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Practical education workshops

At Hilltown Commons, we offer practical, hands-on workshops led by expert instructors across a wide range of fields—from traditional crafts and wilderness skills to creative arts and scientific exploration. We believe that curiosity and lifelong learning are at the heart of human growth, and we create opportunities for participants to explore subjects they might not have encountered otherwise, experiment with new techniques, and learn through a thoughtful mix of individual practice and collaborative group time in a supportive and engaging environment.

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.

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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

upcoming programs

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Ayurveda Cleanse & Retreat

A long weekend of renewal: daily yoga, breathwork, meditation, nourishing Ayurvedic meals, wisdom sessions, and time in nature. Release toxins, restore balance, and reconnect with your body’s natural ability to heal

November 6-9, 2025
Learn more
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Alex auder’s writing Retreat

Join Alex Auder for a four-day winter creative retreat at Hilltown Commons — equal parts yoga, writing, laughing, and existential thawing. Expect mindful movement in the mornings, cozy meals in the pub, long afternoons to work (or not), and spirited evening salons that might end in parlor games.

January 15-20, 2026
Apply here

Past workshops

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 or joining us as an instructor? We’d love to hear from you—reach out below to explore opportunities to share your expertise and curiosity.

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What people Are Saying

"My experience exceeded expectations by an incalculable amount. Hilltown Commons is a place of mysterious majesty run by a dedicated staff who care deeply about embracing the surrounding community. I immediately felt accepted into a circle of caring friends. "

— Erika C.

“Loved the staff! So Warm! Can’t fake it!” 

— Summer 2025 Guest

"It has been over 40 years since i have had that much fun learning, reading, and writing. My brain is in overdrive but my heart is full from the Pond Hill Writers' Retreat at Hilltown Commons! What a gift! From faculty, to fellow students, the superb setting, and Melissa's delicious meals, it was perfect!"

— Bernadette G.

● Contact

Request more Information or Become an instructor!

Curious which program might be the right fit? Thinking of hosting a workshop with us? Or maybe you’d like to stroll the grounds and see the magic in person. Whatever you’re looking for, we’re here to help.