Another Life is Possible

The last day to purchase a ticket will be July 6! Speakers: Join us! Reserve your spot today as space is very limited! We’ll tackle some of the most urgent and thought-provoking questions of today. Together, we’ll explore the far-reaching effects of technology, the promises and dangers of transhumanism, and the search for meaning in a world increasingly defined by machines. Our discussions will challenge how the Machine influences everything from the structure of families and our relationship with the environment to issues of personal freedom and social inequality, all while celebrating moments of creative rebellion. Well-known writers, thinkers, and activists will lead our conversations. Beyond the conversations, there’s so much more to look forward to—hiking, sing-alongs, potluck meals and lively debates over drinks. Our shared meals will be a time for toasts, laughter, and deep, informal chats that bring us closer and open up new perspectives. We encourage families to join—this event is designed to welcome and  inspire all generations. You can learn more about a recent Doomer Optimism Gatherings in Margaretville, NY here and Ligonier, PA here. This will give you some sense of what the weekends are like. Themes: This event will be a bit different from a normal conference as it will take place at the Woodcrest Bruderhof Community. Woodcrest is home to about 300 people, families and singles, living in Christian community of goods. They make a living with a medical equipment business, run a small farm, staff an elementary/middle school, and operate a small clinic for community members and neighbors. The grounds are campus-like, with walking paths, dwellings, and office buildings. The community center with a deck and green, will serve as the nexus of the event. We welcome families to attend the conference, and find that having children around is a living example of the kind of lived community we would like to advocate for. Tickets Include: Early bird (before April 1) pricing: $275 adult/$550 family Regular pricing: $375 adult/$750 family There are discounted scholarship tickets available, just write to [email protected] to inquire Expectations Our events are very casual. The talks are just the starting off point for discussion, but most of the real work is done in the conversations, meals, singing and fellowship. You can expect an open mic night, spirited debates, chasing fireflies, playing with children, dancing, meals together and a great sense of conviviality among guests. Past attendees at Doomer Optimism events report leaving feeling a real sense of community and real relationships formed. We hope this event will be no different! Schedule Friday July 10, 2026 12 – 1:30 pm arrivals, registration, informal lunch 1:45 pm - 4 pm Panels 4 - 4:30 pm: Break 4:30 - 6 pm: Panel/keynote 6:30 pm - onwards: welcome dinner, followed by open mic Saturday July 11, 2025 8 am - 9 am: Light breakfast and coffee 9 am - 10:30 am: Keynote 11 am - 12:30 pm: Panel 1230 pm - 2 pm: Lunch 2 pm - 4 pm: Panel 4 - 4:30: Break 4:30 - 6 pm: Panel/keynote 6 - 7 pm: Happy hour and mini debates 7 pm - onwards: Potluck dinner and campfire Sunday July 12, 2026 10 am: Worship service with Bruderhof community and farewell breakfast. Schedule subject to change, though start and end times are set. Accommodations There are many hotel, AirBnB, and camping options near to the Woodcrest community. Conference courtesy rates for local lodging: Best Western, Kingston NY. Good access from Interstate I-87. 20-minute drive from conference site. Courtesy rate available through this link: Best Western Plus Kingston NY Reservations can also be made by calling the hotel directly 845-338-0400 and ask for the group by name: “Doomer Optimism Conference". Offer available for nights of 7/9/2026 – 7/11/2026. Note: Guests can adjust the dates to the night or nights they need. For guests who would like to arrive on Thursday evening, the rate is $125 Thursday night and then $185/night for Friday and Saturday. The link defaults to the average for all three nights. Guests arriving Friday can use the Edit button to reserve only Friday and Saturday nights. Offer expires 30 days prior to the event, so guests are encouraged to reserve early. Individual reservations can be cancelled up to 24 hours prior to arrival. Best Western SureStay Plus, Highland NY. Good access from Poughkeepsie train station. 20-minute drive from conference site. Courtesy rate available through this link: Best Western SureStay Highland NY Reservations can also be made by calling the hotel directly 845-834-2584 and ask for the group by name: “Doomer Optimism Conference". Camping is available at Gunks Campground, about a 20 minute drive away from the conference. Woodcrest Community is considering offering a shuttle twice daily to the BW SureStay Hotel for guests who arrive by air/rail. However, for maximum flexibility, guests are encouraged to carpool! Refunds If for some reason you can't attend, you can request a refund. Refunds will be issued up until April 30. After that date, we will need to lock in funds to pay for event costs. The last day to purchase a ticket will be July 6!