In this time of technological advancements that allow us to connect globally we find ourselves asking what does it really mean to be in community? The word (and the idea) may have been co-opted by brands and companies, but when it comes to yoga, the idea of community is circumscribed in the idea of sangha. Sangha carries a weightier definition than a loosely-bound group of people with common ideology. Being in sangha includes practicing in an honorable way, honoring sacred traditions. It is gathering in community that allows us to glimpse the fact that we contain multitudes… That’s what the Sedona Yoga Festival is all about.
SYF is more than a brand community. It’s a convergence of purposeful community leaders who dive into participation and creation so compassion, inspiration, and peace may spread on an unprecedented scale. Nearly 70 percent of our participants are yoga professionals, leaders who share the ethos of yoga into their local community in a wide variety of ways.
“SYF is an incredible opportunity to connect deeply with the greater yogic family,” says SYF2025 participant and presenter Niki Saccareccia, eRYT. “The carefully-curated offerings and concerts represent the multidimensionality and intersectionality of true yoga and supports professionals and students alike. As a professional, I enjoyed the panel discussions and deep dives on important topics as a leader in the field, the option for CEUs and the trauma-informed lens that many of the presenters spoke through. Movement classes are available as are land excursions, a book fair, longer workshops to go deeper into study and concerts at night make this festival a truly well rounded and enriching experience. Highly recommend you come, even if you’re new to yoga!”
SYF Producer Heather Sanders says it’s her calling in life to hold space for true community development and transformation. She believes that by participating in SYF, local leaders may be inspired, renewed, and refreshed to continue the work of spreading the principles of yoga through their individual worlds. She sees our studio partners, presenters, and other partners as the thread that carries SYF through the year and into people’s lives in a real, tangible way. ‘
“While we’re gathering for a meaningful and transformative experience, we’re converging community leaders,” says Heather. “Connecting with those leaders is what carries the thread of SYF, allows for the teachings and learnings of SYF to really take root and be carried through the local communities throughout the year.” It’s how SYF creates the ripple effect to spread the true teachings of yoga for the greater good.
We’re gathering in Sedona to create meaningful relationships and provide an authentic experience of yoga so that you may cultivate a peaceful and resilient foundation within yourself and shine it out in the world. We hope you’ll join us for this transformative gathering by participating in SYF2026 on April 23–26, 2026! Passes on sale now.
Words by Lisette Cheresson
Lead photo by Ty Dobbs
