Arcadia
A spiritual retreat for Queer Pagan Men
and our Allies.
March 20-22, 2026
“Queer Hearth: Building Community and Chosen Family”
Participants will co-create an intentional weekend based on the theme of “Queer Hearth: Building Community and Chosen Family”. This theme emphasizes the importance of connection and belonging within the Queer Pagan community. It’s about fostering supportive relationships, creating safe spaces, and celebrating the unique bonds formed between Queer Pagan men.
Everyone attending will fulfill an essential role for the weekend – meal preparation, fire tender, clean-up, etc., and assist others in their roles as needed. While the Arcadia staff will direct and mediate the weekend, it is your participation and contributions to conversation and activities that will provide energy and power to the process. Rather than being “presented at” the entire weekend, guided workshops, activities, and rituals will draw on the knowledge, expertise, and creativity of those present.
This year’s Arcadia retreat is in-person at a campground in Cumberland, VA.
A weekend of Pagan exploration, Queer sensibility, and male bonding in an open, participatory, safe and sacred space.
Weekend Facilitator: Mel Mystery
Mel is an eclectic Hellenistic Druid with a little bit of Norse thrown in. Mel publishes the “Mysterious Ways” cyberzine for Queer Pagan men; hosts the “Discovering the Male Mysteries” podcast for gay and bi Pagan men, and is involved in planning both the Arcadia and the Brotherhood by the Bog Retreats. Mel is author of the book “The Gay Guy’s Guide to Werewolves and Other Man Beasts.” He has a couple of other books in the works. His long-term plan is to found a private campground for alternative communities who often feel marginalized and unsafe in public and mainstream campgrounds.