Whistler Writers Festival: 7 Steps to Crafting Your Perfect Literary Retreat
In biology, a species' ability to adapt boosts its survival odds. As we pass the six-month mark of the pandemic, adaptation has become essential across our daily lives.
Safety protocols—wash hands, wear masks, maintain distance, avoid crowds—keep us protected. But thriving requires connection, intimacy, and idea-sharing within communities. This year, the Whistler Writers Festival (WWF) adapts brilliantly with a virtual edition, delivering inspiration safely.
1. Join Us for a Literary Getaway
Though in-person gatherings aren't possible, visit Whistler for the festival, October 15–18, 2020. Book a readers' or writers' retreat for you and your bubble.
Enjoy vibrant autumn foliage, stroll to Lost Lake with your latest read, and access virtual events, workshops, and panels featuring top Canadian and international authors.
2. It's All About Connection
Connecting readers, authors, and writers remains core. Despite physical distancing, the 2020 theme—listen, write, read, connect—emphasizes vital discourse.
Zoom sessions enable Q&A, insights, and discussions during virtual après. Cozy up fireside with a hot toddy for authors, books, and ideas.
3. Good Reads
Normally featuring an on-site pop-up bookstore, this year find festival books at Armchair Books, Whistler's indie favorite. Most titles are available now; others release pre-festival.
Our WWF Virtual Bookstore curates guest authors' releases with links to buy or pre-order from Canadian indie bookstores—perfect for advance shopping.
4. Make Time for Après
Whistler's après tradition celebrates shared experiences. WWF recreates it virtually post-key events: Opening Night Showcase, Booklovers' Salon with Marina Endicott, Saturday Gala with Wade Davis, and Sunday Brunch.
Grab local craft beer or wine, then chat literature with authors and book lovers online.
5. Elevate Your Craft
For dabblers or pros, workshops abound. The Self-Publishing Buffet covers editing, writer's block, Canadian publishing, and design.
Sharpen instincts in Katherine Fawcett's 'How Did You Think of THAT?' or master dark humor with Amy McDaid's 'Laughing in the Dark.'
6. We're All in This Together
In its 19th year, WWF pivots online with community support. Shop local—pair Friday's Literary Cabaret (authors and Some Assembly Required musicians) with takeout.
Explore Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center tours for Indigenous heritage, or Audain Art Museum's BC art and 'The Extended Moment' photography exhibit.
7. Refresh Your Mind
COVID-19 stresses focus. Nicola Bentley's 'Connecting with Our Inner Observer' workshop offers mindfulness, meditation, and resilience tools for clarity and wellbeing.
This October, adapt, connect, and thrive safely in Whistler's crisp autumn air.
Room rates from $139 include a free $25 dining voucher for 2+ nights. Midweek stays save more in a quieter village. See When Seasons Collide: 12 Quintessential Whistler Experiences for fall ideas.
