Writing Workshops & Retreats
Every workshop and retreat begins the same way — with a simple prompt, a pen, and a circle of people ready to explore what stories are waiting to be told.
These gatherings are for anyone who wants to write, whether you’re starting a memoir, finding your creative spark again, or simply curious about the stories you carry. Together, we write to prompts, listen to one another, and share encouragement in a kind and supportive space.
Our writing workshops and retreats take place in atmospheric venues that inspire creativity — from cozy kitchens by the sea and yoga centers under the Spanish sun, to quiet studios on islands off the coast of Maine or Martha’s Vineyard. Each location has its own magic, but the spirit is always the same: community, creativity, and the power of the prompt.
Join in.
If you’d like to hear about upcoming workshops, retreats, and creative gatherings, subscribe at the bottom of the page, or email Lara to chat.
UPCOMING
Workshops, retreats, and gatherings that celebrate creativity, community, and the written word.
Writing to the Celtic Calendar
Spots Available
6
Date(s)
On-line only. September 30th - November 4th, 2026
Description
6-Week Workshops in small groups.
Join Lara O'Brien founder of Howth Writing Workshops and Hooks & Reels (evenings of story and song), author of The Power of the Prompt.
We will write our life stories around the Celtic Calendar, enriching our words and stories through the lens of nature and of the seasonal changes.
We will write, share, and receive/give feedback to support the writing and stories.
You will explore your life stories to start a memoir, crack open and polish one good story, or simply enjoy the writing process. It takes curiosity and courage, but the invitation is to begin a more creative life.
Securing your seat by signing up email Laraobrienbooks@gmail.com
Revolut 0852555258 to confirm your space
Cost
€ 250 /$ 270
Time(s)
7 pm - 9 pm Irish time 2-4pm US east coast.
Friday Morning Howth Writing Workshops
Spots Available
8
Date(s)
October 2nd - In Person
Description
Join a small, supportive group of writers around the table each week in the heart of Howth. Be inspired! Write your life stories for memoir or storytelling/presentaton. Over six weeks, you’ll explore prompts, develop your voice, and build creative confidence in a nurturing, laughter-filled setting overlooking the sea. Supportive, fun, interactive. These workshops are the foundation for Lara's best selling Power of the Prompt. Join us to write, create, share.
Open for bookings now Laraobrienbooks@gmail.com
Revolut 0852555258
Cost
250 Euro - 6 weeks
Time(s)
10 am - 1 pm
Howth Writing Retreat at the Castle
Spots Available
10
Date(s)
Oct 28th - 31st, 2026
Description
Be part of the Howth Samhain Festival and the magic of Hooks & Reels. Spend four mornings immersed in focused writing within a beautiful, historic coastal venue. Afternoons are yours to wander the grounds, pier, explore castle trails, or share stories over coffee with fellow writers.
After four mornings of writing and discoving your life stories connecting to heritage, Samhain, and Celtic culture, enjoy a special Hooks & Reels evening of story and song in Howth Castle with our community and visitors. It is a traditional gathering with stories and themes of Samhain, truely, a celebration of creativity and community to close the retreat. There will be fire breathing and traditional celebration.
Music by local rising star, Martello Insta @iammartello.
Cost
400 Euros or 450 USD
Time(s)
10 am - 1 pm
Writing & Yoga Retreat – Suryalila, Spain
Spots Available
15
Date(s)
March 13 – March 20th, 2027
Description
A week of writing, yoga, and connection in Europe’s number one yoga retreat centre, nestled in the rolling hills of Cádiz. Each day combines gentle yoga and meditation with creative writing workshops led by Lara, designed to help you explore and discover your life story and reconnect with your creative self. Evenings bring nourishing meals, optional flamenco, cacao ceremonies, and the warmth of shared stories. This is truely a unique, warm and welcoming experience.
Now accepting bookings
Cost
Inquire
Time(s)
n/a
Vinalhaven Writing Workshop
Spots Available
10
Date(s)
August 23rd
Description
Join us for a magical writing workshop in the island of Vinalhaven, off the coast of Maine. Drive to Rockport and park, get the 8.45 Ferry, walk to the Tidewater hotel, (5 minute walk)
Facilitated by best selling author Lara O'Brien - The Power of the Prompt. You will join other writers and explore your life stories, writing for storytelling, and give and receive feedback on your work. This will be a wonderful writing workshop the venue is the gathering room of the Tidewater and very dynamic on incoming and outgoing tides, truely a magical island experience. You will hear the literary performance from Moth Winner Jen Kesner.
If you would like to stay the night on Saturday go to website https://www.thetidewatervh.com
15 Main St, Vinalhaven, ME 04863
Phone: (207) 863-4618
Email: Laraobrienbooks@gmail to book your seat.
Cost
$60
Time(s)
10.30 - 1.30pm
Testimonials & Kind Words
“I am one of the many Katherines who attended your Women's writing workshop last Saturday - the one who lost her husband seven months ago - and I wanted to thank you for offering such an excellent workshop.
I found the Irish cultural center workshop more healing and encouraging than many of the therapy sessions I've been to in recent years and weeks, so thanks for providing such a warm and nurturing space.
I especially appreciated your excellent feedback on our writings - you really have a knack for picking out the best in everyone's work, and for encouraging folks to keep writing.” — Katherine Roth
“Lara, the whole process of your writing workshop has been a gift. In addition to finding freedom with words and expressions, developing community with stimulating discussion is always invaluable. Getting a broader perspective of life benefits all of us.
I appreciate how well you listen and analyze our writing. My writing and story are stronger from the workshops, thank you.” — Mark Davis
Lara is an integral part of the Martha’s Vineyard writing community. An enchanting writer herself, she generously devotes her time to supporting island non-profits with innovative writing based-programming. She’s a valued mentor to island students, both in school and out, and runs highly regarded workshops on memoir and personal essay-writing.
I know from my own happy experience as a workshop facilitator that Lara draws a group together and elicits their best work. Her warm, vibrant and joyful personality and her ability to forge immediate connections is a true asset to any group.” — Geraldine Brooks, Pulitzer Prize winner for fiction