RETREAT ARCHIVE · 2017
The 2017
Retreat Programme.
Published 18 September 2017 · Winter, Summer and Fall island gatherings.
From the archive. This announcement describes a past event. Its dates, prices, arrangements and policies are historical. For current bookings, use the upcoming Retreat information.
Three island weekends
In its seventh year, the Retreat Programme invited people to learn, connect, get inspired and enjoy Bermuda’s islands. The Fall dates were revised to 20–22 October on Paget Island.
| Retreat | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Port’s Island | 17–19 February 2017 |
| Summer | Darrell’s Island | 11–13 August 2017 |
| Fall | Paget Island | 20–22 October 2017 |
The 2017 experience
The programme welcomed people who wanted to tell stories, dance, play dominoes, swim, paint, make music or share ideas about life. Drawing, poetry, creative writing, yoga and workshops sat alongside time to reflect and unwind.
Participant-led breakout sessions lasted 1.5–2 hours, with three scheduled blocks and up to nine workshop options. Activities included hair braiding, bocce, fishing with participants’ own equipment and fireside sharing of stories, poems, songs and new skills.
Historical prices and deadline
Fall registration closed on 13 October 2017, with early-bird prices available before 10 October.
| Category | Early-bird price | Late signup |
|---|---|---|
| General | $250 | $275 |
| Member | $175 | $200 |
| Youth, ages 12–18 | $125 | $150 |
| Parent and child | $300 | $325 |
| Additional child under 12 | $50 | $50 |
The package included boat travel, indoor accommodation, six meals, snacks, art supplies, workshops and materials for the Retreat fireside. Participants could bring a tent or use shared dorm-style bunks.
Preparing for the 2017 Retreat
The announcement asked participants to bring bedding, clothing and sleepwear, suitable shoes, swimwear, towels, toiletries, reusable dining items, a water bottle, flashlight, chair and camera. Optional items included a tent, snacks, craft tools, something to share, sunscreen, hand sanitiser, insect repellent and non-electronic games.
Pets, portable game systems, illicit substances and anything participants could not carry themselves were excluded. Boat departure and return details were to be confirmed by email. Cash, credit cards and cheques payable to The Chewstick Foundation were accepted.
Youth participation at the time
The 2017 announcement described participation for young people aged 6–18, with parental consent and an adult chaperone for those under 18. It also described childcare for the youngest participants and the possibility of asking a mature attendee to chaperone when arranged in advance. These were the arrangements in that announcement; current participants under 18 must attend with a parent or guardian.
Programme resources