Maple & Hemlock: A Weekend Art & Cultural Immersion with Nature as Our Muse
(Formerly Sacred World Interdependence Day aka S.W.I.D.)
Join us this July for a unique, weekend-long experience at Maple & Hemlock—an evocative exploration of our multifaceted connections to 'nature,' interwoven with the creativity of a melting pot of local artists and those from afar. This immersive experience invites you to explore rhythm, connection, and community through art, culture, and the natural world.
Maple & Hemlock is a retreat-style art experience inviting you to tap into the elemental forces of our surroundings. Through natural art creations and meditations on our relationship to the earth, we invite you to listen closely to the land and discover what calls to your creative spirit. Dance to the rhythm of the trees swaying in the distance, taste the earthiness of our locally foraged mushrooms, walk on fire—all guided by creatives utilizing nature for expression.
Experience the harmony of nature and human creativity as we journey through the valley’s tapestry of natural surroundings. Feel the spectrum of colors when you close your eyes in the sun, and let the rhythm of nature guide your steps.
Schedule of Offerings
Friday Evening: Harvest on the Hill — The Foraged Art + Dining Experience
Step into an unforgettable supper club–style evening at the Montague Retreat Center. Hosted in and around our historic barn, this multi-course feast is crafted by Wheelhouse Catering, featuring foraged ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding land. Each course will be introduced by our chef, highlighting a seasonal ingredient and the cultural story it carries—all rooted in land with history dating back to 1793. The immersive dining space, inspired by the sculptural beauty of natural materials, is designed to awaken the senses. Live music by Althea will enrich the evening, weaving sound and story into this nourishing sensory dining experience. More than a meal—it’s a journey for body, mind, and creative spirit.
Saturday Offerings: Chestnut & Bamboo
Lunaris Yoga & Chanting with Ari & Mali:
West African Dance Class with Live Drumming led by Tara Murphy:
Outdoor Fire Circle Experience guided by Jason Cohen
Live Performance by Althea Music
Live Performance by Lady Moon and the Eclipse
Sunday Offering: The Grove
Song Circle with Charlotte Malin:
Cacao Ceremony w/ members of Incus & special guest
Ecstatic Dance with Tree Jay
Fire Walk w/ Karina Heart & Glow Firewalking
More to Come...
Tickets & Offerings
Choose the experience that best suits your flow.
Option #1: Harvest on the Hill (Dining Experience Only) – $145
An immersive supper club-style evening featuring a six-course feast crafted by Wheelhouse Catering, highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and foraged directly from the surrounding land. Friday OnlyOption #2: Full Experience (Harvest on the Hill + Maple & Hemlock Weekend Pass + Fire Walk) – $250
Combine the dining experience with full access to all immersive offerings.Option #3: Maple & Hemlock Pass (Music, Art, Drumming, Fire Walk + Camping; No Dining) – $120 Saturday & Sunday Only
Access to all immersive experiences, including music, art, drumming, and the fire walk ceremony. Camping is included; meals are not.
Option #4: Saturday Day Pass – Includes access to all musical and ceremonial offerings that day - $80
Option #5: Sunday Day Pass – $40 without Fire Walk
Participate in the powerful ritual to connect with your elemental body and step into transformation.
Option #6: Sunday Day Pass – $80 with Fire Walk
Participate in the powerful ritual to connect with your elemental body and step into transformation.
Add-On & Additional Info:
Food - The MRC large grills will be available for you to cook your own meals. Ice will be available for your coolers. Stay tuned for Meal Pass or Food Truck Info.
Room Rentals – Available if you prefer not to camp. Email MontagueRetreat@gmail.com, First come, first serve basis. Two night rentals will be released first. Single nights will become opened if there is availability on 4/7.