct 02Capitol Theatre
Workshop: Introduction to Worldbuilding, with Scott Alexander HowardSat, Oct 03606 Arts Space
Workshop: Writing Engaging Characters, with Iona WhishawSat, Oct 03606 Arts Space
Workshop: Story Structure From Beginning to End, with Sam WiebeSat, Oct 03606 Victoria St
Poetry, Philosophy, and ReckoningSat, Oct 03Capitol Theatre
Blue Pencil Mentors
Elephant Mountain Lit Fest's 40-minute Blue Pencil Mentorship sessions are designed to elevate your writing. You'll receive personalized feedback from an experienced mentor, who will help you refine your work, identify areas for improvement, and provide valuable insights to enhance your storytelling. Perfect for writers at any stage, this session offers the opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and actionable advice to take your writing to the next level. Our 2024 Blue Pencil Mentors were Shashi Bhat and Roz Nay.

