News
2023–2024 Epistle Posted
Last year's epistle has been posted on the epistles page.
Check back in the fall for information about next year's Gathering.
What is the Gathering?
New Year’s Gathering is an annual Quaker gathering to welcome the new year with worship and community. The Gathering lasts several nights and alternates between being held in Northern California and Southern Oregon.
Western Young Friends was founded in 1975 by young people from Pacific and North Pacific Yearly Meetings. While there is no formal tie to other Quaker bodies, WYF has many participants who are members, attenders, or former children of monthly meetings. The WYF New Year's Gathering is multi-generational, and open to all ages.
All participants share the work of the Gathering, including meal preparation, childcare, etc. WYF conducts enough business to care for each other during the Gathering, create an epistle, and ensure the planning of the next Gathering.
When is the Gathering?
Gathering starts with dinner on the December 29th and ends after breakfast on January 2nd (subject to change; check back closer to next year's gathering).
What Do We Do at the Gathering?
Besides cooking meals, sitting in worship, and conducting business, typical activites include short hikes, board games, singalongs, etc.
We also typically have workshops or interest groups led by participants of the Gathering. Anyone can lead an interest group, so start thinking about ideas. Some examples of previous workshops and interest groups are: harm reduction, environmental concerns, peaceful economics, Quaker process, dance, tarot, nature walks, Tai Chi, sign language, massage, and various aspects of spirituality.
We also have a talent show every year, so if you might like to perform start thinking about ideas!
What Should I Bring?
Come prepared for rain and chilly weather with a warm sleeping bag, boots, warm clothing, raingear, flashlight, pillow, and your favorite cold remedies. Please observe camp policy not to bring or use drugs or alcohol. Bring musical instruments, games, art materials, your heart, and anything else to share. Pre-teen kids are welcome at half price; childcare will be provided, as all who attend the Gathering participate in cooking, clean-up and childcare.
Other Questions
- Where is the Gathering and how can I get there?
- See the travel page.
- How do I register?
- Use our online registration form.
- How much does it cost? How do I pay?
- See our payment page.
- If I have another question, whom should I ask?
- See our contact page.