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Retreat Schedule Ideas & Examples

by | Jan 20, 2026 | Retreats

(Includes a Church Retreat Program Sample + Free Template)
 
Planning a retreat can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re coordinating a church  retreat, planning a school trip, organizing a family reunion, or hosting a weekend getaway for your group, having a clear retreat program is essential.
 
This guide provides real examples, a customizable church retreat program sample, and helpful tips to create a smooth experience for everyone involved.

Why You Need a Retreat Schedule

Children At A Youth Retreat At Refreshing Mountain Retreat And Adventure Center In Stevens, Pa

A clear schedule helps your group retreat stay organized, avoid confusion, and get the most out of your time together. It also reduces stress for leaders and communicates plans to participants. Even if things shift, a schedule gives helpful structure to your event.

Creating a retreat schedule can be difficult for some people while being a breeze for others, so the best course of action is to delegate. Find someone who likes details, and then feed them as much information as you can. You will still need to make decisions on how to manage the retreat and help them along the way, but the more information you can give them, the better they will be able to help your event.

How to Create a Great Retreat Schedule

Start with these questions to build a practical plan:
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
  1. What time can we access the site? When must we leave?
  2. When are meals scheduled?
  3. What activities are offered and at what times?
  4. How many sessions or meetings do we need?
  5. How much downtime should be included?
  6. What options are available in the evenings?
  7. Does our plan match the retreat center’s timing and rules?

Tip: If your event includes kids or teens, send parents the schedule ahead of time. It helps them know what to expect.

Sample Retreat Schedule Examples

This example outlines a weekend retreat from Friday to Sunday. Adjust times and activities to suit your group:

Sample Retreat Schedule — Friday (Arrival)

Time Activity
7:00 PM Group Arrival & Check‑In
7:30 PM Meetup — Bring Bible/Notebook
7:40 PM Large Group Gym Game
8:15 PM Session 1 — Name Game
8:30 PM Worship + Message + Small Groups
10:00 PM Campfire & S’mores (weather permitting)
11:15 PM Leader Check‑In Meeting
11:30 PM Cabin Time & Showers
12:45 AM Lights Out (Quiet Hours Begin)

 

Sample Retreat Schedule — Saturday (Activities)

Time Activity
7:30 AM Breakfast
8:15 AM Session 2 — Devotions & Worship
9:00 AM Zipline Adventure Course
11:00 AM Free Time
11:45 AM Lunch
12:30 PM Group Photo & Gaga
1:00 PM Gym Tournament Games
3:00 PM Pedal Carts & Archery
4:00 PM Free Time / Camp Store
5:00 PM Dinner
6:00 PM Session 3 — Team Games + Message
9:00 PM Cookies & Milk Snack
10:00 PM Evening Free Time
11:30 PM Cabin/Showers & Packing
12:45 AM Lights Out (Quiet Hours)
Sample Retreat Schedule — Sunday (Departure)
Time Activity
8:00 AM Cabin Cleanup & Lodging Checkout
9:00 AM Breakfast
9:45 AM Session 4 — Message + Reflection
10:45 AM Final Cleanup
11:15 AM Departure

 

Retreat Planning Best Practices

Field Games At Church Retreat To get the most out of your retreat schedule:

1. Build in Flexibility

Plan time blocks with buffers so sessions don’t run long or feel rushed.

2. Mix Structured + Free Time

Balance programmed sessions with open time to recharge and build community.

3. Use Clear Labels

Name sessions descriptively (e.g., Morning Devotions, Team Challenges, Worship Rally).

4. Communicate Early & Often

Share the schedule with participants in advance and via onsite signage or apps.

Plan Your Next Retreat with Confidence

 Having a schedule is a great tool to help create a seamless event. If you are planning your next retreat, Refreshing Mountain Adventure Center might be the perfect place for you and your group and be sure to use your schedule to it’s fullest potential! Contact us today for information on hosting your event.