The 10th Annual Rancho Mirage Writers Festival of 2024 took place from January 31 to February 2, 2024. The theme for this year, “Celebrating Ten Years of RMWF,” was especially fitting, marking the festival’s 10th anniversary. This literary event, dedicated to the appreciation of literature and authors, went beyond being a mere gathering – it served as a powerful catalyst for the community, fostering engaging conversations and paying homage to the art of the written word. The event had drawn a substantial crowd, with tickets selling out swiftly and approximately 1,000 enthusiastic attendees relishing three days filled with an impressive lineup of 70 panels and events.
In the meticulous curation of featured guests, RMWF programmers had set their sights on accomplished writers who excelled in their literary pursuits and possessed a gift for compelling public speaking. These sought-after authors were discovered through diverse channels, including major publishing houses and various media platforms such as NPR, television, radio, and magazines. Notably, identifying noteworthy writers had become more streamlined as the festival had become a hotspot within the literary community. Writers were actively expressing their interest in being part of this cultural sensation.
The 2024 roster of distinguished authors showcased the diversity of talent within the literary world, featuring notable figures such as filmmaker and actor John Waters, bestselling novelist Elin Hilderbrand, and decorated U.S. Army Gen. David H. Petraeus. Beyond the spotlight on these luminaries, the festival also carried a philanthropic mission. It contributed to the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory Foundation, ensuring that a portion of the proceeds went toward maintaining and expanding the library’s collection and programming.
For those who missed this year or for those who would like to relive the experience, the organizers provided a thoughtful solution. Every session was recorded and will subsequently be uploaded to the Rancho Mirage Writers Festival YouTube channel within a two-week time frame. This approach not only preserved the essence of the festival but also extended its reach, enabling everyone, regardless of attendance, to partake in the literary richness and cultural vibrancy of the Rancho Mirage Writers Festival free of charge.
Rancho Mirage Writers Festival
Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory
71-100 Highway 111 | Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
(760) 341-7323 | rmwritersfest.org
Jamie Kabler, Festival Founder
Aaron Espinosa, Executive Director
Deborah C. Dejah, Director of Programming
Debbie Green Miller, Executive Producer
