Treat Yourself to an Immersive Writing Retreat and Make Your Writing Passion a Priority

Our 2023 Winter Writers Retreat is returning!

Catch our full line-up announcement on our Facebook, Instagram or Youtube channel in 2023.

Enjoy an extended weekend of inspiration and self-discovery set against the waterfront backdrop of beautiful, historic downtown Kingston

Finding the space, time, and energy to write can be a challenge. Families, jobs, day-to-day chores, and the inertia of staring at the same four walls can sap your motivation and stunt your creativity. This March, take your own break, and treat yourself to a weekend committed to your writing and yourself, to get away, recharge, and get inspired.

Our Writers Retreat offers you the opportunity to learn practical writing techniques from nine award-winning and critically acclaimed authors in an intimate, judgement-free environment. Whether you’ve been writing for years, or just putting pen to paper, these classes will improve your skills, increase your confidence, and help you to become a more expressive, effective writer.

In Person Packages

The Four-Day Retreat includes access to all 12 writing classes in a limited enrollment comfortable setting with all appropriate safety and social distancing measures in place. Enjoy coffee, tea and baked goods in the morning and post-lunch sessions.

The full retreat ticket package is $360 includes all HST and handling fees (a $480 value). The retreat package is now on SALE.

Your Waterfront Retreat

Your writing getaway starts when you check in at the Delta Hotel by Marriott Kingston Waterfront, nestled right on the shore of Lake Ontario. Each room features a desk with multiple connectivity docks, an ergonomic chair and complimentary Wi-Fi, so you’re ready to write whenever inspiration strikes.

Need a bit of fresh air? Step outside and you are on Kingston’s 8km waterfront trail, and steps from historic sites, vibrant downtown shopping, hip coffee shops, and world-class restaurants.

Prefer to stay cozy? Enjoy fine dining at the award-winning AquaTerra restaurant (or order it to your room), or visit the Vu lobby bar for a night cap and a bite to eat after a long day of writing and sightseeing. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit for a dip in the pool or a whirlpool unwind!

Here’s what people say about our Winter Writers Retreat:

“Fabulous. Helpful tips interspersed with writing exercises and small break out groups was excellent. So inspiring and stimulating.”
“What a gem – the most genuinely inspiring few hours I’ve had the fortune of experiencing.”

“Well organized, writer-friendly, good exercises, well-answered questions.”
“Absolutely fantastic! … Engaging, funny and insightful… so positive and encouraging to us as fledgling writers… I came away from the workshops with 27 post-it notes of specific things to integrate into my writing.”

“Quite delightful and engaging. Thought-provoking… Creates a safe space.”
“Excellent presentation of both abstract and detailed material… The exercises were fun and helpful.”

“I learned a great deal and I did not feel that my lack of experience was a hindrance.”
“Loved the writers retreat. Sessions long enough to really learn something… I will be back!”

Class Policy

To maintain social distancing guidelines, we’ve limited enrollment to ensure everyone can write in a safe environment.
Masks are strongly recommended to be worn at all times and masks, along with hand sanitizer, will be provided for all.
Lastly, please stay home if you are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms or have been in contact with someone with Covid-19.

Cancellation Policy

It is your responsibility to read and understand our cancellation policy before making a reservation. Since spots for the retreat are strictly limited, all sales are final.
If you are unable to travel to the event due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, please email us at info@kingstonwritersfest.ca .
If KWF must cancel an event, a refund will be issued to registrants.

Thank You to Our Supporters!

There are no upcoming events.