Buddhist monks conclude their peace walk in Washington, millions followed online
Buddhist monks complete a 3,700-kilometer peace walk from Texas to Washington, drawing large crowds and online viewers.
A group of Buddhist monks has successfully concluded their 3,700-kilometer peace walk, which commenced on October 26, 2025, from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas. The journey attracted attention from across the United States, with people traveling great distances to witness the monks in their saffron robes, symbolizing peace and mindfulness. Among the attendees were Mark Duykers and his wife who drove 885 kilometers from Ann Arbor, Michigan, to participate in the event, showcasing the journey's national reach and its profound significance to many individuals seeking tranquility amidst their busy lives.
Throughout the monks' pilgrimage, they were greeted by thousands of supporters who lined the roads, even amid challenging weather conditions. The large turnout necessitated police intervention to organize traffic and ensure safety as enthusiastic followers gathered to observe the monks' quiet procession. The event highlighted not just the popularity of the monks’ message but also the community spirit among those who resonated with the quest for peace. The leader of the group, Ven, expressed hope that the connections made during this walk would inspire continued mindfulness and peaceful living beyond the journey’s end.
This event exemplifies a broader societal desire for peace and collective consciousness during times of uncertainty, and the monks' peaceful mission served as a reminder of the importance of presence and reflection in everyday life. The media coverage and online engagement turned the monks into a phenomenon, illustrating how spiritual and peace-driven activities can draw diverse audiences together across vast distances, fostering unity in a time when many seek comfort and connection.