YAY Schedule
YAY Program
The theme for the 2025 Young Adult and Youth Gathering is “Peace Like a River, Joy Like a Fountain: Nourishing Spirit through Creativity, Worship, and Play.”
Each day will offer YAY attenders the opportunity to explore the theme in community with one another!
A Typical Day at the YAY Gathering
Every day at the YAY Gathering will begin with all-ages worship. Through stories, songs, art, silence, spoken ministry, and more, we’ll create a space where Friends from the youngest to the oldest can ground themselves in a community of spiritual practice.
Workshops and Junior Gathering
After worship, Junior Gathering participants will have sessions in their age groups, while high schoolers and adults choose from a variety of workshop offerings on topics like earthcare, action for justice, spirituality, Quaker parenting, and more. Look for a full list of workshop offerings on this page in late March!
Intergenerational Afternoons
After lunch, YAY attenders of all ages are invited to lead or participate in a craft, game, or other activity. Some past offerings have included Capture the Flag, pickup soccer, ballroom dancing, jigsaw puzzles, board games, and art projects. If you have an activity you’d like to lead, let us know when you register! Friends are also welcome to use the afternoon free time for naps, walks on the Colombiere nature trails, or casual conversation. High School and Adult Young Friends will have support group meetings in the late afternoon.
Evening Program
Each evening, YAY participants will come back together for a shared activity.
Thursday: Story-Sharing. Hear from other attendees about their experiences of “peace like a river” and “joy like a fountain,” and share your own. A chance for participants of all ages to connect with one another and the theme.
Friday: Dance Celebration. Move joyfully in community! Outdoors, weather permitting.
Saturday: Talent Show. Bring an instrument, poem, comedy routine, or other performance talent to share with Friends– or just enthusiasm for the talents of others!
Late Nights
Oaks (middle school), High School, and Adult Young Friends programs will meet for an additional session after the evening program. Other Friends are welcome to hang out with other attenders in a late-night lounge, spend time with family, or have quiet time before bed.
Check out the Junior Gathering, High School, and Adult Young Friends program pages for more information about what‘s going on at YAY!
