Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series

The Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series is an annual program that hosts local and nationally renowned writers for craft lectures and public readings. The first events were held in the early 1970s, and over the years, many of the most prestigious names in literature—Robert Pinsky, Lucille Clifton, Scott Russell Sanders, Mark Doty, Camille Dungy, and Terry Tempest Williams, to name a few—have made appearances in Fairbanks. All events are free and open to the public!

Joseph Holt is Director of the Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series for the 2023–24 academic year.

Upcoming Events

  • Jan19

    Solstice Poetry Cycle

      Schaible Auditorium
      7:00 p.m.
    At this unique literary event, thirty local poets will share one poem apiece. No introductions, explanations, or small talk—just rapid-fire poetry. The Solstice Poetry Cycle will be a live anthology of Fairbanks-area poets, showcasing the depth and diversity of our literary community. The event will feature programs and collectible posters, and afterward will be an opportunity to purchase books from the participating poets.

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    Midnight Sun logo
    We're happy to debut the new logo for the Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series. It was designed by undergraduate student Marina Gonzalez Mazo. Thanks to a Supplies & Services Award from Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Activity, we will be distributing promotional material featuring the new logo during the next academic year.

     

     

     

     

    Dead Writers

     

    The Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series also hosts the Dead Writers reading during the Halloween season. Participants—including many of our MFA students and faculty—deliver readings from the work of their favorite deceased writers, often in full creepy costume. The event includes raffle prizes and awards such Best Costume and Best Performance. Dead Writers, which originated in 1990, raises additional funds to bring visiting writers to Fairbanks.

    Cover charge for this event is $5 for UAF students and $10 for all others. All of the proceeds go to the Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series which brings up incredible authors and poets to our community.

     

     

    For more information about Dead Writers or the Midnight Sun Visiting Writers Series, please contact Jake Knuth .