Thanksgiving Family Retreat & Autumn Celebration

Take advantage of substantial price discounts and join us for this special celebration of our Shambhala lineage.

Beginning with an elegant Thanksgiving dinner, this family-oriented program will offer practice opportunities for both new and established practitioners. We will journey to the heart of the warrior traditions of kyudo (Japanese archery) and ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arrangement) with demonstrations and talks by Carol and Alex Halpern. This retreat also includes a presentation by Daniel Hessey on Deep Rooted Prosperity from the Chinese tradition; a musical presentation by the world-renowned Nawang Khechog, a Grammy nominee and one of Tibet’s foremost composers and musicians; group ngöndro practice, yoga, children’s activities, and more!

You will have the opportunity to practice in the Great Stupa, visit the Kami shrine, learn more about the path of the Shambhala warrior, and explore Shambhala’s unique expression of basic goodness within community. There will be time for Shamatha and Werma practice, including discussion groups.

Join us in the powerful setting of Shambhala Mountain to give thanks and celebrate our connection to practice, the phenomenal world, and each other!

If you are unable to come for Thanksgiving dinner, you are welcome to come from Friday through Sunday. You may also join us just for Thanksgiving dinner.

The cost for children ages 3 to 17 is $20 per day. Childcare will be available from 9am – 12:30pm Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Teenagers have the option of attending Shotoku or spending 4 hours per day shadowing a SMC mentor and providing service, with optional meditation instruction available. Everyone on the land under the age of 18 must either attend Shotoku, participate in the mentor program, or be under the direct supervision of their parent(s).

Special discounted rates are in effect this weekend. Priority in assigning housing will be given to participants staying all three nights.

If you are a member click here to go to the member registration page.

If you are NOT a member of a Shambhala center or Shambhala meditation group click here to go to the non-member registration page.

Please register as early as possible to help our cooks plan the meals.

Please arrive by 3pm on Thursday. Program ends with lunch on Sunday. View Detailed Program Information.