upcoming Workshops & Retreats
Pond Hill writers’ retreat: spring session
Have a script, novel, memoir, story —or even just a great idea and need to take it to the next level?
The Pond Hill Writers' Retreat is a six-day immersive at Hilltown Commons set on 100 historic acres of forests and fields in Rensselaerville, NY, steps from the Huyck Preserve. Work closely with one of three accomplished instructors (Steven Rinehart, Sydney Sidner, or Barbara Jones) in an intimate group of ten. Between sessions: good meals, hiking trails, yoga, and the company of fellow writers who get it.
May 17-22, 2026
Printmaking workshop with amy silberkleit
Create images on plates and pull prints on Amy's portable press. Try monotype, drypoint etching, and collograph in a day-long workshop. All materials provided, and no experience necessary. Walk away with up to ten original prints.
June 7, 2026 | 10am-4pm
mushroom madness
We're teaming up with Catskill Crew to bring you a full Saturday of mushroom everything: a guided foraging walk, hands-on mushroom paper making, a craft beer and cocktail class, BBQ from Lil' Piece, DJ Harlan closing out the night at Stonecrop, and more!
Come for the day or stay for the whole weekend madness.
June 27-28, 2026
Little nights, big weekend
Join Little Nights For three days and nights, you'll be writing, drawing, and exercising all those creative muscles you rarely have the time and space to activate in everyday life. You don't have to be a writer or an artist to join and you don't need a portfolio or a writing sample. All you need is a desire to spend a few days focused on your creative practice, and an interest in doing that work in a small community of others.
September 4-7, 2026
Women and Gestalt Gathering
Join us during the Autumn Equinox for the third Women and Gestalt Gathering. Together, we’ll explore what it means to show up fully as women, as leaders, and as ourselves through a blend of structured and emergent practices rooted in Gestalt work. Across a series of guided and emergent practices, including embodied presence, relational mindfulness, and group dialogue, we’ll deepen our awareness, courage, and capacity to lead with intention.
All who identify as women are welcome.
September 16-20, 2026Workshops in The UPPER Hudson VAlley
Hilltown Commons offers practical, hands-on workshops led by expert instructors in areas that range from traditional crafts to scientific exploration. We believe that lifelong learning is at the heart of human growth. That's why we offer the opportunity to explore new subjects through a mix of individual practice and collaborative group time.
About Our Workshops
WORKSHOP Structure
Led by expert educators and practitioners, each workshop is designed to be interactive and participatory.
Small group sizes ensure personalized guidance and meaningful collaboration.
Sessions balance instruction, hands-on practice, and reflection to deepen learning.
What’s Included
All-inclusive tuition packages cover:
Educational instruction and materials
Lodging in our cozy campus accommodations
Fresh, seasonal meals prepared on-site
Optional add-ons (like private instruction or special excursions) may be available for certain workshops.
Session Length & Schedule
Workshops vary from half-day to multi-day experiences.
Most multi-day sessions run 2–3 days, with immersive activities each morning and afternoon, plus optional evening programming.
Clear schedules and thoughtful pacing help participants fully engage without feeling rushed.
Community & connection
Connect with fellow participants through shared meals, campfires, and group activities.
Build lasting friendships and professional connections in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Leave not just with new skills, but with a deeper sense of connection to your craft, to others, and to the natural world around you.
Sample DAy Schedule
Breakfast at the Pub
7:45 am
Optional Yoga or Guided Hike
8:45 am
Instruction Time
9:45–12:15 pm
Lunch at the Pub
12:45 pm
Deep Learning Time
2 – 4 PM
Activities (Swim, Kayak, Hike, Write, Draw, Tennis, etc.)
4:15 PM
Dinner at the Pub
7 PM
Bonfire & S’mores
8:30 PM
Karaoke (keep on going!) or Wind Down (get your beauty rest!)
10 PM
In 2025, our programs included:
Creative writing (fiction & nonfiction)
Art, drawing, and cyanotype printing
Stone wall building
Mushroom foraging
Stargazing and night sky exploration
These are just a few examples of the hands-on, immersive experiences our participants have enjoyed.
Interested in Hosting a Workshop?
If you'd like to lead a workshop or join us as an instructor, we'd love to hear from you. Contact us at info@hilltowncommons.org
Past workshops
