“The Joy of Silence” – 2026 Fall Retreat, hosted by Anacortes Mindfulness Commuity

The practice of silence has never been more important than now. Our noisy world and busy minds need silence to be healthy. Silence is our refuge, our healing space, and a gift we offer ourselves and others.

Join us as we explore how silence can support our lives and practices. We’ll see how inner silence wakes us up, and how outer silence transforms us into effective listeners. This retreat offers a direct experience of the joy, peace, and intimacy of silence.

All are welcome to join this 5-night (6-day) silent retreat in the Plum Village Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh at the beautiful Samish Island Campground and Retreat Center.

Participants will also have the opportunity to receive transmission of the Five Mindfulness Trainings. The retreat will be led by Plum Village Dharma Teacher Karla Johnston and longtime Order of Interbeing members Michael Melancon and Jonathan Prescott, who collectively bring over 120 years of spiritual practice experience.  See below for more information and bios on our teachers.

LODGING

• 45 heated “rustic cabins” with built-in bunks  – 2 bathhouses service the rustic cabins.  Most of the cabins are “upgraded” with newer mattresses.
• 16 ADA “E” Cabins (4-plex cabins with shared restrooms).
• 19 recreational vehicle spaces with full hookups
• Many areas are available for tents
• 2 campground-style restrooms & showersYou will need to bring your own sleeping bag or bedding, as well as a pillow and towel(s).  Cabins are not shared at this retreat, you will have your own space.  Please bring a flashlight as the days in October are becoming shorter. 

  For more information about the facilities and to view a map, visit the Samish Island Campground and Retreat website. Our daily gatherings will be in the CFC building.

• EXTRA DETAILS
• ~ If you have a meditation cushion and can bring it, please do so.   We only have a very small number for folks to use.    Chairs are available.
• ~ Transportation:  Refer to the address and map for driving directions.  If flying,  the  Bellair Airporter Shuttle is available from either SeaTac Airport or Bellingham Airport, to Burlington, and from there to downtown Anacortes (bus change required in Burlington.) Let us know if you need a ride from either Burlington or Anacortes, and we will help you arrange carpooling.
• ~ Arrival time: Check-in time is 4 pm, and cabin assignments will be given at that time.  You may arrive anytime after 2:30 pm and are welcome to walk the trails, explore the area, and of course, help us with setting up the Zendo and getting things ready, but the check-ins won’t begin until 4 pm.
  Late arrivals the evening of the 16th are ok, just let us know. For late arrivals the following day – please contact us for information.Please see information on our cancellation/refund policy.
  
  Questions? Email us
  Need to request a scholarship to help cover the registration? Email us

COST: $675, Early Bird Registration until June 30. $700 thereafter. Registration closes October 1, 2026

SOME CITIES CLOSE BY: Everett, Seattle, Bellingham, WA, Anacortes, WA, Mount Vernon, WA

ADDRESS:

11633 Scott Road Bow Washington 98232 United States.