Best in Rural Writing Contest

The Best in Rural Writing Contest is run by The Milk House, an online literary platform dedicated to exploring the rural experience through fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and music. The contest accepts both short stories and creative essays, and work that has already been published (or is scheduled for publication) elsewhere is eligible to enter.

Submissions must be connected in some way to “the rural” — the interpretation of this is deliberately broad and not limited to rural characters or settings. Entries are read anonymously by the judge; the 2026 judge is celebrated American author Will Weaver. Ten entries will be shortlisted, from which the judge selects the best short story and best essay. A final vote — split between the audience, the judge, a co-sponsor, and a Milk House staff member — determines the overall winner.

The contest is international and open to writers worldwide. WRITER or SUPPORTER subscribers to The Milk House may enter one submission free of charge. The top two finalists will have the option to be published in the print Best in Rural Writing anthology; shortlisted authors may also elect to have their work published on The Milk House website in 2027.

First place receives $500 and second place $200.

Is this competition legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any event, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work.

FAQ
If you are curious how writing competitions work, or it’s your first time entering one, we recommend reading our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page first.