The Montclair Writing Retreat 2026

Come join us at the Highlights Foundation campus for The Montclair Writing Retreat with author Laurie Lico Albanese. There will be delicious, locally sourced meals, with snacks and beverages throughout the day. This 3-night, 2-day retreat will feature introductory exercises on Thursday evening followed by 3-hour generative workshops on Friday and Saturday mornings beginning 9 am. Afternoons will be dedicated to individual writer’s longer works (up to 50 pages to be submitted at least 2 weeks ahead) Friday and Saturday, 2-5 pm.

The Highlights Foundation campus has ample opportunities for relaxing, walking, hiking, bird watching and gorgeous sunsets as the campus is surrounded by nature and farms. This setting is sure to ignite your creativity and inspire you well beyond the retreat experience.

You may check into your lodging any time after 3pm on arrival day.  If you arrive prior to 3pm, you may enjoy the grounds and various work and gathering places around the facility as your room is being prepared. The first meal on campus will be appetizers at 5:30pm and dinner at 6:00pm.  If you arrive late, we can save dinner for you with advance notice.

Lunch on the final day of your stay is included, but we ask that you check out of your lodging by 11am. You are welcome to leave your packed bags by the door of your room/cabin while you enjoy lunch and say your goodbyes. Housekeeping may enter your room during this period to begin cleaning and prepping for our next guests.  Thank you for your consideration.

Info/Questions:

Please note that your lodging will be in the Lodge. All rooms have private baths. There is a kitchenette, stocked with a Keurig with coffee/tea and other beverages, as well as snacks.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team with any questions and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.