arrow-right cart chevron-down chevron-left chevron-right chevron-up close menu minus play plus search share user email pinterest facebook instagram snapchat tumblr twitter vimeo youtube subscribe dogecoin dwolla forbrugsforeningen litecoin amazon_payments american_express bitcoin cirrus discover fancy interac jcb master paypal stripe visa diners_club dankort maestro trash

Shopping Cart

Writing Workshops Portland September 2026

Portland is built for writers.


This is the city of Powell's Books, of Ursula K. Le Guin, of a coffee culture so serious it became its own art form. The Pacific Northwest has always been a place where people come to think more slowly, look more carefully, and write more honestly, and for one week in September 2026, we're bringing our most intimate retreat program to Portland.


Led by Antonio Ruiz-Camacho, Minda Honey, and Sanibel Lazar, Writing Workshops Portland brings together fiction and nonfiction writers for an intensive week of workshops, craft seminars, one-on-one conferences, and in-depth conversations about the craft and business of writing. 


Our program is intentionally small: two fiction cohorts and one nonfiction cohort, each capped at 10 writers, led by three of the most distinctive voices working in American literature today.

How the Week Works


Every writer in the program submits two completed pieces of writing before arrival. The first is workshopped by your cohort and instructor. The second goes into your private one-on-one conference with your workshop leader — time set aside just for you and your work.


Daily craft talks are open to all participants. Optional afternoon seminars go deep on specific elements of craft and the writing life. Evenings belong to the group: dinners, a coffee tasting in the morning, a wine tasting in the evening, and a final reading on the last night.


This is not a large conference. There are no panels of strangers, no name tags on lanyards. There are 30 writers and three extraordinary teachers, spending a week together in one of America's great literary cities.

Applications for our September 2026 Workshops Are Open!

Workshop Dates: 


September 16–21, 2026


Tuition is $2,995 (includes 5 nights lodging at Hotel Lucia)


Though our admissions process is competitive and the quality of writing high, all interested writers are encouraged to apply.

Workshop Faculty

Antonio Ruiz-Camacho — Fiction: National Magazine Award finalist. Jesse H. Jones Award winner for Best Book of Fiction. Knight Journalism Fellow at Stanford. Dobie Paisano Fellow at UT Austin. Antonio's debut story collection Barefoot Dogs was named a Best Book by Kirkus Reviews, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Texas Observer, and PRI's The World. His work has appeared in The New York Times, Salon, and Texas Monthly. He holds an MFA from The New Writers Project at UT Austin. You will leave his workshop a different writer than you arrived.

Minda Honey — Nonfiction: Minda Honey's essays on politics and relationships have appeared in Harper's Bazaar, The Washington Post, The Guardian, the Oxford American, and Longreads. Her debut memoir, The Heartbreak Years (Little A, 2023), is a portrait of a woman figuring out who she is and who she wants to be — intimate, hilarious, and deeply honest. Her work appears in anthologies including Burn It Down: Women Writing About Anger and A Measure of Belonging: 21 Writers of Color on the New American South. She is the kind of teacher who makes you braver on the page.

Sanibel Lazar — Fiction: Sanibel Lazar turned a self-published debut into a USA Today bestseller through sheer creative force and an audience she built on her own terms. Her second novel, Does This Make Me Look Rich?, is forthcoming from Union Square in 2027. Her essays and criticism appear in New York magazine, ELLE, Air Mail, and Literary Hub. She is the creator of Sad Rich Girls (via Bindery) and one of the most original voices on the intersection of money, identity, and desire in American writing today.

Lodging at Hotel Lucia

Home base for the week is Hotel Lucia, a downtown Portland landmark known for its extensive photography collection, its creative energy, and its location in the beating heart of the city. Bookstores, coffee shops, galleries, and great restaurants are steps from the front door. Your own private room is included in your tuition. Check in on Wednesday, September 16. Check out Monday, September 21.

Class Size

Each genre workshop will have no more than 10 participants, led by the genre faculty instructor. Daily craft talks are open to all participants and led by program staff or faculty.

Fiction & Nonfiction Workshops:
Ahead of our arrival in Portland, students will submit manuscripts according to their genre:

Fiction and Nonfiction Writers will submit two separate pieces of up to 5,000 words each (10,000 words total). One manuscript will be critiqued in the group workshop and include letters of critique from your peers and instructor; your second manuscript will be discussed in a one-on-one conference with your instructor in Portland.

Weekly Schedule

Wednesday, September 16

4:00 p.m. — Check-in at Hotel Lucia

5:30 p.m. — Meet-and-greet happy hour


Thursday, September 17 – Sunday, September 20

8:45 a.m.–2:45 p.m. — Workshops and one-on-one conferences with your instructor

3:00–4:00 p.m. — Optional afternoon seminars


Evenings — Optional group dinners, wine tasting, and a final group reading


Monday, September 21

12:00 p.m. — Check-out


**Details subject to change. The final version will be sent out a few weeks before the trip.

Why Portland. Why Now.


There's something about a literary city that loosens the writing. You walk past a bookstore and feel the permission to take your work seriously. You sit in a coffee shop and hear the particular silence of people thinking. Portland has that quality — a creative atmosphere that seeps into everything, that makes the work feel more possible.


Since 2018, we've taken writers to Paris, Dublin, Tuscany, Iceland, New Orleans and beyond. Every retreat we've run has produced writers who left with finished work, new friendships, and a clearer sense of where they're going. Portland will be no different.


Applications for Writing Workshops Portland open now. Space is limited.

Example Schedule Detail

**Details subject to change. The final version will be sent out a few weeks before the trip.**

Included Optional Activities

If you are able, we encourage you to attend our activities and group dinners (activities are included in the cost of the workshop, but everyone will be responsible for covering their own dinner and drinks, other than the wine tasting and coffee tour).  

Third Wave Coffee Tour

Portland is the spiritual home of the modern coffee movement. On one morning of the retreat, we'll join the experts at Third Wave Coffee Tours to explore the artistry and science behind every cup — the distinct flavors of the Pacific Northwest, the careful sourcing, the obsessive craft. Whether you're a devoted coffee person or just need something to wake you up before workshop, this is a morning worth your time.

Wine Tasting at The Portland Wine Bar

On Saturday evening, we'll gather at The Portland Wine Bar for a tasting designed around four wines that capture the depth of the region's viticulture. The setting is intimate and unpretentious. The conversation will be good. Come ready to let the day's workshop settle and the evening open up.

Happy Hour and Sample Reading (One-Page Salon)

On our final night together, we will gather for a final reading and then have a Farewell Dinner. 

Tuition

Tuition is $2,995 USD and includes the following:

  • Lodging in your own room at the Hotel Lucia for 6 days, 5 nights
  • 4-day writing workshops in small groups of no more than 10 writers, led by program faculty
  • Critical feedback on writing submissions
  • Daily craft of writing and/or business of writing seminars
  • One-on-one conference with faculty
  • Third Wave Coffee Tour and Wine Tasting at The Portland Wine Bar.
  • Please Note: meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are not included in the price of tuition.
  • Can I bring my partner or a guest? If you would like to bring your partner or a guest along for the trip (and share a room), the cost is $595 for the Portland Workshop.

Testimonials For Our Retreats

"The actual writing workshop did more for me in four days than my MFA did in two years. Elissa Bassist is amazing. I would attend another course with her in pretty much any city. She was the reason I registered for the Dublin workshop in the first place and I have absolutely no regrets. I would absolutely recommend it for someone looking for inspiration and to bring life back to their work. Elissa made me see my work in a new light that completely transformed my own understanding of my writing. If you're looking for both a wonderful trip and an opportunity to refocus creatively, this is definitely the workshop for you! The feedback from the other participants was a lot more than I was expecting, which was a positive! I felt a lot more inspired than I did throughout most of my graduate school work." -Rachel G.

"It was amazing. I am so so grateful that I was chosen to be a part of such a special space and rich experience." --Dakotah J.

"Writing Workshops Paris was an unforgettable, dare I say, 'life-changing' experience for me. I was astounded by the quality of instruction, the expertise of the staff, and the talent of my fellow participants. I learned so much during the workshop and made memories that will influence my writing for years to come. I would recommend it to anyone." -Emily N.

"Do this if you are serious about writing." -Jeannette B.

"In 2023, I went to Iceland to work with Writing Workshops — it was there the secret to landing essays and interviews was shared. I swear by Writing Workshops, but as a past participant I am under strict confidentiality to not share what we were taught. One must attend for themselves and learn secret handshakes etc." - Y. Conza

"I am blown away by how much I got out of this retreat! The workshop itself was worth the money. Add that to the one-on-one with Kelly Luce (invaluable) and the connections I've made with fellow writers as a result--definitely a bargain! I'm not sure I'd change anything. The length of time was just about right. The excursions were fun. I enjoyed gathering for lunch with the group too and meeting people from the other workshop. I wish I'd attended this workshop years ago! It's changed the way I approach writing--I think it's going to make me a much better writer." -Heather V.

"I had no idea what to expect on my trip; I'd never been to Paris, and while the workshop schedule seemed really interesting - filled with activities and free time to explore as I liked - I had no idea how much I would love every day I was part of the group. Blake and Mike went out of their way to make sure each group member was getting everything they possibly could from the experience. The excursions were fun and informative, the workshops inspiring and valuable. I would absolutely take another Writing Workshop trip again as soon as possible!" -Kristin P.

"This was my third retreat with Writing Workshops, and the workshop instruction in Tuscany was like a graduate-level course, and the hotel and events made the tuition very reasonable. It was an awesome location and perfect environment to think about and concentrate on my writing." -Lewis T.

"As a first timer, I had no idea what to expect. The event, activities, feedback, and sessions far exceeded what I thought it would be. I left with a bubbling brain that wanted to get back to writing. I spent the flight back home writing notes and thoughts on the event. And I meet some awesome people! Can't really put a price on those intangibles." -Ron C.

"Writing Workshops Iceland allowed me to reconnect with myself as a writer and to be in community with others who naturally understand my love for my craft. I learned. I had fun. I grew as a writer and a person. It was a perfect experience. I can't wait for the next trip!" -Bowie R.

"This was an absolutely wonderful experience. I learned so much in a short amount of time and made some great friends along the way. I will definitely come back!" -Anne G.

"As someone who has attended multiple workshops in a variety of locales with other organizations, I can say Blake and Mike offer a superior workshop with close attention to detail. It was meticulously planned, yet still flexible enough to make me feel like I could skip dinner one night when I needed a break. I loved the activities, especially the Morgan library. They ensure every writer gets the resources and experiences throughout the workshop to go home inspired and ready to take their project to the next stage. I had a wonderful time! I got a lot out of the feedback from my groupmates, and I'm excited to use it to move my manuscript forward." -Andrea R.

"Best experience I've had as a writer. I have done writing workshops before, but nothing like this one. I received genuinely transformative feedback, knowledge, and social support around my writing and novel. I will always be grateful for all I gained, learned, and experienced in this workshop. I can wholeheartedly say that the amateur writer who came into this workshop is now a tremendously evolved amateur writer with a new lens on transferring thought into text. I learned so much about my own craft, and how to tailor the style, and plot points to better suit the story I want to tell. The adventures, authors, experiences, feedback, people, places and workshops were gratifyingly high quality. It felt safe being an amateur. I received transformative feedback on my current WIP which has greatly shifted the ways I write." -Enrique E.

"There are not enough words to fully describe how amazing this workshop retreat was for me. Between the instructors, the city, the feedback, and the writing -- I was in writerly heaven. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to experience it, because it's something I will remember forever." -Jade E.

"I would do Writing Workshops Paris all over again if I could. It's a beautiful, almost-a-week long experience spent honing your craft, learning new skills, connecting with writers from around the world, and exploring Paris, a city with such incredible literary history. The experience has energized me about my writing and left me inspired." Amanda D.

"The 2024 Publishing Workshop in New York City exceeded my expectations. The unflappable good humor of organizers Blake and Mike coupled with their meticulous organization AND the access to an accomplished and accessible literary agent for the entire program was worth every penny. The bonuses were the pub crawl and the tour of the Morgan Museum. Not to mention great dinner spots and serious supportive critiquing during the workshops. By the time we did the public reading of a piece of our work, our group had bonded and cheered us on with great resound." -Heidi D.

"The workshop exceeded my expectations. The communication was excellent leading up to it, and Writing Workshops was on top of every detail. The nonfiction workshops was incredibly instructive and helpful, and I feel I learned a lot. The hotel was in a wonderful section of Paris, and the evening activities brought us closer as a group. The whole experience was life-changing (without sounding overly dramatic) and gratifying." -Ethan J.

"I am a published novelist, critic and journalist and taking a nonfiction workshop was really out of my comfort zone. I knew I'd learn something and become a better writer because of it, but I honestly didn't think I'd do anything with creative nonfiction beyond this week. Thanks to Chloe and my wonderful, encouraging cohort, I have changed my mind and am going to pursue creative nonfiction alongside my other writing endeavors. And of course, Paris is a positively dreamy place to write, walk, eat, drink and get inspired!" -Lauren W.

"Hands down the best workshop feedback I’ve ever received. I felt so lucky to be a part of this workshop and really enjoy the friendships I forged." - Ben H.

"Writing Workshops in Paris was so amazing! Getting to spend all week working on essays and then by evening exploring the city on foot or bicycle?! Iconic! Loved getting to meet fellow writers, work with established literary stars, and the reading on the Seine was the perfect farewell! Highly recommend to anyone who is looking to write and explore Paris!" -Emily V.

"I’ve been to a number of workshops in my writing career, and this one was by far the most inspiring! Not only was it right in the middle of literary Paris, but it attracted a diverse and wonderful group of writers. More than the city, their encouragement  and critiques gave me such confidence in my work. I hope to take them, and Paris, along for many stories and novels to come. -Sage M."

"A week in Paris, in July, is there anything better? Yep, a non-fiction writing workshop with Mike and Blake! I learned, laughed, and drank a lot! My cohort was wonderful; I've made pals with a bunch of talented, supportive writers, and I can't wait to buy all their books and promote them on social media. Chloe Caldwell was fantastic, as expected, and I've come away from Paris with five weeks' worth of content for my Substack, a plan for my book, and the confidence that I'm not actually that bad at this writing lark!" -Becky C.

"Writing Workshops Paris absolutely made my summer! Both the staff and the participants were lovely, and all of the workshops, seminars, and optional activities were well-planned and well-executed.It was the perfect Parisian vacation, but with a slew of great suggestions on how to improve my writing for publication, and the added take away of what I feel will be lifelong friends and professional connections. I cannot overstate how much fun I had, and I'm returning home inspired and eager to apply all of the feedback I received to my work". - Becky R.

"Writing Workshops Paris was the ultimate vehicle for me to realize my dream of finally seeing Paris, while re-igniting my passion for writing and connecting me with such a wonderful new writing community!" -Dhana M.

"For me, as a yet-unpublished writer, it was a great introduction to the world of workshopping. I felt comfortable sharing my stories with this helpful, diverse and dedicated group. And even though I'm daunted by the amount of work I have ahead of me, I'm inspired to start combining my stories into a memoir--something I hadn't considered before." -Sue P.

"Immersion into the artistic Parisian culture with a small community of like-minded aspiring writers was nothing short of inspirational. How wonderful it was to escape the ordinary, explore the extraordinary, and revel in the craft of writing --for the sheer joy of it--in the heart of beautiful Paris." -Estee C.

"This workshop exceeded my expectations. The classroom critiques and instructor one-on-ones were extremely helpful, the people were wonderful, and the atmosphere was inviting. It was an experience I'm so glad I didn't miss." - Carissa C.

"WWP was the first workshop I attended. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on my book-in-progress from both Diana and my new writing community! Merci, merci." -Christina K.

"Writing Workshops Paris was my first professional workshop,and it won't be my last! Aside from the magic of being in Paris, which cannot be understated, the amazing people I met were the best part of the week. I left with unexpected friendships that I will have for life,and a fresh motivation to finish my novel. My approach to my writing has been invigorated and my motivation renewed, and I feel connected to this amazing community of writers in a way I never expected. What an amazing week of inspiration and history, great writing and incredible people. Thank you so much for a life-changing week!" -Kerrin S.

"I just returned from the most incredible writing workshop in Dublin, and I'm still reeling from the experience. Our instructor's guidance and support helped me tap into a creative depth I never knew I had. The writing seminar was more than just a workshop - it was a journey of self-discovery and connection with fellow writers. If you're looking to spark your imagination and take your writing to the next level, look no further. This is a game-changer!" Diana W.

"Chloe, I want to thank you again for such a wonderful workshop. I really appreciated the time and skillset you brought as a facilitator and am very grateful for your feedback on my work, as well as recommended resources.." -Brenna K.

"The Paris workshop was inspirational.  The setting was liberating as a writer, and leadership was always in good humor, organized and helpful.  The feedback has given me a good direction  for my work." -Janice H.

"An unforgettable time at the Paris Writing Workshop. Wonderful facilitators, knowledgable instructors. The information was so helpful to my writing. Plus, there was the unexpected joy of bonding with fellow writers. Blake and Mike did an outstanding job. My only complaint was it was too short!" -Leslie R.

"The workshop gave me invaluable knowledge and insight into the art of writing. And even better that we got to do it is Paris!" -Karl H.

"My grateful heart overflows for Writing Workshops Paris. Everyone I met was so supportive (we still keep in touch!) and willing to share their critiques, encouragements, ideas, and books with me. For a week I could forget how lonely the writing process can be and find community in a beautiful city." -Gabriele H.

"Wonderful opportunity to visit and write in a new place, all while learning from some amazing instructors!" -Uwana I.

"Paris! The perfect place to dive deep into a writing practice, but also learn how to sustain that practice for a nourishing life. Wonderful instructors, sharp and funny cohort members, high-level writing and feedback...and, even more, connections to endure beyond the trip. What more could you ask for?" -Allyson N.

"Blake and Mike are two of the most efficient purveyors of fiction workshops I've had the pleasure of taking part in--as are their instructors. But I guess that is to be expected since like attracts like. Bravo performance." -Helen C.

Program Staff

Blake Kimzey is the Founder & Executive Director of WritingWorkshops.com. His collection of short tales, Families Among Us (Black Lawrence Press), received advanced praise from Roxane Gay, Ramona Ausubel, & Matt Bell. His work has been adapted for broadcast on NPR and published by Tin House, McSweeney's, Short Fiction, Longform, VICE, and over 70 other literary journals. Blake is a graduate of the MFA Program at UC Irvine and received a generous Emerging Writer Grant from the Elizabeth George Foundation. He also co-wrote, with Kyle Minor, a dramatic WWII movie about the war-time actions of Polish underground hero Jan Karski, set for production in 2026. A movie adaptation of his short story “A Family Among Us," originally published by Roxane Gay, is currently in development. Blake has been awarded fellowships from The Community of Writers and the Vermont Studio Center and a generous grant from Americans for the Arts Foundation. He has taught in the Creative Writing Programs at SMU, UT-Dallas and UC-Irvine. 

Operations Director Mike Franz was General Manager and Tour Guide at Fat Tire Bike Tours, Paris, for seven years. His tours were featured on Rick Steves-Paris, The Independent-UK, and the television show 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Mike taught government, economics, and public speaking for ten years at Headwaters High School in Austin, Texas, where he won teacher-of-the-year award after his first year of teaching.

Application & General FAQ


What is the application deadline?

Applications for our September 2026 Portland Workshops are now open and will close on May 1st. Due to volume, early applications are encouraged.

What will my application include? 

  • Brief bio informing us of your involvement in the writing and literary community, as well as any prior or forthcoming publications (500 words max).
  • Purpose statement explaining why you would like to participate in Writing Workshops Portland. You can also discuss current manuscripts or writing projects that you might choose to workshop. (500 words max.)
  • Writing sample excerpt. This does not have to be published work, though that is acceptable, nor does it have to be a piece you plan to workshop. Complete works under the word count are not required; excerpts are acceptable. (writing sample should be no more than 5000 words max.)
  • Early applications are encouraged.

When will I know if I've been accepted to the workshop?

We cap our workshop participation at 10 writers in each genre cohort for the week. Our goal is to provide an intimate, rigorous workshop environment so that participants can come to Portland and find meaningful connections and excellent feedback on their work. Due to the volume of applications and competitive acceptance, writers are encouraged to apply early. We employ a reading committee of professional writers and editors, and applicants will be notified after the application window closes.

How much does it cost?

Tuition is $2,995 USD. If your application is accepted, full tuition is due within 10 days. Upon acceptance, you will have the option to pay your tuition in full or opt for a payment plan by selecting Affirm at checkout.


Can I bring my partner or a guest?

If you would like to bring your partner or a guest along for the trip (and share a room), the cost is $595 for the Portland Workshop. 

What is your refund policy for the workshop in Portland?

Given the intimate nature of our destination workshops and our own, non-refundable deposit schedule as organizers, our refund policy is as follows: 

90+ days before your trip, tuition payment minus a $900 deposit is fully refundable.  

60+ days before your trip: 50% of your tuition is refundable.  

30+ days before your: 25% of your tuition is refundable.  

Less than 30 days before your trip: no refunds can be offered.

What does tuition include? 

  • Lodging in your own room at Hotel Lucia for 5 nights
  • 4-day writing workshops in small groups of no more than 10, led by program faculty
  • Critical feedback on writing submissions
  • Daily craft of writing and/or business of writing seminars 
  • One-on-one conference with faculty
  • Third Wave Coffee Tour and Wine Tasting at The Portland Wine Bar
  • Please Note: meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are not included in the price of tuition.

Manuscript Submissions

Ahead of our arrival in Portland, students will submit manuscripts according to their genre:

Fiction and Nonfiction Writers will submit two separate pieces of up to 5,000 words each (10,000 words total). One manuscript will be critiqued in the group workshop and include letters of critique from your peers and instructor; your second manuscript will be discussed in a one-on-one conference with your instructor in Portland.

Are Payment Plans Available?

Yes. Accepted writers will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.

Are Scholarships Available?

Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to offer scholarships for this workshop. However, we do have payment plans available. 

Instructor Substitution Policy

In the event of an instructor's emergency, sickness, or unavailability, Writing Workshops reserves the right to provide a substitute instructor of equivalent caliber to teach the course. If a substitute is provided, the course will proceed as scheduled, and standard refund policies apply.

Where is the hotel and workshop venue?

Immerse yourself in both comfort and inspiration for 6 days, 5 nights at the Hotel Lucia. The 4-star hotel sits in the heart of literary Portland.

I have a question not answered here.

Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly.



Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions
WritingWorkshops.com 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon (September 2026)
Safe, Respectful & Inclusive Environment
WritingWorkshops.com is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants at the 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon. Inappropriate behavior—whether written, verbal, or physical—is strictly prohibited. Such behavior may include (but is not limited to) abuse, threats, derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures, or actions; any form of harassment, racism, sexism; or any other targeted conduct that violates local, national, or international laws or that causes harm to another participant. This applies to interactions before, during, and after the workshop, whether in-person in Portland, at associated events, through the WritingWorkshops.com website or social media channels, during any online component, or by any other method of communication. WritingWorkshops.com reserves the right to take appropriate action—up to and including revoking admission without refund—against any individual(s) or group(s) that violate this Code of Conduct.
Health & Safety Guidelines
All attendees are expected to follow relevant public health guidelines, including those related to COVID-19 or other pandemic-level communicable illnesses. This may include social distancing, frequent hand washing, and refraining from attending sessions if feeling unwell. Should you observe or experience a violation of these guidelines or any other part of this Code of Conduct, please contact WritingWorkshops.com immediately.
Reporting to WritingWorkshops.com does not replace notifying local law enforcement of suspected legal violations.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 immediately.
For non-emergencies, local law enforcement contact information will be provided in workshop materials.
Photo, Video & Audio Recording Release
By participating in the WritingWorkshops.com 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon, you waive all rights to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with the use, exhibition, streaming, webcasting, televising, or other publication of any photos, videos, or audio recordings taken of you during the workshop. You also waive any right to inspect or approve these materials. By registering, you acknowledge that you have been fully informed of your consent, waiver of liability, and release.
Assumption of Risk & Waiver of Liability
By paying your tuition and attending the 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and assume all risks associated with the workshop, including, but not limited to, injuries, illnesses, damages, theft, or loss of life. WritingWorkshops.com, its organizers, affiliates, and agents ("Organizers") are not responsible for any injuries, death, or damages—physical or emotional—that may occur during or as a result of your participation. You hereby release, waive, and discharge the Organizers from any and all claims, demands, liabilities, or causes of action arising from or relating to your participation. By paying your tuition, you explicitly agree to these terms.
Indemnification
By registering for and participating in the 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon, you agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless WritingWorkshops.com, its organizers, affiliates, officers, employees, and agents from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or relating to your conduct during the workshop, your violation of these Terms and Conditions, or your violation of any rights of another participant or third party.
Property Damage
Participants are responsible for any damage they cause to Hotel Lucia, workshop venues, or any other property associated with the 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon. WritingWorkshops.com reserves the right to seek reimbursement from participants for any costs incurred as a result of such damage.
Intellectual Property & Workshop Submissions
All written work shared by participants during the workshop remains the sole intellectual property of its author. By participating, you agree not to reproduce, distribute, publish, or claim ownership of any work shared by fellow participants in any workshop session, one-on-one conference, or associated activity. WritingWorkshops.com will not reproduce or distribute participant work without the express written consent of the author.
Medical Information & Special Needs
Participants are responsible for disclosing in advance any medical conditions, disabilities, dietary restrictions, or other needs that may require accommodation during the workshop. WritingWorkshops.com will make reasonable efforts to accommodate disclosed needs but is not responsible for providing medical care or treatment. In the event of a medical emergency, participants consent to emergency medical services being contacted on their behalf. Participants are encouraged to carry any necessary medications and to ensure they have adequate travel and health insurance for the duration of the program.
Travel Documentation & Requirements
Attendees are responsible for ensuring they possess the appropriate documentation required for travel to Portland, Oregon. No passport or visa is required for U.S. citizens. International attendees are responsible for ensuring they hold a valid passport and any visa or travel authorization required for entry into the United States. Please verify current U.S. entry requirements with the appropriate embassy or consulate before travel.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Force Majeure / Extraordinary Circumstances
If government authorities prohibit the gathering of groups at the workshop venue during the scheduled September 2026 dates, or if Hotel Lucia closes for those dates and no comparable location in Portland can be secured, WritingWorkshops.com will offer a full refund of the workshop program fees. WritingWorkshops.com will not reimburse any airline tickets, hotel reservations made independently, or other trip-related expenses incurred by participants.
Workshop Proceeding as Scheduled
If the 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon, proceeds on the scheduled dates in September 2026, program fees will be refunded according to the following schedule:
90+ days before the workshop: tuition payment minus a $900 deposit is fully refundable
60+ days before the workshop: 50% of tuition is refundable
30+ days before the workshop: 25% of tuition is refundable
Less than 30 days before the workshop: no refunds can be offered
Regardless of attendance, no refunds will be provided once the workshop has commenced.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction
These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Any and all disputes, claims, or controversies arising out of or relating to these Terms and Conditions, your registration, or your participation in the 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon shall be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts located in the State of Texas. By registering for this workshop, you expressly consent to the personal jurisdiction of the courts of the State of Texas and waive any objection to venue in Texas courts. In the event of any dispute, the parties agree to attempt resolution through good-faith mediation before initiating formal legal proceedings. Each party shall bear its own attorneys' fees and costs unless otherwise ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Agreement to Terms
By registering for and participating in the WritingWorkshops.com 2026 Writing Workshop in Portland, Oregon, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions. Your registration and payment of tuition constitute a binding agreement to uphold this Code of Conduct and all associated policies.
For questions or additional information, please contact WritingWorkshops.com. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to creating a welcoming, inspiring, and productive workshop for everyone.