I’ve been missing the old feeling of November being the month when writers all quietly lose their minds together, so I ended up building a small alternative.
It’s called 50k by Lanternlight — a free November writing challenge for anyone aiming at 50,000 words, or a smaller personal goal if 50k isn’t your thing.
There’s a simple online tracker, progress tools, a printable completion certificate, and a Discord community that’s just starting to come to life.
The idea isn’t to replace NaNoWriMo or become some giant organisation. I wanted something smaller, warm, independent, and focused on the actual writing.
Registration is open now for November 2026:
If anyone here is planning a November project and wants some accountability and company, you’d be very welcome around the lantern.