The Gathering follows a daily rhythm of worship, learning, and community. Each day offers structured programs as well as time to explore, rest, and connect with others.
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Here’s what you have to look forward to in a day at FGC Gathering.
Mornings
Mornings at the Gathering focus on learning, reflection, and community.
Most adults attend a workshop that meets each morning throughout the week. Workshops explore topics such as Quaker spirituality, social justice, creativity, and community life.
At the same time, children and youth participate in age-based programs through the Junior Gathering. High school participants also join workshops and activities designed for teens.
Each morning includes Bible Half-Hour, a long-standing Gathering tradition. In this daily session, a speaker reflects on a passage of scripture and its meaning for spiritual life today. The Bible Half-Hour Facilitator is Jen Newman.
These morning programs give participants time to learn, reflect, and grow together before the afternoon’s optional activities begin.
Afternoons
Afternoons offer communal worship, optional activities, and free time. Some people spend their afternoons supporting others through the Lend-A-Hand program. Afternoons can be a great time to volunteer and give back to the community.
Participants may attend presentations, visit exhibits from Quaker organizations, or join informal conversations and interest groups. Many Friends also use this time to rest, explore the campus, or meet new people.
Evenings
Evenings bring the community together for shared programs.
These may include community worship, speakers, music, or other performances. One evening during the week features an intergenerational program for all ages.
Children and youth also have their own evening programs during most nights of the Gathering.
Join us at the FGC Gathering on July 9th from 7:00–8:45 p.m. for an inspiring plenary session with Bryan Stevenson, renowned civil rights lawyer and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative. Mr. Stevenson, one of the nation’s most compelling voices for justice, equity, and human dignity, will share powerful insights drawn from decades of work challenging mass incarceration and racial injustice. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a transformational leader whose vision is reshaping the national conversation about justice.
Late Night
Late evenings often include informal gatherings such as conversation, music, or social time with friends old and new. Activities for Adult Young Friends can sometimes run late into the night. Quiet time starts at 11:00 PM — see our Gathering Expectations for more info.
Community and Affinity Spaces
Throughout the week, there are also opportunities to connect with others who share identities or experiences.
These may include gatherings for Friends of Color, LGBTQ Friends (FLGBTQC), Nontheist Friends, and Adult Young Friends (ages 18–35). Some groups also organize housing clusters so participants can stay near one another.
Participants interested in these opportunities can learn more during registration or after arriving at the Gathering.
2026 Gathering Theme
All workshops, and many additional events, at the Gathering relate to the Gathering theme. The theme for the 2026 Gathering is “A Window and a Door: A Prayer.” This theme is inspired by a poem by LVM Shelton. The poem talks about willingness, grounded connection, and hospitality to strangers. You can listen to LVM read the poem herself aloud in an archived recording.
The Clerk Team shares:
The poem spoke to us, and we chose its title as our theme, lifting up our sense of the need for prayer in these times. LVM was a friend to each of us, a spiritual presence, a long-time workshop facilitator at the FGC Gathering. LVM was dedicated to the Friends of Color community. LVM passed away in early 2025. We continue to feel LVM’s presence with us as we listen for what Spirit is calling us to in these times.
LVM was a philosopher, mystic, and lover of math. LVM was deeply involved in Quaker circles, and mentored many Friends. LVM passed away in 2025.
QuakerBooks, QMart, and Author Events
The Gathering is an amazing place to purchase Quaker books and to support Quaker authors. Purchases from the Gathering bookstore directly support Friends General Conference. Quaker makers and vendors also participate in QMart, a consignment shop attached to the Gathering Bookstore.
About a dozen Quaker authors usually give book talks during the Gathering, as well. Most are sponsored by QuakerBooks and some are independent presentations.