StokerCon 2026

Writers with lived experience and who face mental health challenges, yet continue to write, will share their journey. How do these challenges present themselves? How do writers deal with these challenges while typically playing multiple other roles (parents, caregivers, employees) yet persist to write and publish and stay engaged with the Horror Writing community? In a supportive, non-stigmatizing environment, panelists will discuss these experiences, and how it expresses itself in their horror fiction. Is horror fiction itself a coping skill? Walk for a mile in their shoes and discuss how horror and hope intersect in facing mental health symptoms with courage and resilience.

This panel is part of the HWA Mental Health Initiative.

Meet the Pitch Session Pitch Takers as they discuss what they are looking for in pitches, what to do during a pitch, and what not to do. The panel will include time for Q&A from the audience.  You do not have to be scheduled for a pitch to attend this panel. If you are thinking of pitching a work in the future, you are encourage to attend this panel and learn about the process.

The Final Frame Film Competition is one of StokerCon's most popular events. Catch what's new and  terrifying in the world of horror short films.

Enjoy some refreshments while you wait for the results of the Final Frame Film Competition.

This event is catered with a cash bar. The bar accepts credit/debit cards, or, if you are staying at the Westin, you can charge drinks to your room. No cash accepted.

Attend a special screening of the short film "Mourning Meal" (2020) directed by Jamal Hodge and adapted from the poem of the same name by Linda D. Addison from her Bram Stoker Award winning poetry collection How to Recognize a Demon has Become Your Friend (2011).  

Synopsis:
After the tragic loss of her son, Cheryl, a grieving mother, adopts a new philosophy, one that changes her outlook on life and grief. One where suffering has become a dear friend... that must be shared.