Zen-a-thon 2026 Open House, CC 5/16

Practice Center
Date / Time
May 16, 2026 / 8:00am - 2:00pm
Event Type
Special Events & Exhibits
Description

We warmly invite you to a special Open House in the spirit of launching our Zen-a-thon 2026 fundraising campaign! Whether you are a longtime practitioner or visiting for the first time, this day is curated to offer a welcoming entry point into the practice of Zen and the life of our temple. Please join us as we explore our historic City Center building, engage with fellow practitioners, and experience the quiet clarity of zazen in a supportive environment.

Schedule for the Day:

Join us for the full morning, or for the portions that best suit your schedule:

  • 8:00 am Arrival & Welcome: Join us in the Welcome Center for tea, light refreshments, and an opportunity to browse our bookstore. Enter through the bookstore door at 300 Page St.
  • 8:30 am Zazen Instruction: A guided introduction to Zazen (meditation) and Zendo forms, specifically designed for those new to the practice.
  • 9:25 am Zazen: A period of formal seated meditation in the Zendo (meditation hall).
  • 10:00 am Dharma Talk: A public teaching offered by a senior practitioner.
  • 11:30 am Reception & Tours: Tea and cookies and a Q&A session with the Dharma teacher.
  • 12:00 pm Community Lunch: A traditional vegetarian meal served in the Dining Room.
  • 1:00 pm Guided tour of the City Center building.

*Note for Experienced Practitioners: Those familiar with temple forms are welcome to join the morning's earlier schedule at 6:30 am for Zazen, Service, and Soji (temple cleaning).

Our Welcome Table will remain open from 8:00 am–1:00 pm. Residents and staff will be available to assist with membership registration, provide information on upcoming programs, and answer questions regarding Zen practice.

Please contact development@sfzc.org with any questions.

Fee Information

Register Online

Or call 415-354-0360.