JUL 25 - AUG 9, 2025
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International Summer Festival 2025 diaries
It is the free day at the Festival, the midpoint between week 1 and 2. Those staying the whole period use the free day to rest a little, to absorb the teachings from week 1 and to reset ready for week 2. It is also a chance to get practical things done: to do laundry, get some shopping in town or communicate with loved ones back home.
Day 8 ~ REST, REFLECT & RESET & NEW ARRIVALS
Many people venture out into the beautiful lakeland area, going for hikes in stunning scenery, enjoying boat trips and spending time with friends. For those choosing to have a quiet day at Manjushri KMC there are peaceful walks in the woods or along the shore, and the chance to meditate and contemplate. Some people take the opportunity to memorize the verses from Atisha's Advice and you can come across people reciting them during the day!
new arrivals for week 2
Meanwhile, all over the Festival site, dedicated Kadampas make preparations for new arrivals for week 2 and a new shrine is created ready for the Tara empowerment in the Temple.
New people arrive throughout the day. There are warm greetings between old friends and fresh faces filled with awe at the scale of the Festival, just so happy to have arrived for their spiritual holiday. There is anticipation in the air: people looking forward to receiving the empowerment tomorrow from Gen-la Dekyong and receiving her further teachings and guidance on how to be a Kadampa.
Enjoying this beautiful area
