Canadian Festival 2025
April 25 - 29
Real Inner Freedom
Buddha Vajrasattva Empowerment
with Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
Join us for the 2025 Canadian National Festival taking place April 25th to 29th in Vancouver, BC with Gen-la Kelsang Jampa!
Would you like to heal your mind and create a positive future? Join us to discover the powerful practice of Buddha Vajrasattva, the Buddha of Purification.
Buddha taught that all the difficulties we experience in this life are the result of the negative actions we committed in our previous lives. By purifying our negative karma, we can achieve freedom from the suffering that is constantly arising in our minds.
During the Festival, Gen-la Jampa will grant the empowerment of Buddha Vajrasattva and teach us how to skillfully engage in the practice of meditation and recitation of Vajrasattva. This creative practice allows us to connect with the natural potential in our mind, to heal the wounds of the past, and to free ourselves from our old, painful ways of thinking and acting.
He will also give commentary to the four opponent powers of purification - four states of mind that systematically and completely act as antidotes to all negative thoughts and actions. Through purifying our mind, we gradually experience a wonderful lightness and inner freedom.
Through mantra recitation, guided meditation and visualisation we can remove obstacles to our spiritual development, experience a peaceful, pure mind and create a positive world.
Everybody welcome!
Main Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU) National Spiritual Director of Canada. He is also the Resident Teacher of the Kadampa Meditation Centre LA and the Deputy Spiritual Director of the NKT-IKBU. As a senior NKT Teacher, Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for many years. Under Geshe-la’s guidance, he has taught at many centres and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear, inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.
Meditation Teacher
Gen Kelsang Chodor
Gen Kelsang Chodor is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada. He has been ordained and has studied under the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for more than twenty-three years. He is admired by students for his practical knowledge, warm presentations and authentic teachings, as well as his natural joy and sense of humour. He is skilled at putting everyone at ease and helping them solve their problems and anxieties with practical Dharma advice. During the Festival, Gen Chodor will be leading the meditations.
Retreat Teacher
Gen Kelsang Chögyan
Gen Kelsang Chögyan is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Centre Montreal. She has studied and taught Kadampa Buddhism for more than 25 years. Gen Chögyan is a constant source of encouragement through her sincerity, faith and ability to transform any situation into an opportunity for inner development. Her joy and energy inspire everyone to put Buddha's teachings into practice and experience the concrete effects in their daily lives.
She will guide the retreat at the end of the Festival.
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Friday April 25
7:30-9 p.m.: Introduction - Gen-la Kelsang JampaSaturday April 26
9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.: Meditation - Gen Kelsang Chodor
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Empowerment - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
7-8 p.m.: Wishfulfilling Jewel Prayers with TsogSunday April 27
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.: Meditation - Gen Kelsang Chodor
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
7-8 p.m.: Wishfulfilling Jewel Prayers with TsogMonday April 28
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.: Meditation - Gen Kelsang Chodor
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.: Retreat Session 1 - Gen Kelsang Chogyan
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Retreat Session 2 - Gen Kelsang Chogyan
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.: Retreat Session 3 - Gen Kelsang ChogyanTuesday April 29
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.: Retreat Session 4 - Gen Chogyan
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Retreat Session 5 - Gen Chogyan -
Public Talk: The Healing Power of Meditation
Wednesday, April 23rd, 7:30-9:00pm
Can we heal from pain? Be it physical, heartbreak, anger, loneliness or grief? Is lasting happiness actually possible?
Yes it is possible! We can accomplish this through the practice of meditation. This is because meditation is a special scientific method to abandon negative and painful states of mind such as stress, anxiety and depression, which give rise to endless problems. It is practical training in the internal causes of happiness and freedom from painful emotions. It’s straightforward but very important because the results are so profound.
Join us for this special talk with internationally renowned Buddhist teacher Gen-la Kelsang Jampa and discover for yourself how you can train your mind and finally remain at peace.
Everybody welcome!
Schedule
Doors will open at 6:30pm for light refreshments and seat selection.
Seating is limited so pre-registration is highly recommended!Pricing
$25 Early Bird ticket until April 16th
$35 as of April 16th and at the door -
Adults
• Full festival: April 25 - April 29: $225 / person
• Single day: Friday, April 25 only: $25 / person
• Single day: Saturday, April 26 only: $80 / person
• Single day: Sunday, April 27 only: $60 / person
• Single day: Monday, April 28 only: $55 / person
• Single day: Tuesday, April 29 only: $15 / person
• Meals: $18
Children
• 0-7 years: no charge
• 8-15 years: 50% discount
• 16+ years: full adult price
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The Celebration will take place at the Jewish Community Centre of Vancouver:
950 West 41st Ave.
Vancouver, British Columbia
V5Z 2N7Paid parking is available at the venue.
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There are many hotels and rental properties around Vancouver that are close to the venue either by walking or a short bus, skytrain, taxi or Uber ride away!
The venue is located within a residential neighbourhood called "Oakridge", only a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Vancouver and the airport, as well as KMC Vancouver (which we hope you will visit before or after the Festival!)
Below is a list of hotels and home rentals sites.
If you require some assistance in searching or booking a site, we are happy to help! Please email us at festivals@kadampa.ca1- Hi Vancouver Hostel
1114 Burnaby Street
A crowd pleaser, the newly renovated HI Vancouver Downtown has a little something for everyone. From its quiet spot just off the West End's Davie strip, you can easily walk to the beach, Stanley Park and English Bay. Don't miss out on the delicious free breakfast! For lunch and dinner, explore one of the many restaurants nearby or cook up your own meal in the fully equipped kitchen.https://hihostels.ca/en/destinations/british-columbia/hi-vancouver-downtown
2 - YWCA hotel
Discover a warm welcome at the YWCA Hotel in downtown Vancouver. We offer comfortable, safe, and affordable accommodation options in the heart of Vancouver's vibrant art and entertainment scene. Whether you're travelling with a group, a friend, or on your own, we have a room to suit your needs and budget.
As a social enterprise hotel by YWCA Metro Vancouver, all revenue generated supports YWCA community programs and services for single moms and families. The YWCA Hotel is worth checking into!These 2 hotels below are just a short drive or transit ride away and closest in distance to the venue. There are many other hotels downtown and close to the airport
1- Holiday Inn Vancouver (more central to restaurants and downtown)
- 8 minute drive / Public Transit: 20 minutes - one bus
711 W. Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3Y2
More information here.2- Best Western Plus Vancouver Airport Hotel
- More affordable accommodation- Not as central, though a short bus, taxi or Uber ride away from restaurants and downtown
- 8 minute drive / Public Transit: 20 minutes - one bus
- 1041 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6P 4G2
More information here.To search for other hotels or properties around the venue:
To search for home rentals around the venue:
Options for 300 metres + from the venueSearch around Jewish Community Centre Vancouver:
Link to Vrbo
AirbnbRemember, we are here to help! Please email us at festivals@kadampa.ca and we can help you find the right accomodation for you!
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The closest airport to the venue is Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Public transportation is available from the airport:
Take the SkyTrain Canada Line (Northbound to Waterfront) from the Airport to Oakridge - 41st Avenue.Taxis and Uber can be waiting outside the airport. The venue is about 15 minutes by car and about 25 minutes via public transit.
Please reach out to us at festivals@kadampa.ca if you have any questions.
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A World Peace Cafe will be open during the Festival offering a selection of coffees, teas, cold drinks, sweet and savoury goodies!
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Arrival & Registration
You are required to show your booking confirmation letter (either digital or printed) to gain access to the Festival site. If you are not able to show your confirmation letter, you will be required to show some form of photographic identification (ie. Passport or Driver’s License/ID card) in order to complete your registration onsite.Parking
Paid parking is available at the venue.Security
All participants are required to wear a Festival Pass at all times. Please cooperate fully with this requirement for the safety and smooth running of the Festival. Please bring essential items only and keep your valuables with you at all times. KMC Vancouver does not accept responsibility for any loss or damage to personal items.Photography
Photography, video recording or tape recording are not permitted in the venue during the sessions unless you have obtained special authorization from the Festival organizers. -
A Tharpa Shop featuring books, sadhanas, offerings and other goodies will be open during the in-person Festival.
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The Festival is organized and run by volunteers. There are many opportunities and ways in which you can help, such as preparing food, serving, clearing, cleaning, setting up, helping in the café or bookshop. Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet other Kadampas from across Canada. Your contribution of time and energy is an important part of making the Festival happen and is deeply appreciated. Please consider stopping by the volunteering desk in the registration area to find out how you can help, or contact your local centre for more information.
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The Venue is wheelchair accessible.
Please notify us in advance by email or letter if you have other special needs, such as 'Hard of Hearing'. In particular, if you are a wheelchair user, or require additional seating space, please indicate this on your booking form in the special needs section. This will help us to allocate the correct space for you in the meditation room.
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Children and young adults are welcome to attend the Festival.
There will be a meditation room will be available for children and families with a video link to listen to the event.
For their safety and well-being, some special conditions apply. Please note that two responsible adult carers must be nominated for all children’s bookings if the child is 15 years old and under. Bookings will only be confirmed on receipt of the required photographs of the two adult carers.
Due to the public nature of the Festival, children’s safety and welfare is the responsibility of their nominated responsible adult carers at all times. KMC Vancouver does not assume responsibility for children attending the Festival. Children (of all ages) must be under adult supervision at all times.
Rates for Children
Celebration
• 0-7 years: no charge
• 8-15 years: 50% discount
• 16+ years: full adult priceMeals
• 0-6 years: no charge
• 7-12 years: 50% discount
• 13+ years: full adult priceFestival Passes
To help ensure the safety of your child, and so that they can be easily reunited with their carers in case difficulties arise, passes for children under 16 will display photographs and the names of their two nominated responsible adult carers. Under 16’s bookings can only be confirmed when the required photographs have been received. Because these passes are prepared in advance, you must provide these photos prior to your arrival. -
Registration
Pre-registration is necessary and full payment must be received prior to arrival at the Festival.Booking Confirmation & ID
You will receive an email confirming the details of your booking and payment. Please keep this safe as you will be required to show either a paper or digital copy upon arrival. If you are not able to show your confirmation letter, you will be required to show some form of photographic identification (ie. Passport or Driver’s License/ID card) in order to complete your registration onsite.Bookings cannot be transferred to another person.
Payment & Refund Policies
Festival Fee
• Full payment is required at time of booking.
• Cancellations: 25% of the Festival fee is non-refundable in the case of cancellations up to 48 hours before the start of the Festival. After this, the Festival fee is fully non-refundable.Meals
Meals must be purchased prior to the Festival.
• Full payment is required at time of booking.
• Cancellations: 25% of the meal fee is non-refundable in case of cancellations up to 1 week before the start of the Festival. After this, the meals are fully non-refundable.Any non-refunded fees arising from cancellations are donated to the NKT-IKBU International Temples Project.
Exceptions may be made in cases of sickness or bereavement. Please contact admin@meditateinvancouver.org within 2 weeks of the end of the Festival. This applies to the Festival fee only and does not apply to meals.
Audio Recordings
Audio recordings are of the teaching sessions only and do not include the guided meditations or the empowerment ceremony. They can be purchased during the Festival at the shop.You must have booked and attended a session in order to receive the audio recording of that session. Recordings are for the sole use of the registered recipient and may not be shared.
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The emphasis for this year’s Canadian Festival is on in-person attendance, but it will be possible to participate online if you are not able to attend in-person. There will be no live broadcast of the festival. For those who have booked to participate online, each online session will become available starting May 2nd following the Festival Program listed below.
Festival Options
You will need to choose either the in-person or the online option at the time of booking the Canadian Festival. You will not be able to book for both.
Video Recordings
There will be no live broadcast of the festival. For those who have booked to participate online, each online session will become available one week after the live (in-person) session has taken place.
Session Availability
Each session will become available following the Festival Program listed below, until May 22nd, 23:59 PST, with the exception of the Empowerment Ceremony. The Empowerment Ceremony will be available for 24 hours, from 11:00 a.m. PST on May 3, 2025 to 10:59 a.m. PST on May 4, 2025.
For bookings made before May 2, 2025, registered attendees will receive an email with a link to the ‘Online Festival’ Page by 1:00 p.m. PST on May 2, 2025.
No bookings can be made after Sunday, May 4 at 9 am., with empowerment available until Sunday, May 4 at 10:59 am.
Please book in advance to ensure you can access the online sessions in a timely manner.
French Translation
All festival teachings, meditations and retreat sessions are conducted in English. We provide videos with French translation.
Online Programme
Friday May 2
7:30-9 p.m.: Introduction - Gen-la Kelsang JampaSaturday May 3
9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.: Meditation - Gen Kelsang Chodor
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Empowerment - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
7-8 p.m.: Wishfulfilling Jewel Prayers with TsogSunday May 4
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.: Meditation - Gen Kelsang Chodor
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
7-8 p.m.: Wishfulfilling Jewel Prayers with TsogMonday May 5
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.: Meditation - Gen Kelsang Chodor
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Teaching - Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.: Retreat Session 1 - Gen Kelsang Chogyan
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Retreat Session 2 - Gen Kelsang Chogyan
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.: Retreat Session 3 - Gen Kelsang ChogyanTuesday May 6
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.: Retreat Session 4 - Gen Chogyan
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Retreat Session 5 - Gen Chogyan. -
3-DAY RETREAT on VANCOUVER ISLAND
following the 2025 Canadian National FestivalBethlehem Centre – Nanaimo | April 29-May 2
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Questions & Inquiries
For all questions & inquiries, please contact us by email at: festivals@kadampa.caAddress & Directions
Jewish Community Centre of Vancouver:
950 West 41st Ave.
Vancouver, British Columbia
V5Z 2N7
Click here for directions with Google Maps.
Post-Festival Retreat
How to Experience a Peaceful, Pure Mind and Create a Positive World
April 29-May 2 | with Gen Kelsang Zopa
3-DAY RETREAT on VANCOUVER ISLAND
following the 2025 Canadian National Festival
From April 29 to May 2, join in this post-festival retreat guided by Gen Kelsang Zopa at Nanaimo, Vancouver Island. Experience the purifying and healing practice of the four opponent powers in conjunction with Meditation and Recitation of Buddha Vajrasattva.
