Deadline extended for 250th anniversary writing contest
CHEYENNE (WNE) — Wyoming Writers Inc., the Wyoming Arts Council and the American Heritage Center have extended the deadline for a statewide writing contest in conjunction with America’s 250th anniversary.
The contest invites writers across Wyoming to reflect on the state’s history, culture and future through original work inspired by Wyoming’s official semiquincentennial theme:
- Honoring our past: Commemorate Wyoming’s history, places, and people.
- Examining our present: Review Wyoming’s role in America today.
- Imagining our future: Plan for Wyoming’s leadership in America’s future.
The submissions are now open through April 22.
Entries must be submitted online through the Wyoming Writers Inc. website at wyowriters.org/250. Mailed or paper submissions will not be accepted.
Writers may submit work in one of three categories: poetry (traditional or free verse), flash fiction (up to 1,000 words) or nonfiction (up to 2,500 words). Submissions will be judged in three age divisions: children (age 12 and under), young adult/new adult (ages 13-22) and adult (age 22 and older).
Winning entries will be selected in each category and age division, with three winners recognized in each group.
Winners will receive a monetary prize and complimentary registration to attend the Wyoming Writers Inc. annual conference, scheduled for June 5-7 in Casper. Those who attend the conference will have the opportunity to read their work at a public reception on June 5. Full contest guidelines, including formatting requirements and eligibility details are available at wyowriters.org/250.
For more information, visit wyomingartscouncil. org or contact Rachel Clifton, executive director of the Wyoming Arts Council, at 307-256-0500 or Rachel.Clifton@wyo.gov.
This story was published on April 15, 2026.