About Family Practice
Great Tree offers opportunities for families to pause, breathe, reflect and practice mindfulness. Monthly gatherings include sharing tea together, short meditations, stories, discussions, crafts and informal social hour following the gathering for those who wish to stay. Families are also invited to attend special “fun-raising” events such as Annual Anniversary Waffle Brunch, Poetry & Pie, Buddha’s Enlightenment & Craft’s Sale, Sangha Picnic and other Sangha gatherings. All ages welcome.
Family Meditation
Last Sunday of the Month, 10:30AM
Great Tree offers an opportunity for all ages to experience meditation, study, and community (Sangha) through monthly Family Meditation, Family Work Days, Parent & Child Retreats, Days of Mindfulness and Children’s Retreats.
Monthly Family Meditation meets on the last Sunday of the month (unless otherwise noted in the schedule). Sessions begin with a short meditation and Dharma teaching and discussion, and activities that align with the day's theme, such as interactive storytelling, creative movement, and crafts. After each session, families are invited to stay for “snacky foods” and social time (bring something to share if you’re able).
Children's Days of Mindfulness/ Retreats
2025: June 9 - June 11
Designed for children 7 and older, these retreats offer opportunities to explore spirituality through meditation, discussion, creative activities and the joy of working together.
Themes include compassion, kindness, friendship, generosity, patience and the value of being present in each moment. Participants will have the opportunity to grow spiritually, and develop a sense of community and connection with others.
Family Friendly Events
Buddha's Enlightenment Celebration & Craft Sale
June
Celebrate Buddha’s Enlightenment with us! Join us for a Ceremony commemorating Buddha’s Enlightenment, and the annual opening of the Craft Sale featuring original art and crafts as well as live music. Find gifts and support Great Tree. Bring family and friends.
Anniversary Party
Labor Day Weekend
Join us for Great Tree’s Annual Anniversary Waffle Brunch & Pot Luck! This gathering happens on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend every year from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and includes a short meditation, and chanting followed by brunch. Everyone welcome.
All City Wesak
May
Join fellow practitioners from across the city for a gathering honoring Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, death & nirvana. Meditation & ceremony, including Bathing the Baby Buddha, followed by a potluck. Held at Urban Dharma in West Asheville. Everyone welcome.
Sangha Picnic Gathering
July
Come together with Sangha for food, and & fun in the great outdoors. Bring your favorite vegetarian dish to share. This picnic is an opportunity to connect, and enjoy. Everyone welcome—bring your family and friends!
Segaki
October
Join us for the Segaki Gathering at our Zen Buddhist Temple, a special ceremony to honor and remember the departed. Segaki, also known as the "Feeding the Hungry Ghosts" ceremony, is a time for reflection, offering, and chanting to help ease the suffering of lost souls and bring peace to our ancestors. Participate in this meaningful tradition with our community through meditation, chanting, and offerings. Together, we create a space of compassion and remembrance. Everyone is welcome to attend and contribute to this solemn and heartfelt event.
828.645.2085
679 Lower Flat Creek Alexander, NC 28701