Established 1971
“Simply one of the finest literary magazines in the country.” -Lorna Crozier
For 50 years, EVENT has published the very best in contemporary new poetry and prose. We are one of Western Canada’s longest-running literary magazines, and welcome submissions written in English from around the world. Each issue of EVENT includes high quality fiction, poetry, non-fiction and book reviews, and we feature emerging and established writers side-by-side in our pages. Each cover features the work of a BC photographer.
“EVENT found my work and brought it out into the world.” -Madeleine Thien
We pride ourselves on finding and supporting fresh new voices. After appearing in EVENT, writers have received recognition from the Journey Prize, the National Magazine Awards, the Western Magazine Awards, Best Canadian Stories, Best Canadian Poetry and the Pushcart Prize. We have published many of Canada’s most distinguished writers both before and after they gained national or international recognition, and continue to support gifted emerging writers.
Genres Published
Fiction: We look for compelling characters and voice, fresh plots, and narratives that move us. Full details and eligibility requirements on Submittable.
Poetry: We look for arresting imagery, polished language, emotional impact, and lyricism without pretension.
Non-Fiction: The creative non-fiction we publish mainly comes through our annual Non-Fiction Contest (annual deadline: October 15). The 2026 contest is now open for entries. We look for real-life experiences told as riveting narratives with distinct voices.
Reviews: Read sample reviews on our website for an idea of our format and style, and please contact our Reviews Editor before writing or submitting.
Submission Policy
Unless otherwise posted, we have two annual submission windows: one during the months of July and August and another in December and January. Submission windows will close on the last day of the month, or when our allowable unpaid submission limit is reached (whichever comes first).
We will consider only one submission per writer at a time (in one genre only). Once you have received a response from us (accept or decline), you are free to submit another piece of writing.
All work should be previously unpublished.
Writers may only appear in EVENT once every two years, with the exception of Reviews, contest winners and Notes on Writing. If you have recently published in EVENT, we ask that you please wait at least 1.5 years before submitting again.
We accept simultaneous submissions, but please advise us immediately should a piece under consideration be accepted elsewhere.
We pay $40/page for poetry and book reviews, and $35/page for prose, up to a maximum of $500.
All contributors receive 2 copies of the issue in which their work appears. Payment is issued upon publication.
Reading Fee
There is no fee to submit.