Spring Writers' Retreat
Schedule
Fri, 22 May, 2026 at 03:00 pm to Mon, 25 May, 2026 at 12:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Crystal River Inn | San Marcos, TX
About this Event
Step away from the everyday and immerse yourself in a weekend of literary inspiration, craft, and community. The 724 Press Collective Writer’s Retreat is a curated experience for writers at all stages—whether you’re drafting your first manuscript, refining your craft, or building your literary brand.
Across three days in the scenic Texas Hill Country, you’ll:
- Deepen your writing practice with workshops and interactive panels
- Explore the business of publishing and storytelling
- Connect with fellow writers in structured and casual settings
- Gain actionable feedback on your works-in-progress
- Experience Austin’s literary scene, bookstores, and vibrant reading culture
This is a retreat designed for growth, connection, and celebration of storytelling—with time to write, reflect, and be inspired.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
This retreat is perfect for:
- Emerging and mid-career writers
- Authors exploring publishing options
- Writers looking to refine voice, craft, and narrative technique
- Anyone ready to connect with a supportive, creative community
WHY ATTEND
- Hands-on workshops with expert authors and editors
- Personalized feedback on your writing
- Networking with peers and publishing professionals
- A weekend in the scenic Austin Hill Country with curated experiences and literary excursions
DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE
- Texas State University students are eligible for a 20% discount at any ticketed rate. Simply input "TXST" when prompted for the discount code at checkout. Please note: You will be required to show proof of student status. This retreat DOES NOT go toward college cedit hours.
Agenda
🕑: 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Day 1 – Friday | Check-In & Welcome
Info: • Welcome packets, color-coded nametags, refreshments
• Casual mingling and orientation
🕑: 07:00 PM
Welcome Dinner & Opening Toast
Info: • Community dinner
• 724 Collective opening remarks
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Day 2 – Saturday | Craft & Business
Info: Breakfast & Connection
🕑: 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Kickoff: Theme & Goal Setting
Info: • Introductions by writing focus
• The Writer’s Map goal-setting & collaborative prompt session
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Panel: The Writer’s Life
Info: • Writing routines, structure styles, and sustainable practice
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Panel: Publishing & Branding
Info: • Traditional vs. self-publishing
• Crafting your one-sentence brand statement
🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Character & World-Building Workshop
Info: • Interactive prompts and worksheets
🕑: 12:30 PM - 02:00 PM
Independent Writing + Lunch
Info: • Quiet writing hours with on-site lunch
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Afternoon Revival: Scripted Conflict
Info: • Dialogue mini-lesson & energizing group reading
🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Workshop: Pacing & Conflict
🕑: 03:30 PM
Evening – Independent Reflection or Small-Group Dinners Off-Site
Day 3 – Sunday | Literary Tour & Performance
Info: Focus: Inspiration, public voice, and polish
🕑: 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Depart for Austin Literary Tour
Info: • Visits to local bookstores and literary spaces
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch & Open Mic @ Radio East
🕑: 02:00 PM
Return to Lodging
Info: • One-hour break
🕑: 03:15 PM - 05:30 PM
Closing Workshop: The Final Polish
Info: • Intensive work-in-progress revision session
🕑: 05:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Reflection & Sharing Circle
Info: • Closing prompt and resource distribution
🕑: 06:00 PM
Final Independent Dinner
Where is it happening?
Crystal River Inn, 326 West Hopkins Street, San Marcos, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 812.82 to USD 1810.54



















