The Become the River Literary Festival of Coloma brings together writers and environmental advocates to explore voices shaped by their connection to rivers and watersheds in both written and spoken word.

Festival keynote speakers and panel participants consist of writers, poets, and representatives from watershed/river focused non-profit organizations. Panel discussions include how connections to rivers and watersheds shape our lives, work, and art.The Festival also includes a book fair featuring the work of the keynote speakers and panel presenters, and information tables for participating non-profit organizations.

In 2025, the inaugural Become the Rivery Literary Festival of Coloma was held at the Gold Trail Grange Hall in Marshall Gold Discovery Historic State Park on the banks of the South Fork of the American River. For more information about last year’s festival, as well as more information about the 2026 Festival, please visit the organizer website below.