6 Best Writing Classes in Philadelphia

Weekly writing workshops that facilitate creative exploration in various genres, including literary fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Participants can attend the first session at no cost as a guest. The workshops use the Amherst Writers & Artists method to encourage artistic growth.

In-person single session in Philadelphia, $80, taught by Gina Myers at the Fleisher Art Memorial, 719 Catharine St. Friday 13 November 2026, 6:30-9:30pm. Writing through embroidery and hand sewing, drawing on the textual history of stitched work - genuinely unusual, and a one-evening commitment at the cheapest end of Blue Stoop’s range. Held at Fleisher rather than their usual CultureWorks venue.

In-person course in Philadelphia, $210, at CultureWorks, 1315 Walnut St. Three Thursdays, 5 to 19 November 2026, 6:30-8:30pm. Rooted in the Black radical tradition, working on political poetry as a practice rather than a theme. Three weeks makes it the shortest course commitment Blue Stoop runs this term. Financial aid and Afterpay plans available.

In-person course in Philadelphia, $375, at CultureWorks, 1315 Walnut St. Six Wednesdays, 21 October to 2 December 2026, 6:30-8:30pm, with no class on 25 November. A screenwriting primer built entirely around the scene as the unit of construction. Financial aid and Afterpay plans available.

In-person course in Philadelphia, $520, at CultureWorks, 1315 Walnut St. Nine Tuesdays, 6 October to 1 December 2026, 6:30-8:30pm. Structured around the 50,000-word November challenge, with the weeks either side used to prepare and then salvage what you produced - so it is a supported run at a fast draft rather than a solo sprint. Financial aid and Afterpay plans available.

In-person course in Philadelphia, $375, at CultureWorks, 1315 Walnut St. Six Mondays, 5 October to 9 November 2026, 6:30-8:30pm. Poetry built out of archival material - documents, records, found text - rather than from memory or invention. A distinctive angle you will not find on most city pages. Blue Stoop offers financial aid and scholarships to anyone living in the greater Philadelphia area, and Afterpay payment plans to everyone regardless of income.