The pen is mightier than the sword at Ottawa's Writers Festival

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Tuesday, 06 March 2012 15:58

For the past 15 years, writers all of skill levels, interests and ages have been gathering in Canada's capital city for one spectacular event. Travellers who happen to be taking tours of Ottawa from April 26th through the 30th will want to bring their pen and pencil to the biannual Writer's Festival. Held at various venues throughout the city, this event is the largest independent gathering of authors and poets in the country.

The idea behind this festival is to draw passion and interest out of as many individuals as possible by promoting and protecting writing as a medium. Writers from all over the world come to share their experience and talent with thousands at seminars, lectures, workshops and more in Ottawa. In the past, they have hosted Nobel Laureates as guest speakers and provided free writing classes to the homeless. This festival is unique in that organisers hope to connect writers by offering neutral environments and a common ground of learning.

The lineup of participants has not yet been released, but past years' guests have been impressive and informative. Some of the events that travellers may witness include interactive poetry slams, fictional storytelling, literary debates and biographical readings.

If travellers enjoy the written word and plan on making future trips to the city, they may want to consider becoming a member of the Ottawa International Writers Festival organisation that supports this occasion. Enrollment in the organisation is tax-deductible and will offer contributors VIP treatment at the event, including discounts on books, reserved seating for lectures and exclusive invitations. The membership is good for the festival in April as well as the fall event in October. More information can be found on the festival's official website or through its Twitter account, which is filled with all the latest developments.

Those who like to check out what goes on behind the scenes may wish to volunteer at an event during the festival. The organisation says they look for enthusiastic participants to help out with the presentations and lectures to keep things running smoothly.

The Ottawa Writer's festival happening this spring could be a wonderful convention to experience with loved ones while on a thrilling holiday in this city.