Malahat Review — Open Season Awards

Overview
The Malahat Review, one of Canada's most enduring literary journals, has opened submissions for its Open Season Awards. This annual contest recognizes exceptional work in three genres: poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction. The competition is open to writers worldwide, reflecting the magazine's commitment to diverse voices and international literary exchange. With no entry fee, the award is accessible to all writers, regardless of financial background. The winner in each genre will receive a prize of CAD$2,000 and publication in the magazine's spring 2027 issue (#238). This dual recognition—financial support and a prominent platform—offers tangible validation and exposure. The judging panel comprises esteemed writers: Ayaz Pirani for poetry, Lareina Abbott for fiction, and Anuja Varghese for creative nonfiction. Their expertise ensures that submissions are evaluated with rigor and sensitivity to the nuances of each form. The Malahat Review has a long-standing reputation for publishing work that is both artistically ambitious and emotionally resonant. The Open Season Awards are not merely a contest but a curatorial statement: a commitment to identifying and nurturing writing that challenges, moves, and endures. Writers are encouraged to submit their strongest, most polished work, understanding that the judges seek originality, craft, and a distinctive voice.