Welcome to Bonfire!
Welcome to Bonfire – real-world spaces where women gather to grow, learn, and spark change together. Whether you’re finding your voice or you’re ready to roar – there’s a seat by our fire with your name on it.
“I feel stuck.
Where can I find
inspiration?”
“Where do I find
joy and purpose?”
I’m asked these questions daily by women who are seeking something more in their personal, professional, or political lives. My answer is always to find your community. And then I realized–I helped women build a national grassroots network of communities. I can help.
We have created Bonfire – local, in-person communities to bring online activism, networks, and community offline. We are building inclusive spaces for women, a place to find your power and potential by fostering personal growth, political engagement and professional advancement. A place for women to gather with members of their neighborhoods, towns, cities. Bonfire was created for women of all ages and backgrounds, but is not exclusive to women.
— SHANNON WATTS
Bonfire is your place if...
You’re Craving Real Connection
Let’s be honest – we’ve all been living a little too much on our screens lately. Remember what it felt like to laugh until your sides hurt with women who just get it? That’s what we’re bringing back. New friendships sparked by shared proximity and shared passions.
You’re Ready for Some Joy
There’s something magical that happens when curious women get together. Ideas spark. Laughter bubbles up. Suddenly you remember what it feels like to be genuinely excited about being together, in person, when learning something new or meeting someone fascinating.
You Know the Power of Community
Community is nourishing for the heart and the soul. It’s showing up for each other, celebrating wins, and having someone to text when you need a pep talk. \It’s sharing new experiences, new friends, a new lens through which to see your local community.
You’re Done Sitting on the Sidelines
Instead of doom-scrolling alone, let’s channel that energy into something powerful. When women gather together we are stronger and can change the world – individually and collectively! Learn from one another, as well as from writers, academics, artists, activists, local experts, traveling speakers, and more.
You Need Inspiration (Or Have Some to Share)
There’s nothing quite like witnessing another woman step into her power – it gives you permission to do the same. In a supportive community everyone takes turns providing encouragement and motivation to live boldly, take your next big leap, and embrace your life now.
Ready to gather with women who are as curious, passionate, and ready for what’s next as you are?
FAQs
Click on “Join a Bonfire” and entire your zip code to see if there is a Bonfire near you. If you find a Bonfire in your local area, join us! Once you join, you will receive an email from the Local Group Leader of your Bonfire welcoming you, and with information on upcoming events.
If there is not a Bonfire near you and you are interested in starting one, click on “Start a Bonfire” and complete the form. We will contact you!
If there is not a Bonfire near you and you are not ready to start one, no problem! Click on “Join the Waitlist” and we will add you to our Bonfire update emails.
Right now, joining a Bonfire is free of charge.
We are launching in late September. If there is not a Bonfire in your community and you are interested in starting one, click on “Join a Bonfire” and then click on “Start a Bonfire” and we will reach out to you!
Think hyper-local and super convenient. Meetings will take place locally – in your area, hopefully not too far from your home. It’s up to leaders. We’re talking about spots in your neighborhood – coffee shops, community centers, maybe someone’s living room. We hope to invite speakers whose conversations lead you out into the community. After the mayor comes to speak, you attend a city council meeting as a group. A speaking engagement by a local naturalist leads to a field trip to a nearby park or wildlife refuge. The director of the food pantry comes to talk and the following week you all volunteer for an afternoon. The opportunities are endless.
Monthly gatherings are our official thing, but we encourage bonus hangouts. (We love when that happens!) Members can organize events at any place or any time. Schedule a regular weekend walk. Visit a museum or gallery, or to an art class. There is no limit as to where or when you can meet up with your Bonfire community.
Not a problem! Come when you can, skip when you can’t, and pitch ideas for the gatherings you really want to see happen.
While our events and speakers focus on women’s experiences and the unique challenges women face, all curious, compassionate souls are welcome. Strong communities are inclusive communities – and we’re all about building the strongest, most supportive spaces possible.