Essex International Jamboree: A Week to Remember!

From Angela, 1st Lyonsdown:

1st Lyonsdown Scouts and Explorers recently returned from Essex International Jamboree (EIJ), where we shared a camp with Scouts and leaders from 211 North London. EIJ became the largest village in a farmer’s field in Essex with 6,000 other scouts and guides from around the world. The event even made the BBC News!

We were based in the Ganges sub-camp, one of 11 named after rivers of the world. Rivers, being the lifeblood of our planet, connecting us, nurturing ecosystems, fostering new life, and supporting communities. They symbolised the unity all attendees aspired to at the Jamboree, where our sub-camps connected us all as one Essex International Jamboree family.

The weather was fantastic—hot and sunny—perfect for a week packed with daytime activities. Our scouts took part in everything from outdoor challenges to team-building exercises. Evenings were just as lively, with live bands providing great entertainment, and the grand finale was a fun fair on the last night.

Although we self-catered, there were plenty of food outlets and a marquee offering delicious freshly made slushies and milkshakes, which proved incredibly popular. We also enjoyed themed evenings like International Night, where each sub-camp prepared and shared dishes from their home countries, fostering a global sense of community.

New friendships were forged, and our scouts left with memories and connections that will last a lifetime. It was truly an unforgettable experience!