Shabbat Retreat
The New York Ride is an example of the kind of Jewish community many of us want to live in. The Hazon community is inclusive of participants of all ages (our retreats typically span 6 decades and 3 generations), religious backgrounds (a wide range of Jewish observance, including those who are not Jewish). This inclusion is conscious and intentional and emphasizes the values of tzedakah (justice), physical challenge and connection to our beautiful and fragile planet.
Hazon continues to be my address for connecting with like-minded Jews who are concerned for the health of the planet and the health of their bodies. It is great to be part of such an energetic and positive community.Nathan, 40s
Weekend at a Glance
The weekend experience begins with a Shabbat Retreat, where this diverse community comes together to learn, eat, pray, and relax.
| Friday Afternoon: | Arrive at Isabella Freedman (after 1 pm), in Falls Village, CT |
| Friday Evening: | Orientation, Kabbalat Shabbat, dinner, evening activities |
| Saturday Morning: | Breakfast, activities and/or Shabbat services |
| Saturday Afternoon: | Lunch, swimming, farm tours, and panel discussions |
| Saturday Evening: | Dinner, Havdallah, ride prep |
| Sunday: | Day 1 of riding (back to Isabella Freedman), dinner, evening activities |
| Monday: | Day 2 of riding (to Manhattan), closing ceremony |
The Hazon Shabbat Retreat takes place at beautiful Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center. In this stunning setting participants celebrate, eat, relax, and learn together in a welcoming, inclusive and open Jewish community.
Friday
The retreat begins on Friday afternoon with settling into your comfortable cabins nestled in a forest alongside a beautiful lake. We gather together to meet new and old friends in the community spirit of the weekend. After candle lighting and blessings we enjoy a 
delicious, kosher Shabbat meal made from mostly local and organic foods.
Friday night join one of the many Shabbat services organized and run by participants or opt for the social cocktail hour. Service options may include: egalitarian, family-focused, meditative, traditional, and more. If group activities are not for you, you can visit the goats or stroll along the lake, or just sit with new friends.
It is fantastic to spend Shabbat with an inclusive community from all branches of Judaism and all walks of life, where everyone can bond in a quiet setting away from modern distractionsSusan, 60s
Saturday
On Saturday, we offer a wide range of options, including yoga, meditation, swimming, and nature walks as well as a choice of different prayer services. Throughout the day there are sessions on Jewish text, sustainable living, the inspiring work of Hazon and its partners and how you can be involved. Shabbat ends with a moving Havdallah ceremony followed by preparations for the next day’s Ride.
Partners and families who are not participating in the Ride are welcome to join us as Shabbat Only participants.
View the Shabbat Schedule for the 2011 Retreat.
Sunday
Sunday morning the riders depart and the crew leaves to support them on the road. Shabbat-only participants are welcome to stay at Freedman, although no activities are planned until later in the day. Families with young children are welcome to stay at camp to wait the arrival of the riders after their day of cycling. We also are offering a one-day option for those who can only come for Shabbat and cycling on Sunday.
