Insight Meditation Retreat with Howard Cohn

Practice Vipassana (Insight) Meditation. Non-residential retreat.

2026 Dates and Times
Friday, September 11th: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Please arrive 20-30 minutes early to check-in at the registration table and settle into a spot.
Saturday, September 12th: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 13th: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

About the Teacher
Howard Cohn is a founding teacher of Spirit Rock Meditation Center in the San Francisco Bay area. He has guided a local sitting group in San Francisco, been in private practice as a psychotherapist, and led Vipassana retreats worldwide since 1985. He incorporates influences from various traditions in his teaching, emphasizing reawakening our intrinsic freedom. Among his many teachers and mentors are Jack Kornfield, Joseph Goldstein, U Pandita Sayadaw, Tulku Urgyen Rimpoche, and Tsoknyi Rimpoche.

What to Expect
This silent weekend retreat will include periods of seated meditation, walking or mindful movement, guided meditation instruction, and Dharma talks. There will be opportunities to ask questions and engage in small group discussions. We will observe noble silence—a gentle quiet that supports reflection and mindfulness—outside of scheduled discussions.

You’ll be invited to remove your shoes before entering the meditation hall, which is held as a quiet and contemplative space. There may be a simple altar honoring the Buddhist lineage from which these teachings arise. Some participants may choose to bow as a gesture of respect—this is entirely optional.

Our intention is to create a welcoming environment where each person can engage in practice in the way that best supports their well-being. Whether this is your first retreat or a continuing step on your path, you are welcome here.

Fragrance Free
Choose neutral, unscented products to support those with allergies and chemical sensitivities. Please refrain from wearing perfumes, strong-smelling deodorant, hair product, soaps or lotions.

Dana (Generosity)
The foundation of the practice is offered on the basis of Dana. This 2,600 year old tradition, originating from the wisdom of the Buddha, where teachings are passed from teachers to students in a symbolic relationship of mutual support between student and teacher (Sangha).
Participants will be given the opportunity to contribute financially and in other ways before, during, and after the retreat.
The costs of the hall, teacher, and teachings have been supported by previous participants. While this does not mean that there is no cost to host the retreat, we have approximately $7,000 in expenses. You can help push the wheel of dharma forward by contributing to cover these costs for the next retreat through the practice of Dana at the retreat. Each participant will experience the generosity of those who came before and understand that their generosity will enable future retreats.

Dana for Teachers
According to tradition, teachings are offered freely. Students are invited to practice dana, or generosity, by giving to their teacher what they feel is appropriate and affordable. Your financial support enables teachers such as Howard Cohn to continue sharing their insights and providing guidance to many.

Deposit
There is a $20 non-refundable deposit to reserve your spot. This contribution is intended to support your personal commitment to the retreat and helps Edmonton Insight Meditation cover preparation costs.
EIM is committed to inclusion and aims to ensure our events are accessible to everyone regardless of financial means. If you are unable to afford the deposit, please email [email protected].
Note for check out: EIM is absorbing the Eventbrite Service fee, Service fee tax, and Processing fee.

Beverages
There will be tea, coffee, and water available throughout the day for retreatants with the offering from our previous retreat. To reduce waste, please bring your own sealable reusable mug/thermos and water bottle for the weekend.

Food
You can register for a catered vegan lunch that will be provided on Saturday and Sunday. The cost is $42.00. Please inform us of any gluten or other dietary allergies when you register for the lunches to ensure we can accommodate your needs.

If you have dietary restrictions that cannot be accommodated or you want to bring your own lunch, there is a small kitchen available for storing bagged lunches in the fridge on one of the main floor kitchenettes. Consume food in designated eating areas.Note for check out: EIM is absorbing the Eventbrite Service fee, Service fee tax, and Processing fee (approx. $2.67 per ticket)
If Your Plans Change
If you’re unable to attend, please let us know at least 14 days in advance. This allows us to adjust meals to reduce food waste and offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.
Email [email protected]. Communicating your change of plans is an act of care for the whole community—thank you for helping us create a supportive and responsive retreat environment.

Accommodation
This is a non-residential retreat. You may find suitable Airbnb or hotel stays near the Cloverdale Community League if you are arriving from out of town.

Accessiblity & Transportation
The venue is wheelchair accessible. If you are driving to the retreat, please consider carpooling to avoid straining the limited parking facilities at the hall.

More Details
Registration packages with more details, including what to bring, will be sent out closer to the retreat. For more information, please contact the retreat manager at [email protected].

Info: Arrive 20-30 Minutes before the event start time

Info: Arrive 15 to 30 Minute before the event start time

Info: Lunch Midday. Small group discussions available at various times.

Info: Arrive 15 to 30 Minute before the event start time

Info: Lunch Midday. Small group discussions available at various times.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Riverdale Community League, Riverdale Hall, 9231 100 Avenue Northwest, Edmonton, Canada

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