This retreat took place Thursday, December 4, 2025 – Friday, December 5, 2025. View upcoming retreats at Zen Center of New York City/Fire Lotus Temple.

Thursday – Friday · 2 days
04–05
December 2025

Buddha's Enlightenment Vigil (ZCNYC)

Zen

Zensilentzazenchantingday-sit

Silent all-night vigil on Bodhi Day, celebrating Shakyamuni Buddha's enlightenment. Begins with potluck supper at 6:00 PM, followed by zazen and chanting through the night, concluding with morning service at 7:00 AM.

About this retreat

This is a one-night sitting held on Bodhi Day, marking the date Buddha Shakyamuni is said to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The vigil runs continuously from evening into morning — an all-night practice rather than a multi-day retreat.

The schedule is straightforward: potluck supper at 6:00 PM, then chanting and opening remarks, followed by zazen (sitting meditation) maintained through the night until morning service at 7:00 AM. The center has not yet published details about the number of sitting periods, rest breaks, or dokusan availability.

Bring or contribute food for the potluck if you can. The center has not published information about lodging or whether this is residential, commuter, or a drop-in event.

View upcoming retreats

Originally listed on Zen Center of New York City/Fire Lotus Temple's website.

Full details from Zen Center of New York City/Fire Lotus Temple

A silent all-night vigil celebrating Shakyamuni Buddha's enlightenment with zazen practice. The event begins with an informal potluck supper at 6:00 PM, followed by chanting and opening remarks, then continuous sitting through the night until a morning service at 7:00 AM.

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