2nd week – Veselka Recreational Overnight Camp 2026

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Saturday – 25 July

 

After two unforgettable weeks, the “Iskra Nadiyi” camp at “Veselka” came to an end. The final day was filled with heartwarming moments, memories, and goodbyes that will remain in the participants’ hearts for a long time to come.

The day began with breakfast, after which the participants signed each other’s camp T-shirts as keepsakes. Later, everyone pitched in to clean up the camp, preparing the facility for the next camp session.

 

Afterward, the participants watched a camp slideshow, reminiscing about the most memorable moments of the past two weeks, and sang the camp song one last time together while performing the camp dance for their parents.

The event concluded with a closing ceremony to mark the end of camp. After saying their goodbyes, the participants packed their belongings and headed home, taking with them new memories, strong friendships, and unforgettable experiences from the “Iskra Nadiyi” camp.

We kindly remind you that additional fotos of week 1 can be viewed here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/sW1vZBNLcrshMbNk7 and for week 2, here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/v5TAzjQT9VB6d6bw6 as well as the final camp video, see below:

 

Friday – 24 July

The penultimate day of the “Iskra Nadiyi” camp at “Veselka” was dedicated to one of the camp’s most beloved traditions, combining Ukrainian customs, creativity, and lots of joy.

Throughout the day, participants took part in a discussion about Ukrainian wedding customs and the korovai. Afterward, they made traditional “larks” for the korovai with their own hands, prepared for the long-awaited camp wedding, and enjoyed a lively water-splashing game.

In the evening, the traditional camp wedding took place, an event that has remained one of the camp’s most memorable highlights for many years. After the wedding, the participants gathered for the final celebration, which served as a wonderful conclusion to yet another unforgettable day at camp.

 

Thursday – 23 July

 

Another day at the “Iskra Nadiyi” camp at “Veselka” was filled with vibrant colors, camp traditions, and unforgettable moments.

After lunch, the campers had a great time during a colorful race, and later continued the day with sports rotations, choosing between volleyball and badminton, orienteering, where they practiced map reading, crafts, camp group activities, and singing, preparing camp group skits and rehearsing songs for the evening campfire.

To mark the 80th anniversary of CYM in the diaspora, after dinner the camp community gathered by the pond, where participants released lanterns bearing the anniversary logo to honor this important occasion.

The day concluded with the traditional camp bonfire. The groups presented their songs and skits, and the evening provided a wonderful opportunity to once again experience the spirit of the camp, creativity, and unity that had accompanied the participants throughout the day.

 

Wednesday – 22 July

Another action-packed day at the “Iskra Nadiyi” camp at “Veselka” combined adventure, teamwork, and creativity, giving the participants new and vivid experiences.

Throughout the day, campers took part in an outdoor game in which “evil forces” kidnapped the camp commander. By completing tasks and banding together in their cabins, the participants set out to find him, overcoming various challenges where Ukrainian songs and chants became their best weapons.

Afterward, the participants continued the day with rotations focused on orienteering, sports (badminton), and preparations for the evening’s “Camp Grammys.”

In the evening, performances took place, followed by the “Camp Grammys.” Each group was tasked with pairing a prominent historical figure from Ukraine with a contemporary Ukrainian music group, creating their own version of a well-known song and presenting an original concept that combined the historical figure with the modern artist. The evening was filled with countless creative ideas, laughter, and unforgettable performances.

 

Tuesday – 21 July

At the “Veselka” camp, no two days are ever the same, and today was yet another example of that. Unexpected surprises, interesting activities, and plenty of fun camp traditions awaited the campers.

The day began in “Reverse” style: breakfast and dinner switched places, and the morning assembly took place in an unusual format, bringing everyone lots of laughter and good cheer.

Instead of the traditional evening event, this day featured “Morning of Tricks,” during which the cabins competed in various fun contests and challenges.

In preparation for the camp wedding, a bachelorette party and a bachelor party were held. The boys spent their time playing board games, while the girls enjoyed sweets and wrote letters to the bride, creating a special atmosphere on the eve of the celebration.

Later, the participants took part in a discussion dedicated to the history of CYM, where they learned how secret messages were transmitted in the 1920s. Afterward, they tested their skills in a themed game, trying to deliver a secret message without being noticed.

To wrap up the day, the participants gathered for an evening yoga session, which provided a wonderful opportunity to relax and recharge before the next day at camp.

 

Monday – 20 July

Today at camp “Veselka”, the “Iskra Nadiyi” campers enjoyed a break from their usual routine and new adventures outside the camp grounds.

In the morning, the campers headed to the Kelso Conservation Area, where they enjoyed nature on a walk, played volleyball, and swam in the lake. Upon returning to camp, the participants had time to cool off with a dip and continued rehearsing the camp dance.

In the evening, the traditional “Talent Show” took place, during which the campers had the opportunity to showcase their talents and creativity. From musical and dance performances to funny skits and surprise acts, the evening was filled with genuine smiles, applause, and mutual support.

Sunday – 19 July

At the “Veselka” campsite, another warm and joyful day at the “Iskra Nadiyi” camp came to a close—a day dedicated to community, relaxation, and spending time with family.

After breakfast and the morning assembly, the campers had free time, during which they met with their parents. Together, they enjoyed a barbecue and watched a soccer match during the “FIFA Watch Party,” spending time in a friendly and festive atmosphere.

Later, the camp community gathered for the Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Fr. Boris Hemon. At the end of the day, the campers prepared for bed so they could start the second week of camp with renewed energy.