Book Club Retreat Weekend
A 2-day literary escape where readers gather at a cozy cabin or inn to discuss a selected book, enjoy author-inspired meals, and participate in writing workshops. A phone-free weekend celebrating the joy of reading and meaningful conversation.
Duration
2 Days
Destination
Cabin, Country Inn, or Cozy Retreat Center
Group Size
16 People
Template Statistics
2
Event Duration
10
Locations
80
Activities
Premium
Template
General Tasks
Tasks to complete before or during the event
- Select book 2-3 months in advance and announce to guests
- Book cozy cabin or inn for the weekend
- Send pre-retreat reading guide and reminders
- Design and print discussion question booklets
- Plan author-inspired menu with caterer
- Attempt to arrange author video message or Q&A
- Prepare journaling supplies (notebooks, pens)
- Create literary conversation cards
- Set up book swap station
- Curate small library of recommended reads
- Prepare writing workshop materials and prompts
- Create reading buddy matching system
- Design cozy reading nooks around venue
- Stock hot beverages (tea, coffee, cocoa)
- Arrange comfortable seating for discussions
- Prepare feedback forms
- Create phone collection system (optional)
- Plan next book selection voting
Event Itinerary
Day-by-day schedule and activities
Day 1
5 locations planned
Day Tasks
- Set up welcome table with packets
- Prepare tea and coffee service
- Arrange discussion room with comfortable seating
- Print discussion question booklets
- Coordinate author-inspired menu with caterer
- Set up fireplace lounge with blankets
- Stock small library with recommended reads
Locations
Arrival & Welcome
Retreat Entrance
- Greet readers as they arrive
- Distribute welcome packets with weekend schedule
- Room assignments and settling in
- Optional phone collection (encouraged)
- Provide cozy reading nooks map
Tea & Introductions
Common Room or Library
- Serve tea, coffee, and light refreshments
- Icebreaker: Share your reading journey
- Introduce the selected book and discussion format
- Share weekend goals and expectations
- Distribute discussion question booklets
Book Discussion - Part 1
Discussion Room
- Facilitate discussion of first half of book
- Explore themes, characters, and writing style
- Share favorite passages and quotes
- Connect book themes to personal experiences
- No spoilers for second half!
Author-Inspired Dinner
Dining Room
- Serve dinner inspired by book's setting or era
- Explain menu connections to the story
- Conversation cards with literary prompts
- Wine or beverage pairings
- No phones at table
Evening Reading & Fireside Chat
Fireplace Lounge
- Gather by fireplace with hot drinks
- Optional read-aloud of favorite passages
- Share book recommendations
- Quiet reading time available
- Board games for those who prefer
Day 2
5 locations planned
Day Tasks
- Prepare journaling supplies and prompts
- Set up book swap table
- Coordinate author video message
- Prepare voting ballots for next book
- Print reading buddy contact cards
- Arrange writing workshop materials
Locations
Morning Journaling & Coffee
Various Reading Nooks
- Coffee and tea available
- Optional journaling prompts provided
- Quiet reflection time
- Write letter to your future reading self
- Enjoy the morning at your own pace
Literary Breakfast
Dining Room
- Serve hearty breakfast
- Table conversation about favorite authors
- Share what you journaled about
- Preview day's activities
Book Discussion - Part 2
Discussion Room
- Deep dive into second half and ending
- Discuss plot twists and conclusions
- Rate the book as a group
- Author video message or Q&A (if arranged)
- Vote on next book club selection
Creative Writing Workshop
Workshop Space
- Writing prompts inspired by the book
- Short story or poetry exercise
- Optional sharing with the group
- Tips for starting a writing practice
- Journaling supplies to take home
Farewell Lunch & Book Swap
Dining Room
- Enjoy farewell lunch together
- Book swap - bring one, take one
- Exchange contact info for pen pal reading buddies
- Announce next retreat date
- Return phones and depart
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Common questions about using this template
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