What COVID-19 precautions will be taken and what will I need to do?

With the number of cases decreasing, our plans for the retreat are for face-to-face participation. Events are scheduled to accommodate social distancing. Should there be a resurgence of cases in northern Minnesota, we will follow the recommendations and guidance of the Minnesota Department of Health which are updated frequently. At this time we do not anticipate offering the retreat as a virtual experience. If circumstances warrant cancellation, we will offer deferred participation at a future date to be determined or a refund. 

We encourage you to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Masks are welcomed but not required. Clean your hands often. Monitor your health daily. If you are not feeling well at any point during the retreat, stay in your accommodations and arrange to have a COVID-19 test.

Can I bring my partner and/or my children to the retreat? 

The pricing is only for the participant in the retreat, however, we want you to feel free to bring your family to Fosston to enjoy all it has to offer. Meals for non-retreat guests are not included, however, the general public is welcomed to purchase tickets to our Friday night Evening Out with Elisa. If your children will be accompanying you, please make plans to keep them busy and safe while you are involved with our retreat activities. Learn more about Fosston at www.fosston.com. 

What will the weather be like?

The end of April in northern Minnesota means spring should be here, but sometimes there’s still snow on the ground. As any good Minnesotan knows, layers are always a good option.

What should I wear?

Dress is causal and comfortable. Bring walking shoes for strolling around town or to enjoy local hiking paths.  For yoga sessions, dress should be comfortable but not too baggy.

What’s the schedule?

The writing retreat begins Thursday evening, April 21 with a welcome reception beginning at 5:00pm. The retreat concludes with the Saturday evening dinner and storytelling beginning at 5:00pm and ending at 8:00pm. There is no programming or meals scheduled for Sunday, April 24.

Do I have to attend every writing workshop session?

No. While all events are included in your registration fee, your attendance is not mandatory. These sessions are intended to spark your creativity and if you want to spend some time working on your writing instead, please feel free to do so.

Will I be required to read or share my writing with others?

No. Sharing your work is entirely voluntary although we would encourage you to share your creative writing with others as you feel appropriate. You will have an opportunity to have a private and confidential consultation session with the retreat presenters to ask for advice and guidance.

What if I love the idea of a writing retreat but have never done any writing before?

This is your retreat and we will meet you where you are. This is your chance to explore your creative expressions in writing. Our aim is to provide a supportive and affirming environment for every writer.

What if I have a work-in-progress and am a serious writing professional. Will this retreat offer me anything I don’t already know? 

We hope so! It never hurts to spend time with other writers and talk shop. 

What if I have needs that may require special accommodations? 

If you are a vegan or have food allergies, we can deal with that. If you have limited mobility, we offer a bus option to get around town. If you have other needs, please let us know and we will make every effort to make your retreat as comfortable and accommodating as possible. 

Do I need to bring my laptop computer? Is there wifi? 

If you prefer to write on a computer, please feel free to bring your laptop. You are not required to do so. Writing in longhand is perfectly acceptable. Yes, there will be WiFi available in most locations.  

Will there be time to write outside of the workshop sessions?

Yes, there will be some scheduled time for individual writing, but not a lot. If you want to skip some of the planned activities to spend more time writing, please feel free to do so.

Do I have to participate in the storytelling event?

Participation is optional but encouraged!