A guide to Ottawa-based literary publications and organizations
Looking to get involved with the Ottawa literary community, but not sure where to start? Below, we’ve compiled a list of literary magazines, presses, and organizations that are the backbone of literary happenings in the region—use it to get informed, get involved, or get published!
Bywords.ca
Bywords.ca is the literary hub of Ottawa. On their website, you can find writing by Ottawa poets and a regularly updated calendar featuring literary events happening in the region. Bywords.ca publishes their online magazine on the 15th of each month: here’s where you can read their submission guidelines.
Common House Magazine
Common House Magazine is the University of Ottawa’s new student-run online publication publishing writing by UOttawa students and members of the broader community. They have revived the Blue Mondays open mic series, hosted at Avant Garde bar. You can find them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook or join their mailing list to be updated on their publication and events.
Arc Poetry Magazine
Arc Poetry Magazine is where you can find poetry and everything poetry-related. Arc publishes poetry that is “woozy, cunning, shearing, and wildlike” and essays, interviews, and articles “that offer new perspectives on the verse you thought you knew.” Having recently published their 99th issue, Arc is a longstanding publisher in the region. They host many contests, including the monthly Arc Award of Awesomeness.
flo. literary magazine
flo. is a print-only literary magazine dedicated to publishing short stories, creative nonfiction, and poetry by writers residing in the Ottawa-Gatineau area. They publish issues semi annually, and are entering their second year of publishing.
above/ground press
Founded in 1993, above/ground press is possibly the longest running chapbook publisher in the area. To date, they have over 1000 publications in their name, including Touch the Donkey, a small poetry magazine.
Riverbed Reading Series
Riverbed Reads brings together poets, musicians, and those existing somewhere between the two in one “inclusive, experimental gathering space.” Past events featured the likes of Charlie Petch, Grant Wilkins, and Kimberly Quiogue Andrews amongst other talented individuals. They are currently operating with a hybrid model; you can attend their events in person at SAW Gallery or from the comfort of your home.
AngelHouse Press
AngelHouse Press began as a chapbook publisher in 2007, but since 2019 has since become an online publisher prioritizing work by women, BIPOC, 2SLGBTQIA, disabled and gender nonconforming writers and artists.
Apt. 9 Press
Apt. 9 press launched in 2009, and has since been publishing handmade chapbooks of poetry, short fiction, and non-fiction by emerging and established writers. Recent publications boast writing by Jo Ianni and Marilyn Irwin.
Know of a magazine, small press, or organization that should be on this list? Contact us!