StokerCon 2026

Horror lives and dies in the scene. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to construct unforgettable horror setpieces—those iconic, slow-build moments that leave readers breathless. Using techniques drawn from classic and contemporary horror (like The Troop, The Only Good Indians, and The Cabin at the End of the World), we’ll examine how structure, detail, rhythm, and misdirection work together to craft unforgettable moments of dread.

This is a separately ticketed workshop.  For more information on Horror University and registration information see: https://www.stokercon.com/horror-university

The publishing world changes constantly, and writers who want to make sales and make $$ need to change with it. Luckily, that process can be fun and very rewarding! This class will show you how to prep and pitch any kind of writing, and how to start racking up the sales that will bring in cash and build your career. We’ll cover a lot of ground, including the query letter, the verbal pitch, selling short stories, pitching tips and practice, talking points, Hollywood pitches, the market, and more.

This is a separately ticketed workshop.  For more information on Horror University and registration information see: https://www.stokercon.com/horror-university

What do you do when the well-used Western narrative structures don’t quite fit your premise? Have you ever read or watched an Asian narrative and wondered why it feels unpredictable yet satisfying? Want a glimpse at the bones that made Ryan Coogler’s film, Sinners so powerful? Join Geneve Flynn and L. E. Daniels to explore Eastern and Western storytelling conventions across structure, character focus, and narrative goals, and expand your writing toolbox. Learning outcomes include recognizing the growth of Eastern narratives in Western spaces, understanding the differences between Eastern/Western narratives, and learning Kishontenketsu: the four-act structure, the three-act structure, and the heroine’s and hero’s journey.

This is a separately ticketed workshop.  For more information on Horror University and registration information see: https://www.stokercon.com/horror-university

This workshop designed for writers to create an engaging and exciting experience for their audience. Through a series of short, interactive exercises and discussions, writers will learn to build confidence, shed anxiety, be loud and proud, and pick the perfect piece for that special event. There will also be a segment on MCing a literary event. A few participants will be able to read a small passage at the end of the workshop to showcase the tools they've learned.

This is a separately ticketed workshop.  For more information on Horror University and registration information see: https://www.stokercon.com/horror-university