Call for Submissions
Take part in the Writers’ Community of York Region’s (WCYR’s) third writing contest and anthology on the theme of past, present, and future.
We’re looking for work that reflects on time—what carries forward from the past, what we’re living through in the present, and what might lie ahead in the future. This theme is open to all genres, be it personal, speculative, reflective, historical, or imaginative.
We welcome submissions in three categories:
- Poetry (up to 48 lines)
- Flash Fiction (150–300 words)
- Short Story (1,000–1,500 words)
Details:
- Open for submissions: 20 September–20 November 2026
- Entry fee: $20 for WCYR & WCDR members and $25 for non-members
- Theme: Past, Present, and Future
- Prizes in each of the categories:
- 1st place: $50
- 2nd place: $30
- 3rd place: $20
- Honourable mention: a free copy of the printed anthology
Writers may submit multiple entries, provided each piece is entered in a different category.
We are seeking strong, voice-driven work that engages with the theme in original and meaningful ways.
Submissions will be evaluated through a blind review process by a panel of judges. All entries that reflect the theme will be published in an anthology in spring of 2027. Entries awarded first, second, and third place will be recognized in the final collection.
Guidelines:
- Registration is open to everyone from 12:01 a.m. EST on 20 September 2026 to 11:59 p.m. EST on 20 November 2026. Entries will not be accepted or allowed to be modified after the deadline.
- Entry fee (nonrefundable) is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.
- The number of entries is capped at 40.
- Entries must be original, non-published works in English, and the submitter must hold the copyright. Previously published works are not eligible, including publication on a personal website or blog. WCYR reserves the right to screen entries to ensure compliance with this rule.
- One author may submit across categories, but each entry will be subject to a submission fee and a separate entry form.
- All submissions must adhere to word/line limits per category.
- AI-generated entries are not eligible. WCYR reserves the right to screen entries to ensure compliance with this rule.
- By submitting your work, you are giving WCYR the non-exclusive right to publish your story.
- Work must be suitable for a general audience without harmful stereotypes and perspectives, graphic sex, violence, hate, or explicit language. Any discriminatory content will be disqualified.
- All entries will be read blind by a panel of judges. Please do not include identifying information such as your name or email in your story.
- File types accepted: Word, pdf, or Google Docs.
- You may withdraw your piece from the contest by contacting us at wcyr.anthology@gmail.com, but the entry fee will not be refunded.
If your work explores memory, significant moments, or future possibilities, we would love to read it.
Timeline:
- 12:01 a.m. EST on 20 September 2026: contest open for submissions
- 11:59 p.m. EST on 20 November 2026: deadline for submissions
- 28 February 2027: winners announced
- 30 April 2027: publication date
To Enter:
- Complete the Submissions Form.
- Check your email for the link to pay the entry fee.
If you have any questions, please contact wcyr.anthology@gmail.com.