Summer Sessions at Naramata Centre
Summer Sessions at Naramata Centre are hosted weeks where you do not just attend a program. You step into a welcoming community and a shared way of living that feels like a small village by the lake. Come as you are, solo, with friends, as a couple, or with family. Camp by the creek and fall asleep to flowing water, or settle into a room, cottage, or villa. Days are shaped by music, learning, a gentle spiritual rhythm, and plenty of open time, with children and youth programming woven into the week. At night the stars are really bright, and the sunsets are stunning.
Summer Theme Overview: Living Simple Rhythms
We find ourselves living in a wounded and wounding world where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, confused, or just plain stuck. At the same time, we inhabit this stunningly beautiful world that inspires our gratitude, wonder and love. In the midst of all that life is, summer comes as a gift releasing us from some of our routines and inviting us into gentler rhythms. In the complexity of this time, we hope you’ll join us to discover or recover some simple practices that will help us navigate the currents of life. We offer many different programs this summer to help develop practices of joy, resilience, courage and compassion. From physical wellbeing to spiritual exploration – from deep conversations to joyful creativity, there’s a nourishing place for you at Naramata Centre this summer. Take a look!
What a Summer Session feels like
Each week has its own theme, its own mix of people, and its own texture. Some weeks feel like singing and laughter spilling out of the Commons. Some feel quieter and more reflective. All of them are held by a simple rhythm that makes space for learning, community, and real rest.
One pass, all programming
$275 per adult (18+) per week
$225 per child or youth (ages 5 to 17) per week
The Summer Session Pass is required for all guests age 5 and up during Summer Sessions. The pass includes access to the shared Summer Sessions community, with drop-in offerings throughout the day and evening for both onsite and offsite guests. Depending on the pass selected, it may also include participation in registered morning programming.
Adults choose a Session Pass with or without morning programming, and those who select programming also choose a registered morning program. Children and youth select a Session Pass with or without participation in age-appropriate morning programs.
Each week offers a range of registered programs—often including music, arts, movement, and guided reflection - alongside time for the lake, the labyrinth, and community life. The days hold a simple rhythm that supports rest, reconnection, and coming home to oneself.
Children and Youth
Children and teens are part of the community here. Mornings begin with all ages singing, then registered children and youth programs with caring leaders. Afternoons and evenings include beach time, family rhythms, and all ages gatherings.
Child and Youth Programs for ages 5 to 17. Optional childminding for ages 2 to 4.
Optional add on at $175 per child per week
Parents or guardians must be participating in morning registered programming
How the week works
- Morning registered programs are optional, with multiple choices each week
- Drop in Community Offerings happen throughout the day and evening
- All ages gatherings, music, circles, and pop up experiences shift week to week
- A small number of guest led Community Offerings are welcomed each week so the pace stays spacious and supported
Meals and daily life
Food is self catered, so everyone brings and prepares their own meals, whether that is over a camp stove, in a kitchen in your accommodations, or in shared kitchen spaces including outdoor shared kitchens.
Spiritual life and belonging
Each week is supported by a Spiritual Lead and a Music Resource, who help shape the week through story, song, reflection, and optional gatherings. Rooted in an expansive expression of the Christian story, we invite people of all ages, identities and beliefs, to experience an open-hearted spiritual community of learning, practice and celebration, to cultivate a kinship with all life and make a positive difference in the world. Alongside morning programs and unhurried afternoons, these shared touchpoints help give the week its rhythm and tone.
Heartwood Bursary support is available to help reduce Summer Session fees, because we want this experience to be as barrier free as possible. You can add bursary support during checkout when you register. No application, no explanation required. This is about dignity and access. If you are able, please consider donating to the Heartwood Bursary fund to help others take part.