OVERNIGHT SEASONAL RETREATS
Apr
17
to Nov 5

OVERNIGHT SEASONAL RETREATS

Blue Cliff Monastery offers individuals, families, and small groups a unique opportunity to practice with the community and enjoy the daily schedule of the monastery such as sitting meditation, walking meditation, working meditation, and mindful eating. 

Seasonal Retreats must begin on a Friday, with a minimum 2 night stay. Seasonal Retreats are not available during, immediately before and after a Themed Retreat.

For more information and to register, please visit :

About our retreats | registration

The calendar of currently available dates can be accessed within the registration form. Registration is now open through Nov 5. More dates will open on a rolling basis.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 10, 2026
Sep
10
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 10, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 13, 2026
Sep
13
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 13, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 17, 2026
Sep
17
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 17, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 20, 2026
Sep
20
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 20, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
BIPOC Retreat 2026: Nourishment & Healing
Sep
23
to Sep 27
ThemedRetreat

BIPOC Retreat 2026: Nourishment & Healing

Blue Cliff Monastery BIPOC Retreat: September 23-27, 2026.

This retreat is for those who self-identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color.

Theme: Nourishment & Healing

Join our BIPOC community for a restorative 5-day mindfulness retreat.  We will learn how to recognize and anchor ourselves in the nourishing elements that support us.  We will also practice to embrace and care for our suffering.  Through the art of tending to the present moment, we have a wonderful opportunity to reclaim our freedom from distraction, reconnect with our truth, and chart a healthy direction for our lives. This retreat is open for both new and experienced mindfulness practitioners of color.

Staff Positions
Those interested in applying to serve on the staff, please submit a BIPOC Retreat 2026 Staff Application Staff positions will be filled on a rolling basis. Those who are accepted will receive a separate registration link and voucher code for a 50% reduction in the retreat fees.

Questions? For questions about registration or housing, please email office@bluecliffmonastery.org. For substantive questions about the BIPOC Retreat, please direct those to bcmretreats@gmail.com, and include “BIPOC Retreat” in the subject heading. Thank you so much.

Click here to Register
View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 4, 2026
Oct
4
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 4, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 8, 2026
Oct
8
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 8, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 18, 2026
Oct
18
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 18, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 22, 2026
Oct
22
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 22, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 25, 2026
Oct
25
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, October 25, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
3-month Winter Retreat 2026-2027
Oct
30
to Jan 31

3-month Winter Retreat 2026-2027

  • Google Calendar ICS

We are also offering Seasonal Retreats during this period. Seasonal Retreats are open to new as well as experienced practitioners, who wish to come join us for a shorter stay. For more information about Seasonal Retreats, please visit About Our Retreats.

The Blue Cliff Winter Retreat is an annual retreat whose origins date back to the time of the Buddha. Traditionally, Buddhist monastics in Asia observe these three months during the rainy season in the summer; hence its other name is the Rains Retreat. Monastics remain within the monastery boundaries, without having to travel outside, and devote their time and energy to the practice. This tradition dates back to the Buddha’s time and continues to this day in many Buddhist monastic communities all over the globe.

It is a time for Buddhist monastics to deepen their studies, practice, healing, and transformation. At Blue Cliff Monastery, we also welcome lay practitioners to join us and participate in this focused period of practice alongside the monastics. This creates a joyful, community experience, and a time for collective healing and transformation.

The Winter Retreat is a wonderful way to deepen your personal practice of mindfulness in the context of community. The emphasis is on practicing as a community as we live, practice, study, and serve.

This year, our Winter Retreat will begin on Friday, October 30, 2026 and will end on Sunday, January 31st, 2027.

The full 3-month Winter Retreat is only for practitioners who have attended at least one retreat at a Plum Village practice center prior to the start of the retreat, and who can commit to staying at Blue Cliff for the entire 3 month period.

Alongside the Winter Retreat, we are also open for Seasonal Retreats during this same period. Seasonal Retreats are appropriate for new as well as experienced practitioners who wish to come join us for a shorter stay. For more information about Seasonal Retreats, please visit About Our Retreats.

Please email office@bluecliffmonastery.org with questions.

3-Month Winter Retreat details & Application
View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, November 1, 2026
Nov
1
8:00 AM08:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, November 1, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness.

This Sunday will be the opening of our 3-month Winter Retreat Opening Ceremony. Please check this posting closer to the date for more details.

          Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 6, 2026
Sep
6
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 6, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 3, 2026
Sep
3
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, September 3, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 30, 2026
Aug
30
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 30, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 27, 2026
Aug
27
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 27, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 23, 2026
Aug
23
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 23, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
Vietnamese Language Retreat | Khóa tu tiếng Việt 2026
Aug
7
to Aug 11
ThemedRetreat

Vietnamese Language Retreat | Khóa tu tiếng Việt 2026

Khóa tu tiếng Việt sẽ được tổ chức từ ngày
7-11 tháng 8 năm 2026 (từ Thứ Sáu đến Thứ Ba)

“đã về, đã tới
bây giờ, ở đây”

KHÓA TU TIẾNG VIỆT TẠI TU VIỆN BÍCH NHAM – NEW YORK
Chủ đề: “Bước Tới Thảnh Thơi”

Kính gửi quý Phật tử, thân hữu gần xa và những người yêu mến đời sống tỉnh thức,

Giữa nhịp sống hối hả của thời đại hôm nay, chúng ta thường bị cuốn theo công việc, trách nhiệm và những lo toan không dứt. Những áp lực ấy đôi khi khiến ta xa rời chính mình và đánh mất khả năng tiếp xúc sâu sắc với những điều kiện hạnh phúc đang có mặt trong cuộc sống.

Với mong muốn tạo một không gian để cùng nhau dừng lại, trở về và nuôi dưỡng thân tâm, năm nay Tu viện Bích Nham sẽ tổ chức Khóa tu Tiếng Việt với chủ đề: “Bước Tới Thảnh Thơi”.

Khóa tu là cơ hội để chúng ta trở về với hơi thở và bước chân chánh niệm, học cách sống sâu sắc trong giây phút hiện tại, kết nối lại với thân tâm và nuôi dưỡng những hạt giống bình an, hiểu biết và thương yêu nơi chính mình.

Trong môi trường tu học an lành của tăng thân, mỗi bước chân thảnh thơi, mỗi hơi thở có ý thức đều có thể trở thành một sự thực tập giúp ta buông thư những căng thẳng, ôm ấp và chuyển hóa những khổ đau trong thân tâm, đồng thời tiếp xúc với những mầu nhiệm của sự sống đang có mặt quanh ta.

Trong khóa tu, quý vị sẽ được hướng dẫn thực tập những pháp môn căn bản của truyền thống Làng Mai như:

• Thiền ngồi
• Thiền đi
• Thiền ca
• Thiền ăn trong chánh niệm
• Thiền buông thư
• Thiền lạy
• Nghe pháp thoại
• Pháp đàm
• Lễ Bông Hồng Cài Áo…

Những thực tập này giúp chúng ta nhận diện và chuyển hóa những khó khăn trong lòng, tái lập sự truyền thông với chính mình và người thương, nuôi dưỡng sự hiểu biết, lòng từ bi và hạnh phúc trong đời sống hằng ngày.

Đây là khóa tu dành cho cả gia đình. Chương trình được thiết kế phù hợp cho nhiều lứa tuổi, bao gồm người lớn (Adults), thanh niên (Young Adults), thanh thiếu niên (Teens) và các em nhỏ (Children). Mỗi thành viên trong gia đình đều có cơ hội tiếp xúc với sự thực tập và nhận được những lợi lạc thiết thực từ đời sống chánh niệm.

Khóa tu được tổ chức trên tinh thần tùy hỷ cúng dường (dana). Sự đóng góp của quý vị sẽ giúp Tu viện trang trải chi phí tổ chức và duy trì môi trường tu học cho cộng đồng.

Chúng tôi kính mời mọi người cùng gia đình trở về tham dự khóa tu để có dịp dừng lại, thở cùng nhau, bước cùng nhau và nuôi dưỡng năng lượng bình an, vững chãi và thảnh thơi trong đời sống.

Đã đóng đăng ký|Registration Closed
View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 2, 2026
Aug
2
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, August 2, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, July 30, 2026
Jul
30
9:00 AM09:00

THURSDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, July 30, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a Day of Mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Thursday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am -  Dharma Talk - DVD - Jade Candle Hall
          11:30 am -  Walking Meditation, meet at the brothers’ dining hall
          12:30 pm -  Mindful Lunch practice w/ reading of 5 Contemplations - the brothers’ dining hall
          02:00 pm - Dharma Sharing - Jade Candle Hall

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, July 26, 2026
Jul
26
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, July 26, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
Summer Family Retreat 2026: Peace Within, Peace All Around
Jul
15
to Jul 19

Summer Family Retreat 2026: Peace Within, Peace All Around

We invite you to join Blue Cliff Monastery for our Summer Family Retreat, Wed, July 15 - Sun, July 19, 2026: Peace Within, Peace All Around — Trong Ấm, Ngoài Êm.

The beloved Vietnamese expression reflects the aspiration for warmth and peace inside, and gentleness and harmony in the world around us.  Together we will practice mindfulness through meditation, mindful meals, deep relaxation, sharing circles, singing, time in nature, and joyful being.  

Children, teens, parents, and friends of all ages can enjoy a nourishing week of mindfulness practice, including meditation, deep relaxation, mindful eating, singing, sharing, and time in nature. At times, adults and children will practice together and at other times, we will practice separately. In the embrace of community, we learn to care for ourselves and one another, cultivating the kind of peace that can ripple outward into our families, communities, and the wider world.

It is a precious chance for the whole family to be in a practice setting and learn new ways of being with one another.  Families, single parents, singles, couples, friends and "chosen family"  —  all welcome. 

Please note that our Chidrens' Program begins at 6 years of age.  Children younger than 6 must be with their caregiver at all times.

Staff Positions
Those interested in applying to serve on the staff, please submit a Summer Family Retreat 2026 Staff Application. Staff positions will be filled on a rolling basis. Those who are accepted will receive a separate registration link and voucher code for a 50% or 100% reduction in the retreat fees.

Questions? For questions about registration or housing, please email office@bluecliffmonastery.org. For substantive questions about the Summer Family Retreat, please direct those to bcmretreats@gmail.com, and include in the subject heading “SFR”. Thank you so much.

Registration is closed. The Waitlist is closed.

View Event →
SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, July 12, 2026
Jul
12
9:00 AM09:00

SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, July 12, 2026

Please see our Come for the Day page for details on our days of mindfulness. There is no registration for a day of mindfulness. The planned schedule below is subject to change and occasionally cancellation. Please check this posting closer to the date and on Sunday before coming to the monastery. Any changes will be posted here.

          09:30 am ET -  Live Dharma Talk
          11:00 am ET -  Walking Meditation
12:00 noon ET -
First Sunday of the month-Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Second Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Third Sunday of the month-Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings Recitation
Fourth Sunday of the month-Dharma Sharing
Fifth Sunday of the month-Q&A session
          1:00 pm ET - Mindful Lunch w/ reading of 5 Contemplations

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
Community Working Day July 9, 2026
Jul
9
9:00 AM09:00

Community Working Day July 9, 2026

Dear Friends,

On July 9, there is an opportunity to work alongside the monastics on a community working day. No registration is required. Please arrive by 9:15 am. There will be working meditation in the morning, followed by lunch, rest, working meditation in the afternoon and dinner. We are grateful for your generosity of service.

View Event →
Wake Up Retreat 2026: Youth and Happiness
Jun
24
to Jun 28

Wake Up Retreat 2026: Youth and Happiness

Wake Up is a retreat for young mindfulness practitioners aged 18 - 35(ish) to gather in community and nature, to heal and restore ourselves. It will be held June 24 - 28, 2026. The theme of this year’s retreat is: Youth and Happiness.

Let us reclaim our peace of mind and happiness in the midst of the busy-ness and confusion around us. Join us for a nourishing five days of rest, rejuvenation, and connection as we learn how to take care of our bodies and minds. Together, we'll awaken to our clarity and compassion, and learn how to cultivate our strengths and embrace our challenges with concrete ways of practice and ease.

Inspired by the teachings of Zen Master and peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh. We come together to practice mindfulness in order to take care of ourselves, nourish happiness and contribute to building a healthier and a more compassionate society. Click here for more information on the global WAKE UP community.

The Discourse on Youth and Happiness, translated by Thich Nhat Hanh

Staff Positions
Those interested in applying to serve on the staff, please submit a Wake Up 2026 Staff Applcation. Staff positions will be filled on a rolling basis. Those who are accepted will receive a voucher code for a 25% or 50% reduction in the retreat fees.

Questions? For questions about registration or housing, please email office@bluecliffmonastery.org. For substantive questions about the Wake Up Retreat, please direct those to bcmretreats@gmail.com, and include in the subject heading “Wake Up”. Thank you so much.

Registration is closed
View Event →
VESAK SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, MAY 31, 2026
May
31
9:30 AM09:30

VESAK SUNDAY, DAY OF MINDFULNESS, MAY 31, 2026

This is Vesak Sunday, a celebration of the Buddha’s birthday. Because the Great Togetherness Meditation Hall is under renovation, this year’s Vesak activities will take place either inside Jade Candle Hall and/or just outside Jade Candle Hall under large tents.

9:30 am Dharma Talk (Inside & Outside)
11:00 am  Walking Meditation
​12:00 pm  Bathing the Buddha Ceremony (​Outside)
​ 1:00 pm  Lunch 

Please see our Come for the Day page for more information on our days of mindfulness.

Dana/Donations are one key way to help the monastery sustain itself as a non-profit spiritual practice center. A suggested minimum dana/donation of $20 is always appreciated. There is a donation box at the back of the big meditation hall and in the brothers’ and sisters’ Dining Halls or you may donate online. You may also donate to the Moon Lake Sisters’ Residence construction project by Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo.

View Event →
Vesak Weekend 2026
May
29
to May 31

Vesak Weekend 2026

Let us celebrate together the life of one of the greatest beings on Earth.

Siddhartha, or Buddha Shakyamuni, was an enlightened being whose teachings have helped millions of people touch the peace, love and understanding inherent in each of us.  In celebration and remembrance of the Buddha, we will practice mindfulness together as a sangha and community, seeing that the Buddha is still very much alive, here and now.

 This weekend is offered to our guests on a donation basis. Due to ongoing renovations of the Great Togetherness Meditation Hall, space is extremely limited for overnight stays. Our suggested minimum donation for those staying at the monastery is $60 per person for the weekend. If you can afford more, we welcome you to decide what the value of the retreat is for you and what you can afford. All overnight guests arrive Friday afternoon, May 29, between 2 and 5pm.  

UPDATE: We’ve reached capacity for overnight stays. To join the weekend waitlist, fill out all the registration form and remember to click CHECK-OUT at the end. We will contact you if there are cancellations.

Everyone is welcome to join us for the day on Vesak Sunday, May 31st. There is no need to register for the Sunday only visit.

click here to add yourself to the waitlist


View Event →
Order of Interbeing Retreat 2026
Apr
29
to May 3

Order of Interbeing Retreat 2026

The OI Retreat will be held this year from April 29 through May 3, 2026. The theme for this year is “Returning to the Great Ocean”.

This retreat is for OI members and formally recognized aspirants* only.

*A formally recognized aspirant must have already begun his or her aspirancy process and must have a current OI mentor who is an ordained Dharma teacher.

UPDATE: Registration is closed. Waitlist is closed. On March 27, we reached the total capacity for this retreat, including for camping and commuting. As of April 10, we closed the Waitlist.

The morning of Sunday, May 3rd will be the transmission ceremony for those receiving the 14 Mindfulness Trainings.

Dear Dharma teachers: Completed ordination packets should be sent by March 25, 2026 to: oiapplications@bluecliffmonastery.org.

The Order of Interbeing is a community of monastics and lay people who have committed to living their lives in accord with the Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings. This five-day retreat is a chance for OI members and aspirants, both monastic and lay, to strengthen our practice, deepen our connection as a community, and explore ways to nurture and strengthen our aspiration to live beautifully and mindfully in the spirit of togetherness.

If you wish to learn more about the Order of Interbeing, please visit: https://orderofinterbeing.org/about/our-history/

View Event →