The Rancho Mirage Writers Festival is set to return for its 11th year, taking place from February 5 to 7, 2025, at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. Known as the “Coachella for the brain,” the festival continues to bring together some of the world’s most celebrated authors, thinkers, and readers for a three-day celebration of literature, storytelling, and intellectual exchange.
The success of the festival is made possible through the support of its dedicated community, including Angels (donors), passionate Readers, and the City of Rancho Mirage. Their commitment has helped create a space where literature thrives, fostering thought-provoking conversations and a shared appreciation for the written word.
This year introduces a special two-year theme: Celebrating the United States Semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. Through books, discussions, and author panels, the festival will explore America’s past, present, and future—honoring its journey while imagining what lies ahead.
The Rancho Mirage Writers Festival remains a place where diverse ideas and perspectives are welcomed, encouraging learning, reflection, and inspiration. Attendees can expect an engaging lineup of speakers and discussions that highlight the power of storytelling to connect and enlighten.
2025 Writers:
Kaveh Akbar
Rick Atkinson
Theo Baker
Robert Barnett
James Bennet
Max Boot
H.W. Brands
Douglas Brinkley
Frank Bruni
Roz Chast
Jelani Cobb
Ambassador Ivo Daalder
Bill Gates
Doris Kearns Goodwin
Meryl Gordon
Kristin Hannah
Chris Hayes
David Hogg
Hua Hsu
Molly Jong-Fast
Sidney Karger
Jonathan Karl
Patrick Radden Keefe
Sam Kestenbaum
Harry Litman
Dr. Valter Longo
Molly Guptill Manning
Jon Meacham
Tim Miller
Richard Osman
Tyler Pager
Dr. Satchin Panda
Rachel Pastan
Allison Pataki
General David H. Petraeus
Steven Pinker
Ryan J. Reilly
Mo Rocca
Karl Rove
Steven Rowley
Seth Rudetsky
Lis Smith
Bret Stephens
Rick Steves
Melissa Stockwell
Evan Thomas
Jeffrey Toobin
Bradley Tusk
Bruce Vilanch
Jesmyn Ward
Ralph White
Rick Wilson
Lawrence Wright
Event Details:
Dates: February 5–7, 2025
Locations: Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory
For more information, visit www.rmwritersfest.org