Name: Chippewa Valley Book Festival: "Writing in Your Own Backyard: Local Columnists On Writing the Chippewa Valley"
Start: 2026-10-21
End: 2026-10-21

Located in western Wisconsin, Eau Claire offers sports planners a destination that's easy to reach, easy to navigate, and ready to host. Just 90 minutes from the Minneapolis–St. Paul area and within driving distance of Chicago, Eau Claire is well positioned to welcome teams, athletes, and fans from across the Midwest.

A versatile mix of indoor and outdoor venues supports events across a wide range of sports and competition levels, with tournament-ready fields, courts, ice facilities, pools, trails, and large-scale indoor spaces. Hotels, restaurants, venues, and visitor amenities are conveniently located throughout the community, making it easy for teams to get where they need to be throughout the event.

Visit Eau Claire's sports team works alongside event organizers to help bring the details together, connecting planners with venues, accommodations, local resources, and destination support.

And there's plenty waiting beyond the competition. Eau Claire's walkable downtown, local restaurants and breweries, miles of trails, public art, live music, family attractions, and the Chippewa River give athletes and their families more to experience between games and after the final whistle.

Eau Claire has the facilities to host the event and the destination experience to make the trip worth it.**** Bring the competition, bring the crowd, and come as you are — Eau Claire is ready to host.

Visit Eau Claire

Join Leader-Telegram Sawdust Stories columnists of the past and present–Patti See, John Hildebrand, and Nickolas Butler–for a conversation and mini workshop on how to write the stories closest to home. Through conversation, examples, and guided exercises, participants will explore the short essay writing process–from the spark of an idea to the beginnings of a draft.

Whether you’re a longtime writer, simply someone interested in preserving stories from your family, community, or everyday life, or are just interested in learning more about the writing process, this workshop is for you.

Chippewa Valley Book Festival: "Writing in Your Own Backyard: Local Columnists On Writing the Chippewa Valley"

Discover comfort and convenience at the Best Western Plus Eau Claire Conference Center, ideally located at 3340 Mondovi Rd, Eau Claire, WI. Perfect for both business travelers and families, this hotel offers a seamless blend of upscale accommodations and exceptional services. Guests can unwind in spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a restful stay. The hotel prides itself on its robust conference facilities, catering to business meetings and events with well-appointed spaces and state-of-the-art technology.

Families will appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere and the indoor heated pool, perfect for year-round enjoyment. Fitness enthusiasts can stay active at the on-site gym, while business visitors have access to a professional business center that supports their work needs. Begin your day with a complimentary breakfast, featuring a wide selection of American dishes that cater to diverse dietary preferences.

The hotel’s location offers easy access to picturesque attractions, including the Chippewa River State Trail and Carson Park, making it an excellent base for exploring Eau Claire’s vibrant cultural and natural landscapes. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, the Best Western Plus Eau Claire Conference Center provides a welcoming retreat designed to meet every guest's needs. Experienced staff are dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay, always ready to assist with a warm smile. 

Best Western Plus Eau Claire Conference Center

Discover the comfort and convenience of Staybridge Suites Eau Claire - Altoona, an IHG Hotel, where every stay feels like a home away from home. Situated in the charming town of Altoona, Wisconsin, this all-suite hotel is perfect for extended stays, offering spacious accommodations ideal for business travelers, families, and vacationers alike. Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen, separate living areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi to ensure a seamless blend of work and relaxation.

Start your day with our complimentary hot breakfast buffet, offering a variety of delicious options to satisfy every palate. Guests can enjoy unwinding in the hotel's indoor pool or keeping up with their fitness routine at the 24-hour fitness center. Our outdoor patio with a fire pit provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere to relax after a day's adventures.

Located within close proximity to Eau Claire's vibrant downtown, Staybridge Suites provides easy access to local attractions such as the Pablo Center at the Confluence and the scenic River Prairie Park. Designed with the needs of modern travelers in mind, our hotel is also pet-friendly, welcoming furry friends to enjoy the comfort of their owners' company.

For those traveling on business, our well-appointed meeting spaces are perfect for small gatherings or conferences, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and professional support services. Whether visiting for work or leisure, guests are sure to appreciate the thoughtful amenities and warm hospitality that make Staybridge Suites Eau Claire - Altoona a premier choice for any stay. 

Staybridge Suites Eau Claire - Altoona, an IHG Hotel

Nestled in the picturesque city of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Maple Manor Motel offers a charming and comfortable retreat for all travelers. Located conveniently along S Hastings Way, this motel provides easy access to both natural beauty and urban attractions. The motel is ideal for families and tourists looking to explore the scenic landscapes and vibrant cultural scenes of the area.

Maple Manor Motel features a range of well-appointed rooms, ensuring a restful stay for every guest. Each room is designed with comfort in mind, equipped with essential amenities such as air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and cozy furnishings. Guests can expect a warm welcome and attentive service throughout their stay.

For families, the motel offers kid-friendly accommodations, making it a perfect choice for those visiting local attractions or attending events nearby. While staying here, visitors can enjoy convenient proximity to popular sites in Eau Claire, enhancing the appeal of Maple Manor Motel as a base for exploration.

Situated a short drive from bustling downtown Eau Claire, guests have easy access to a variety of dining and entertainment options. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Maple Manor Motel provides a pleasant and efficient stay, ensuring guests can make the most of their time in this charming Wisconsin locale. 

Maple Manor Motel

Nestled in the picturesque town of Altoona, Wisconsin, Otter Creek Inn offers a charming escape with all the comforts of a classic bed-and-breakfast experience. This quaint inn presents an inviting atmosphere perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway or travelers looking to explore the scenic surroundings. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully decorated rooms, each offering a unique blend of comfort and style, ensuring a restful stay.

Otter Creek Inn prides itself on offering a complimentary homemade breakfast, complete with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, providing an authentic taste of the region. Guests can delight in the savory and sweet options prepared each morning, catering to various preferences. The inn's beautiful garden and terrace areas offer idyllic spots for relaxation or socializing, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.

Conveniently located near downtown Altoona and Eau Claire, the inn provides easy access to local attractions, shopping, and dining experiences, enhancing its appeal as a base for exploration. With its warm, personalized service, Otter Creek Inn invites guests to unwind and enjoy the peaceful charm of a countryside retreat while being just minutes away from the vibrancy of city life. Whether seeking a weekend escape or an extended stay, Otter Creek Inn ensures a memorable and welcoming experience in the heart of Wisconsin. 

Otter Creek Inn

Discover the Fairfield Inn & Suites Eau Claire Chippewa Falls, a welcoming retreat located at 1666 Princeton Crossing, Eau Claire, WI. Perfectly suited for both business travelers and vacationers, this hotel offers a serene setting paired with convenient access to local attractions. Guests can relax in comfortable, contemporary rooms equipped with plush bedding and free high-speed Wi-Fi, making it easy to unwind or catch up on work. 

Start your day with a complimentary breakfast featuring a variety of options to suit any preference. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site gym to maintain their routine, while the indoor pool provides a refreshing escape for relaxation. The hotel's strategic location near major highways makes it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls.

Business guests will find the Fairfield Inn & Suites to be an ideal choice, with its well-appointed meeting spaces and proximity to key corporations and event venues. Families and tourists can enjoy nearby attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages. With a commitment to delivering exceptional service and a warm atmosphere, Fairfield Inn & Suites Eau Claire Chippewa Falls is the perfect place to stay, promising comfort and convenience with each visit. 

Fairfield Inn & Suites Eau Claire Chippeawa Falls

Nestled in the heart of Eau Claire, the Residence Inn by Marriott offers a welcoming retreat for both business travelers and extended-stay guests. Its spacious suites are thoughtfully designed to provide all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens and separate living areas, perfect for families or guests on longer visits. Business travelers will appreciate the convenient location with easy access to nearby corporate offices and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi to ensure productivity.

Guests can start their day with a delicious complimentary American breakfast, fueling the day's adventures or meetings. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel features a heated indoor pool, while fitness enthusiasts can maintain their routine in the well-equipped fitness center. The hotel’s proximity to popular attractions such as the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire and the majestic Carson Park makes it an excellent choice for families and tourists alike.

While staying at the Residence Inn, guests also have access to the hotel’s outdoor spaces, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring the vibrant city of Eau Claire. Whether you are in town for business or leisure, the Residence Inn by Marriott Eau Claire promises a comfortable and convenient stay tailored to your needs. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Eau Claire

Nestled in the heart of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites offers guests a comfortable and convenient stay. Ideal for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing essential comforts, this hotel provides a solid choice for both business and leisure stays. Guests can enjoy the comfort of well-appointed rooms that are designed to meet basic needs, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Family travelers will find convenience in the spacious suites, accommodating a variety of room configurations to suit their preferences. 

The hotel features complimentary amenities, including Wi-Fi, helping guests stay connected throughout their visit. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast featuring a selection of continental favorites, perfect for fueling up before exploring the local area or heading to meetings. 

Strategically located, the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites offers easy access to key attractions such as the Eau Claire Farmers Market and the scenic Phoenix Park. Whether you’re here to take in a local event or to enjoy the vibrant downtown atmosphere, the hotel's proximity to transport links makes it a convenient base. 

For business travelers, the hotel offers facilities suited for basic business needs, ensuring connectivity and convenience during your stay. With a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites is committed to providing an enjoyable experience, making it a great choice for those visiting Eau Claire. 

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites

Welcome to the Metropolis Resort & Conference Center, your ultimate destination for comfort and convenience in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Located at 5150 Fairview Drive, this elegant retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment, catering to both leisure and business travelers. 

Stay in our spacious and modern rooms, designed to provide a restful night's sleep and equipped with all the modern amenities you need. Whether you're here on business or pleasure, our state-of-the-art conference center is ideal for meetings, events, or banquets, featuring versatile spaces and professional support to ensure success.

Families will love our indoor water park, providing endless fun for children and adults alike. Dive into a world of excitement with exhilarating water slides or relax along the lazy river. For those seeking additional entertainment, we offer an arcade full of the latest games and attractions.

Dine at our on-site restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of delicious options crafted to suit all tastes. Whether you're starting your day with a hearty breakfast or unwinding with dinner after a day of exploring, our culinary offerings promise to delight.

Conveniently located near popular attractions and shopping centers, the Metropolis Resort & Conference Center is the perfect home base for discovering Eau Claire. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, let us make your stay unforgettable with unparalleled hospitality and amenities. 

Metropolis Resort & Conference Center

Welcome to Home2 Suites by Hilton Eau Claire South, a premier destination for those seeking comfort and convenience in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Situated in the heart of Oakwood Hills, our hotel offers easy access to the vibrant local area, making it an ideal choice for both business travelers and family vacationers alike. Enjoy our spacious suites, each equipped with fully furnished kitchens and flexible living spaces designed to accommodate your needs, whether you're staying for a short visit or an extended trip.

We proudly offer a range of amenities designed to enhance your stay, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and an indoor pool, perfect for staying active or unwinding after a long day. Our free breakfast, featuring a variety of American-style options, ensures you start your day on the right foot. For guests traveling with their four-legged friends, the Home2 Suites is pet-friendly, welcoming all members of your family.

Located just minutes from major attractions, shopping, and dining options, our hotel positions you perfectly to explore everything Eau Claire has to offer. Whether you're visiting for work, leisure, or a bit of both, Home2 Suites by Hilton Eau Claire South combines convenience with comfort, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful Wisconsin locale. 

Home2 Suites by Hilton Eau Claire South

Discover comfort and convenience at Best Western Eau Claire South, located at 3614 Gateway Dr, Eau Claire, WI. This welcoming hotel offers an ideal retreat for business travelers, tourists, and families alike. Enjoy the tranquility of spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a restful stay. 

Business travelers will appreciate the hotel’s seamless connectivity, with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the property, as well as access to business centers for any professional needs. Families and couples can relax in our inviting indoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Eau Claire’s attractions. The fitness center provides travelers with an opportunity to maintain their workout routines while away from home.

Guests can start their day with a delicious complimentary breakfast, fueling their adventures in the city. Best Western Eau Claire South is conveniently located near several key attractions, allowing visitors to easily access the city's vibrant downtown, abundant parks, and cultural sites. The hotel’s proximity to major highways and transport hubs also ensures smooth travel experiences.

With a focus on exceptional service and a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction, Best Western Eau Claire South invites you to experience a stay that blends relaxation with practicality, making it a delightful choice for your next visit to Eau Claire. 

Chippewa Valley Book Festival: "Writing in Your Own Backyard: Local Columnists On Writing the Chippewa Valley"

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