Holiday Retreat 2026: The Art of Love

A five-day Holiday Retreat at Magnolia Grove Monastery in Batesville, Mississippi, held in the Zen Buddhist Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Titled "The Art of Love," it is a year-end mindfulness retreat for individuals, couples and families who want to step out of the holiday rush and spend the turn of the year in practice. The monastics of Magnolia Grove guide it, and no meditation experience is needed.

The retreat takes its theme from a line of Thich Nhat Hanh's: love is a living practice, an art rooted in presence, listening, understanding and everyday nurture. The monastics frame the days around a simple question: how do we love in a way that brings real warmth to ourselves and to the people we hold dear?

What to Expect

The first day is for arriving. You check in, settle, take part in an opening ceremony and are introduced to the practices of the retreat.

The middle days, days two through four, follow a steady monastic rhythm. Mornings begin with sitting meditation, and walking meditation, mindful meals and dharma talks fill the days. The talks focus on practical ways to bring peace and harmony into the home and into daily relationships. Sharing circles offer a safe, compassionate space to speak and listen from the heart, and there is free time for rest and reflection. Sitting, walking, eating and resting are all done together, as a community.

The fifth day is built around the New Year's midnight ceremony. It includes a time of reflection on the past year, a mindful burning ritual for releasing old burdens, and an intention-setting practice for the year ahead. The retreat closes with a closing ceremony and departure.

Those who wish to deepen their path can receive the transmission of the Five Mindfulness Trainings during this last stretch. It is optional.

The Setting

Magnolia Grove Monastery is a Plum Village practice center in Batesville, Mississippi, in the United States. Accommodation is on site in the monastery, and all meals are provided, so the whole stay happens within the life of the community. The monastics describe the retreat as a chance to offer your family the gift of presence, understanding and love at the close of the year.

Before You Go

This is an all-levels retreat. Beginners are welcome, and the practices remain nourishing for people with years of experience. The retreat is held in English.

Included in the retreat:

- Accommodation at the monastery
- All meals
- Daily guided meditation and mindfulness practice
- Dharma talks and teachings
- Sharing circles
- The New Year's ceremony
- Time with the monastic community

The Five Mindfulness Trainings transmission is offered for those who wish to receive it and is not required of anyone attending.