Tibetan Monks To Create Stunning Sand Mandala In Bucks County

NEWTOWN, PA — The Bucks County Community College invites the public to a free four-day Tibetan Buddhist Monk Residency, Sand Mandala and Craft Show from Monday, Oct. 21 to Thursday, Oct. 24 at the college’s Newtown campus.

Between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the public is invited to watch as refugee Tibetan monks from the Drepung Gomang monastery in India create a stunning sand mandala sculpture in the Solarium room offering the community a unique opportunity to witness a sacred Tibetan Buddhist practice.

In addition to observing the intricate creation of the sand mandala, visitors on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday can browse and purchase traditional Tibetan crafts for sale.

On Thursday, Oct. 24 a closing ceremony and parade will begin at 12 p.m. with a walk from the Solarium to the Neshaminy Creek. The closing ceremony will include the symbolic dismantling of the mandala, followed by a procession to Neshaminy Creek, where the sand will be released into
the water, spreading healing blessings.

Tibetan monks from the Drepung Gomang monastery in India. (Contributed)

“This residency offers a rare and profound experience, connecting the community to the meditative and spiritual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism," said Pete Chiovarou, Director of the Zlock Performing Arts Center "We are excited to share this peaceful and inspiring event with the Bucks campus and surrounding community.”

The event is free and open to the public. The campus is located at 275 Swamp Road, Newtown 18940, where there is ample free parking in Lot S2. For more information, click here.