This past weekend, members of the Columbia Chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild spent the day connecting with local writers, artists, and readers at Art in the Park, one of Columbia’s most beloved annual traditions.
A June Columbia Tradition…
Despite rainy weather that forced many vendors to pack up early on Sunday, the event was a
tremendous success. Hundreds of artists filled Stephens Lake Park with paintings, pottery,
photography, jewelry, fiber arts, woodworking, and more. The community came out in full force,
creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated creativity in all its forms.
The Columbia Chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild was proud to be part of the festivities.
Throughout the weekend, guild members welcomed visitors to our booth, answered questions
about the organization, and shared information about upcoming events and opportunities for
writers. By the end of the festival, we had spoken with nearly 200 people!
… and a Community of Writers…
One of the highlights of the weekend was discovering just how many writers are at work in our
community. Visitors stopped by to tell us about the projects they’re working on, including
screenplays, musicals, songs, poetry collections, novels, short stories, memoirs, and more!
Every conversation was a reminder that storytelling is thriving in Mid-Missouri, often in ways that
aren’t immediately visible until writers have a chance to gather and share their work.
We were inspired by the enthusiasm, creativity, and passion we encountered throughout the
weekend. Whether someone was just beginning their first writing project or had been writing for
years, it was exciting to hear about the many stories being created right here in our community.
If you’ve found this article after scanning one of our bookmarks or searching for us after meeting
guild members at Art in the Park, welcome! We’re glad you found us.
… Gathering All Year Long!
The Columbia Chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild welcomes writers of all genres, experience
levels, and backgrounds.
Whether you’re working on a novel, poetry, nonfiction, scripts, songs, or simply exploring a new creative interest, we’d love to meet you!
Join us at our next meeting and become part of a supportive community of writers dedicated to
learning, growing, and encouraging one another. We’d also love to invite you to our upcoming
Well Versed launch party, next weekend June 14, 2026 at Happy Hollow Shelter, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth and shared a piece of their writing journey with us. We look forward to seeing many of you again soon!
Article by:
Bethany Spitzmiller
Bethany Spitzmiller is an editor, writing coach, and communication professional based in Columbia, Missouri. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English and communication with an emphasis in Journalism from Truman State University and a master’s degree in communication from the University of Central Missouri.
Her editorial experience spans newspapers, magazines, and digital media, as well as ghostwriting for a marketing agency. Her work has appeared in high-tier publications such as Entrepreneur, Forbes, and Inc. She is also the founder of Spitzfire Editorial, where she provides freelance editing and writing coaching services.
Cover Photo by: Eilene Ording