Organized several times throughout the year, each Renaissance Weekend consists of seminars, discussions, informal lectures and performances. Substantive conversations and program contributions by all participants are fostered by a casual, welcoming culture. Civility, non-partisanship, non-commercialism and public-spirited impact are the gatherings’ hallmarks.
Renaissance Weekend was founded, and continues to be hosted, by Linda and Philip Lader as a forum. The largest gathering is still held around New Year's with the smaller weekends throughout the year. More than 155 Renaissance Weekends have taken place[citation needed].
Attendees design their own schedules from the available activities, talks, and sessions in the event program. The program features a range of topics connected to civic, industry, political and arts interests. Additional activities are available for youths in attendance.
People from a range of professional backgrounds and interests attend the events. Invitees are nominated by past participants. The criteria for invitation are professional innovation and/or distinction, potential contribution to the program's breadth and depth, and likely commitment to Renaissance's off-the-record, civility, non-partisan and non-commercial spirit and traditions.
The gatherings are organized by a non-profit institute. To preserve its independence no corporate sponsorships are sought. Attendees cover the cost of participation.
Specific Renaissance Weekends’ attendance are not disclosed publicly; the gatherings discourage personal screen device usage; and the Renaissance Institute does not seek publicity. Commercial or overtly promotional activity is not permitted at the Weekends.
