Participants Archives - 2027 World Scout Jamboree

Aaron on Scouting: “Register now to join the USA contingent at the 2027 World Scout Jamboree in Poland”

by Tridung Vo | Nov 19, 2025 | Announcement, IST, Participants

[Aaron Derr/Aaron on Scouting]

Gdańsk, here we come.

Registration is open now for the 26th World Scout Jamboree, set for July 30 to August 8, 2027, in the historic city of Gdańsk, Poland. This massive global party brings together tens of thousands of Scouts from more than 170 countries, all uniting for 10 days of fun.

The official theme of the 2027 event is “Bravely,” which is all about inspiring young people to step up, take action and drive positive global change.

The USA Contingent is your ticket to this international campout. The contingent is made up of three groups: youth participants, the dedicated adult unit leaders and the essential International Service Team (IST).

“You can be camping right next to kids from countries all over the world,” says Bill McKinney, the head of the USA Contingent. “And they’re Scouts, so you know they’re going to be super friendly. Everybody wants to talk. Everyone wants to help each other.”

Who can attend the 2027 World Scout Jamboree?

Youth participants must be between the ages of 14 and 17 during the event.

There are two ways adults ages 18 and older can attend and help make this event unforgettable:

International Service Team: Think of the IST as the heroes behind the scenes. If you’re 18 or older, you’re the staff that makes the entire Jamboree run smoothly, from logistics to program areas. The registration portal currently directs all adult registrants to sign up as IST members first.
Unit Leaders: If your main goal is to lead one of our USA units, those selections are slated to begin in the second quarter of 2026. If this is your only plan, be sure to join the contingent’s mailing list for all the updates regarding the application process.

The Jamboree is so much more than just a typical campout. It’s an opportunity to make friends for life, explore new cultures firsthand and discover what it truly means to be a global citizen.

“A lot of kids have said their favorite activity was cultural day,” says McKinney, “where you go around and you sample different foods, you meet people wearing clothing from their home countries and you really get to see what each country’s culture is like.”

Scouts from different countries celebrate together after arriving at the 2019 World Scout Jamboree. Photograph by Chuck Eaton

What is a World Scout Jamboree?

Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the worldwide Scouting movement, always envisioned a movement that transcended national boundaries. Following the rapid global expansion of Scouting after 1907, he identified the need for a major international congress.

Despite the interruption of the World War I, the inaugural World Scout Jamboree, initially called the Imperial and International Jamboree, was held in London, England, in the summer of 1920. This first event, however, bore little resemblance to modern, expansive camps, as it was held indoors at the Olympia exhibition hall.

To accommodate 8,000 Scouts from 34 nations, a layer of earth and turf had to be installed on the concrete floor to facilitate tent pitching. The event functioned primarily as a large-scale exhibition and demonstration of Scouting skills and handicrafts, complete with guests such as a baby elephant and a lion cub, reflecting a combination of exhibition and communal activity.

The most significant moment occurred at the closing ceremony when Baden-Powell was proclaimed the Chief Scout of the World by the assembled youth. The honor validated the event’s purpose: establishing a unified, global brotherhood.

Putting the “out” in World Scout Jamboree

The event’s organizers realized quickly, however, something that we all now know: Scouting thrives outdoors. The second Jamboree in Denmark in 1924 successfully transitioned to a traditional camp setting. Subsequent gatherings, such as the 1929 “Coming of Age” Jamboree in Birkenhead, which hosted 50,000 Scouts, and the post-World War II gathering in France (1947), continually reinforced the movement’s dedication to international peace and goodwill.

Today, the World Scout Jamboree continues to evolve, focusing on themes such as sustainability, innovation and global citizenship. At the same time, the core mission remains anchored in Baden-Powell’s final call from 1920: to foster a worldwide spirit of comradeship that develops peace and happiness among all people.

“Part of the value is just being made aware and gaining a greater appreciation of the larger world Scouting community,” says McKinney. “Even the quietest, shyest person gets pulled out of their shell because everyone’s involved, everyone’s active and everyone’s engaged in conversation every day.”

Click here to learn how to join the USA Contingent for the 2027 World Scout Jamboree.

See original post: https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2025/11/17/register-now-to-join-the-usa-contingent-at-the-2027-world-scout-jamboree-in-poland/

Facts about Gdańsk

by Tridung Vo | Sep 20, 2025 | Participants

Gdańsk, a city nestled on the Baltic coast of northern Poland, is a place where history, culture, and maritime tradition blend seamlessly. Known as the “Pearl of the Baltic,” Gdańsk is a city of stunning architecture, rich heritage, and a vibrant atmosphere that continues to draw visitors from around the world.

A City Steeped in History

Gdańsk’s history is as rich and diverse as its landscape. The city’s roots date back over a thousand years, and throughout its history, it has been a significant player in the political and economic landscape of Europe. As a member of the powerful Hanseatic League, Gdańsk flourished as a major port and trading hub, connecting Western Europe with the eastern territories.

One of the city’s most significant historical moments occurred in the 20th century. Gdańsk is famously known as the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which played a pivotal role in the fall of communism in Central and Eastern Europe. The Gdańsk Shipyard, where Solidarity was founded in 1980 under the leadership of Lech Wałęsa, remains a symbol of resistance and freedom. Today, the European Solidarity Centre, located in the shipyard area, stands as a museum and cultural institution dedicated to the history of this movement and its impact on the world.

Architectural Splendor

Walking through Gdańsk is like stepping back in time, with its beautifully preserved and restored architecture telling the story of its past. The city’s Old Town, meticulously rebuilt after World War II, is a masterpiece of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The Main Town, with its iconic Long Market (Długi Targ) and the towering Gdańsk Town Hall, is a stunning example of the city’s historical grandeur.

One of the most striking buildings in Gdańsk is St. Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world. This Gothic marvel dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Nearby, the Artus Court, a former meeting place for merchants and a symbol of the city’s wealth, showcases the opulence of Gdańsk’s golden age.

Maritime Tradition

Gdańsk’s identity is deeply intertwined with the sea. The city’s port has been a gateway to the world for centuries, and its maritime heritage is celebrated throughout the city. The Crane (Żuraw), an iconic symbol of Gdańsk, harks back to the city’s days as a bustling port in the Middle Ages. This medieval port crane, one of the largest in Europe at the time, now houses part of the National Maritime Museum, which delves into the city’s rich seafaring history.

The riverside area of Gdańsk, along the Motława River, is bustling with activity. Modern ferries, traditional ships, and pleasure boats navigate the waters, offering visitors a chance to explore the city from a different perspective. The Maritime Culture Centre and the Museum Ship SS Sołdek are also located here, providing insights into Gdańsk’s enduring relationship with the sea.

A Hub of Culture and Innovation

Gdańsk is not only a city of history but also a thriving cultural hub. The city hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions that reflect its dynamic spirit. The annual St. Dominic’s Fair, one of the largest and oldest fairs in Europe, brings together artisans, performers, and visitors from across the continent in a lively celebration of trade and culture.

In recent years, Gdańsk has also emerged as a center for education and innovation. The city’s universities and research institutions attract students and scholars from around the world, contributing to its growing reputation as a hub of knowledge and technology.

Fun Facts About Jamboree

by Tridung Vo | Jul 17, 2025 | CMT, IST, Participants

The excitement for the 26th World Scout Jamboree in Poland is building! Here are a few things to know about the event’s powerful theme and goals:

The theme is “Bravely.” This theme is designed to inspire young people to act courageously for the future of humanity and our planet.

Youth Empowerment is the Goal. The Jamboree aims to empower young people to take initiative, make bold steps, and speak out for what they believe in.

A Focus on Well-being. The event will also help Scouts find the right balance between nature, technology, and their own well-being, including taking care of their mental health.

The Jamboree is a place where we want to encourage young people to dream big and take the floor in important discussions. Adults should support and empower them to make their dreams a reality, allowing them to learn and grow.