Buddhafest: Film festival, talks, and meditation in DC this weekend.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011 - Omkara World by Adam Helfer

WASHINGTON — June 14, 2011 — BuddhaFest is a 4 day (this Thursday to Sunday June 16-19) film festival, lecture and meditation event that will be held at Artisphere: A performing arts center near the Key Bridge in the Rosslyn section of Arlington, Virginia.

Buddhafest

BuddhaFest is designed to be a thought provoking, inspiring 4-day festival of films, talks and meditation for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike (beginners and general public are welcome and encouraged!).

The films present a wide-angle view of Buddhism in contemporary life, while the talks and meditations provide the opportunity for sharing personal stories and to discuss everyday situations that everyone encounters. The entire event will present a practical look at the potentially profound ways in which meditation and the practice of cultivating mindfulness and compassion can transform lives.

Opening night, Thursday June 16th will be commenced by an international group of Theravada Buddhist monks gathering from Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and India to perform a special opening ceremony. Event highlights will include a world-premiere film, an Academy Award-nominated documentary, and talks by local and international personalities such as Tara Brach, and Sharon Salzberg.

continued here:

http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/omkara/2011/jun/14/buddhafest-film-festival-talks-and-meditation-dc-w/

A Thai monk friend from a temple in Tucson Arizona is there this week end for this event. Also it's the Birthday of the abbot of Wat Thai DC.