Spring Equinox signals new beginnings and the renewal of the earth as plants begin to bloom again and animals come out of hibernation. Marking the end of winter, the equinox indicates the beginning of a new life cycle. Thus, the beginning of spring provides us with an opportunity to seek renewal, set new intentions, and redirect our path. We invite you to greet and celebrate the arrival of spring at Tara Mandala!

Our celebration will begin with a morning teaching at Prayer Flag Ridge by Drubpön Lama Karma, who will give a brief explanation on the meaning and importance of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition of raising prayer flags. This will be followed by a Sang (fire offering ceremony) and the blessing of prayer flags. You will then be invited to hang your prayer flags imbued with your intentions, prayers, and affirmations at the ridge. The morning celebration will be followed by a community vegetarian lunch, and a guided Shamatha meditation practice and Dharma teaching by Drubpön Lama Karma in the afternoon.

For anyone who would prefer not to drive home after the afternoon teachings, there are overnight accommodations available. If you choose to stay overnight, you will be invited to our evening Tsog celebration, a special feast offering ceremony, in the main temple shrine room. Participants are encouraged to bring a favorite finger food for the feast. Prayer Flags will be available for purchase in the Dakini Store from 9:00 – 9:45 am. Or feel free to bring your own.

A 4-wheel or All-wheel drive vehicle is absolutely necessary to access Tara Mandala in winter conditions. For anyone who would prefer not to drive home after the tsog, there are overnight accommodations available.

This event begins with a mandatory check-in between 9:00 am and 9:30 am.

Tentative schedule:

9:00 am – 9:30 am – Check-in

10:00 am – 10:30 am – Hike/Walk to Prayer Flag Ridge

10:30 am – 12:45 pm – Sang and Prayer Flag Raising

1 pm – Lunch & Karma Yoga

3 pm – 5 pm – Afternoon teachings & meditation with Drubpon Lama Karma

5:30 pm – Check-out for day-only guests

6 pm – Tsog Celebration (with our resident Lamas, community, and overnight guests)

A 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle will be necessary to access Tara Mandala if snow or mud conditions are still present.

Prayer Flags will be available for purchase at our onsite Dakini Store.

Please note that in order to attend the morning event at Prayer Flag Ridge, you will need to be able to walk at least 1/4 mile up a medium grade hill after driving about 1/2 mile, where you will need a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle. We ask that you come prepared with warm clothing and good boots for muddy and cold conditions.

Suggested Dana: $25 – $50

There will be an opportunity to place dana in a designated box in the community dining room.