Congress Program

Group Convergence & Congress Sessions
These are the center of the Congress: times when the full group assembles for facilitated dialogue about the state of the bioregional movement, and the world in general. Using collective sensemaking processes, we will work together to identify what matters most and dedicate our shared time accordingly. These sessions build toward a Bioregional Action Plan: a long-term, coordinated strategy for action that every participant can draw from in their local organizing long after the Congress ends.
 

Talking Circles
Each morning, you'll gather in a small circle of 6–8 people, selected by chance,  to check in, reflect, and integrate what's alive for you. These are confidential spaces where every voice has equal time. Past participants have consistently named Talking Circles as one of the most essential parts of the Congress: a place where real connection forms across bioregions, generations, backgrounds, and life experiences that might otherwise keep us strangers.
 

Bioregional Circles
At several points during the Congress, we'll gather by landscape, giving delegations from the same region time to connect, strategize, and surface what is most urgent in their home places. Bioregional groups will also have the opportunity to present Bioregional Reports to the whole group, offering a living map of what is happening across the continent.
 

Workshops & Presentations
A curated selection of sessions offered by Congress participants covering bioregional finance, law, technology, organizing strategy, land stewardship, and more. These are practical, skills-forward, and drawn from the lived experience of people doing this work on the ground.
 

Open Space & Emergence
Some of the best conversations at any gathering can't be planned in advance. Open Space time (modeled on open space technology and the unconference format) reserves blocks of the schedule for participant-driven content. Anyone can propose and lead a session. Additional space is held for spontaneous conversations that emerge from our group convergences. 
 

Arts & Culture, Embodiment
The Congress is not only a meeting of minds. Morning movement and yoga, drum circles, music nights, cultural sharing, and a participatory arts program will keep us grounded and in our bodies throughout the week. And then there's the legendary All Species Ball,  a costumed celebration of the more-than-human world that has become a beloved tradition of bioregional gatherings. Bring your songs, instruments, stories, costumes, and art. Your full expression is welcome here.
 

Opening and Closing Ceremony & Ritual
We will open and close the Congress with intention,  honoring the land, the original stewards of this place, and the more-than-human world. Throughout the week, practices such as the Work That Reconnects will offer space to move through connection, grief, and renewal together. We will create sacred land art as a collective offering. Bring something from your home landscape to place on our shared altar.
 

Village School
TIBC11 is a gathering for all ages. The Village School is a dedicated children's program running throughout the Congress, facilitated by experienced outdoor educators. While the adults are in circle, kids will be exploring the land, learning from the more-than-human world, and building their own community. Families are warmly welcome. Bringing the next generation into contact with this movement is a critical part of creating a thriving future.
 

Free Time
All of the above is optional, and participants are encouraged to engage at whatever level feels most nourishing. Sit in the cedar groves. Walk the labyrinth. Splash in the pool. Take rest. Time for integration is essential.