On the final day of teachings, everyone’s minds are very blessed, very touched and our dedication to wishing to serve others deepens. We deeply, deeply appreciate Gen-la Dekyong’s clear, heartfelt teachings and her pure example as our General Spiritual Director, carrying such a great responsibility perfectly for 16 years with such joy and devotion. May our tradition continue to have many such pure examples in the future.
There is so much to appreciate and enjoy at the International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon. It is set in such a beautiful natural location, and people enjoy walking amongst the trees, with the squirrels, chipmunks and birds. The appearance of the mountains on the horizon change with the time of day, as does the weather — from cold, clear and crisp in the mornings, to hazy in the warm afternoons. From radiant sunsets to luminous moonscapes, the views are impressive and ever changing.
One of the many beautiful things about international Festivals is that everywhere you look you see faith and devotion in action. People make offerings, meditate, read and discuss Dharma between sessions as well as working with joy and enthusiasm to enable the Festival to run.
Dorje Shugden is an enlightened Deity, a Wisdom Dharma Protector. Venerable Geshe-la teaches us that Dorje Shugden is our Kadampa Buddhist Dharma Protector for modern times, and he is the synthesis of our Guru, Je Tsongkhapa; our Yidam or personal Tantric Deity, Heruka; and our Dharma Protector.
International Kadampa Fall Festivals are held at different venues each year; this year we are returning to the International Kadampa Retreat Center near the Grand Canyon in Arizona. For the first time since it opened in 2019 there is a huge international gathering taking place and now, after months of preparations, it is the first day of the Festival.
Preparations are completed, but in this article you can see the work that has been done by international teams of Kadampas to prepare the Festival.
The Tharpa Festival Shop is an essential part of the International Fall Festival 2025 at IKRC Grand Canyon, offering everything you need to support your spiritual practice during the Festival and beyond. It’s an opportunity to purchase all Festival-related Tharpa items— including books, art, and sadhanas—alongside new and updated releases.
A special time when hearts and minds from around the world, both in person at IKRC Grand Canyon and online
The conclusion of the 2025 Summer Festival offers us an opportunity to reflect on this truly inspiring event.
A chance to revisit the engaging videos created during the Summer Festival. Enjoy!
Discover more
The 2026 International Fall Festival offers a wonderful opportunity to be part of something meaningful even before it begins. By arriving early as a volunteer, you can help create this special event alongside people from all around the world, make lasting friendships,…
Read More
