Alcohol-Free New Year's Eve: Meditation, Buffet and Tara Chanting
About this Event
Looking for a different kind of New Year's Eve? Spend the evening somewhere calm and friendly, with meditation, a talk, a vegetarian buffet and good company. No alcohol, no loud music, no crowds: just a warm atmosphere in which to look back on the year and begin the next one with a clear and happy mind.
Learning to be Happy Whatever Happens
Kadam John McBretney shares practical meditations and ways of thinking that help us keep a happy mind whatever life brings. After the talk, join us for a vegetarian buffet and celebration. Everyone is welcome, whether you are new to meditation or have been coming for years. Bring friends and family; children are welcome too.
Seeing in the New Year with Tara
At 11pm we begin chanting prayers to Tara, so the New Year arrives in a peaceful and meaningful way. Tara is a female Buddha known for her quick help in overcoming fear and obstacles. You can read along or simply listen; no experience is needed.
The chanting continues every four hours for 24 hours, until 7pm on New Year's Day. These sessions are free, with no need to book.
Schedule, Thursday 31 December
- 7pm: Doors open
- 7.30–9pm: Talk and meditation
- 9–11pm: Vegetarian buffet and celebration
- 11pm–12.10am: Tara prayers, seeing in the New Year
About the teacher
Kadam John McBretney has been studying, practising and teaching meditation and modern Buddhism for over 30 years, and was appointed Resident Teacher of Heruka Kadampa Meditation Centre by the renowned Buddhist master Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. He is known for his joyful, down-to-earth style. Whether you are new to meditation or have been practising for years, he makes even the deepest subjects clear and immediately useful.
Getting here
4 minutes' walk from Golders Green station (Northern line). Limited parking is available on our forecourt.
Members of Heruka KMC: please book through our website, meditateinlondon.org, using your member code.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 13.84 to GBP 26.98



















