Surrey International Writers’ Conference canceled for first time in 33 years due to Sheraton Guildford Hotel strike. Organizers promise 2026 return.
Beloved Writers’ Conference Put on Hold
For the first time in 33 years, the Surrey International Writers’ Conference (SiWC) will not take place. The event, which normally brings hundreds of writers, editors, and publishers together every October, has been canceled after a hotel strike shut down its long-standing venue, the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel.
Conference organizers shared the news in a heartfelt Facebook post on Monday, calling the decision “heartbreaking.”
Strike Forces Sudden Cancellation
The Sheraton informed organizers that the ongoing strike makes it impossible to host the event this year. With the calendar already deep into planning season, shifting the massive conference elsewhere simply wasn’t feasible.
“Moving somewhere else is not possible,” organizers explained. “After reviewing every option, we had no choice but to cancel.”
The cancellation comes as a disappointment not just for attendees but also for the global writing community. For many, the conference has long been a networking lifeline and an annual source of inspiration.
A History of Resilience
The SiWC has faced disruptions before. During the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers successfully transitioned the event online. When restrictions eased, the gathering returned in-person, reuniting authors, editors, and industry professionals from around the world.
This time, however, the challenges proved impossible to overcome.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Despite the setback, organizers are already setting their sights on the future. Plans are underway for the next conference, scheduled for October 23–25, 2026. Leading up to that, writers can look forward to virtual master classes on October 21 and both in-person and live-streamed sessions on October 22.
Updates will be shared on the official website, siwc.ca.
Why the Strike Began
The strike itself began on July 5, when more than 140 workers at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel walked off the job. Members of Unifor Local 3000—including housekeepers, servers, front desk staff, and maintenance crews—have been without a contract since April 2024.
After over a year of negotiations, workers voted to reject a tentative deal and launched legal strike action. Union representatives say they are fighting for fair wages, improved benefits, and better working conditions.
What It Means for Writers
For now, authors and industry professionals will need to wait another year to gather in Surrey. While disappointing, the cancellation underscores the ripple effect labor disputes can have on cultural events.
Still, the community spirit that has kept SiWC alive for over three decades is strong. Writers may miss the 2025 gathering, but anticipation for 2026 is already building.
