24th World Scout Jamboree officially begins through vivacious opening ceremony
45,000 young people from nearly every country in the world gathered, standing side by side to celebrate the opening ceremony of the 24th World Scout Jamboree in wild and wonderful West Virginia.
After months of planning, preparation and anticipation, Scouts from over 150 countries arrived in North America to experience the trip and adventure of a lifetime. The 12-day learning adventure kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony that inspired the massive crowd. Flag bearers from each country walked down through the audience proudly waving their flags onto the main stage, officially opening one of the largest and most culturally diverse events for young people.
Cheers and enthusiasm filled the AT&T Summit Stadium at the Summit Bechtel Reserve, as Scouts enjoyed live performances from South Africa’s Lebo M to Recycled Percussion who rocked the stage with their recycled musical instruments. Canada’s 48th Highlanders and Royal Canadian Mounted Police showcased a ceremonial march among the crowd, representing one of the Jamboree’s co-hosts.
“The show was fantastic. It’s my first time at a World Scout Jamboree and I’m very excited about it because there are so many activities to choose from and many people to meet,” said 15 year-old Sam from the Netherlands.
The quadrennial celebration marked the start of the 24th World Scout Jamboree hosted by the Boy Scouts of America, Scouts Canada and Asociación de Scouts de México.
Chief Ambassador of World Scouting, Bear Grylls made a surprise appearance on stage after spending time in adventure activities with Scouts and engaging in discussions with them about sustainability. During the show he urged Scouts to continue making a positive impact on the environment and the world at large.
After 45,000 people made a collective Scout promise, Craig Turpie, Chairperson of the World Scout Committee addressed the young audience:
“World Scout Jamborees only happen every four years and tens of thousands of Scouts from all around the world attend each one. It is in times like these that we can show the world how people are able to live in peace and harmony. Scouts, you are shaping the next generation of global leaders.”
As part of the show, World Scouting announced the launch of a new interactive app, Nano app, designed to engage Scouts and other young people in taking action for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A sensational atmosphere filled the show by the various technological elements that were involved including high-tech NOVUS wristbands that lit up at different moments during the event. Given to every Scout, leader and volunteer present at this year’s Jamboree, the NOVUS wristband allows them to connect with new friends, collect activity points, earn digital badges and explore new adventures across the campsite.
The ultimate highlight that was used to conclude the opening ceremony was an outstanding drone show. Colorfully lit drones slowly aligned to form different symbols of Scouting that delightfully lit up the skies of West Virginia. The audience was wonderstruck as they looked up to watch the light show.
Throughout the coming weeks Scouts will be camping, living and working together in an unforgettable experience of international celebration.
The World Scout Jamboree is an incredible festival of peace and a place for young people around the globe to learn, explore and build new friendships. The 24th World Scout Jamboree will be the journey of a lifetime.
About the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM)
Scouting is the world’s leading educational youth movement, engaging millions of young people to be active citizens and create positive change in their communities. The World Scout Movement is made up of more than 50 million Scouts connected together through a global membership of 170 National Scout Organizations.
Media contact
For media inquiries, please contact:
Farah Sayegh
Manager, Media and Content Development
World Organization of the Scout Movement
media@scout.org