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Tempe Writing Contest

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Tempe Writing Contest

Creative writing from the Tempe community.

Submissions open September 4-18, 2025. This contest is now closed.

About

The Tempe Writing Contest accepts submissions of original works of fiction, creative nonfiction (including memoirs and essays) or poetry for the Tempe Writes: An Anthology. The writings of high school students, college students, and adults will be represented.

Sponsored by Tempe Public Library and Arizona State University.

Submissions open September 4-18, 2025. This contest is now closed. You must use a Google account to access the submission forms.

Submit here - Poetry

Submit here - Nonfiction

Submit here - Fiction

Eligibility

Ages 14 - 18
Ages 19 - 22
Ages 23+
Prior winners must wait three (3) years before being eligible to win again, regardless of category.

* Entrants must be Maricopa County residents. Winners must be able to pick up their prizes in person at the Tempe Public Library.

Writing Contest judging will be done by members of ASU’s creative writing community.
Entries will be read anonymously so please do not include your name or any other identifying information anywhere in your manuscript.
One winner from each entry category will be chosen for each genre.
One submission per entrant only, meaning you can only submit in one category.
No simultaneous submissions please, meaning you have not also sent this work to another contest or literary journal. Only unpublished works will be accepted.
Entries submitted to an incorrect category will be automatically disqualified.
Submissions will be accepted online only on this page September 4-18, 2025.
Reviewers do not offer feedback to entrants on their work.
Winners will be announced in October 2025.
Winning entries will be published in print and online on the Tempe Public Library website.
Winners will be recognized in the publication and receive a copy of the Tempe Writes: An Anthology V. 12 and a cash prize.
A celebration honoring the contest winners will be on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 (subject to change).

Writing Contest Submission Guidelines