GV Special Days!
One of our most beloved traditions at camp is our Special Days—days where the usual camp schedule is set aside and replaced with themed activities, skits, games and surprises that bring the whole camp together in a unique way. Special days are all about creating memories, connecting with friends and experiencing the magic of camp in a new light. This week we had not just one, but two incredible Special Days: a July Fourth extravaganza and a Jungle Adventure Day!
July Fourth at Gwynn Valley was packed with excitement and a whole lot of red, white, and blue. Campers woke up to a raucous call to action as staff on horseback rode through camp shouting, “The British are coming!” Breakfast was a highlight in itself, thanks to a skit from the Staff in Training (SITs), who reenacted the Boston Tea Party on the lake while patriotic music filled the air, featuring Dolly Parton’s rendition of God Bless America. At lunch, campers were surprised with a spontaneous dance party celebrating iconic American artists—naturally featuring Miley Cyrus’ Party in the USA. The afternoon brought a beloved tradition: Gwynn Valley’s annual Famous American Parade, where staff members dress up in costumes and embody notable (and sometimes unexpected) figures from American history and pop culture. Only at Gwynn Valley would you find Amelia Earhart, Katie Ledecky, Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked and Bruno Mars all marching together! Before a dinner of classic Southern barbecue, campers watched their favorite counselors compete in hilarious challenges including a water balloon toss, a pie-eating contest, and a donut-on-a-string showdown. After putting on pajamas and brushing their teeth, campers gathered around the lake for the grand finale: a dazzling fireworks display, perfectly complemented by fireflies twinkling in the evening breeze.
After all the patriotic excitement, campers had just enough time to catch their breath before diving into their next special day—Jungle Adventure! While campers were fast asleep Saturday night, Gwynn Valley transformed into a beautiful jungle. The dining hall overflowed with exotic flowers, hanging vines and animals native to the tropical rainforest ecosystem. After being introduced to their Jungle Guide, campers met some of the animals on camp (counselors dressed up in silly costumes) and were warned of a crocodile on the loose. They then explored the jungle throughout the day, completing theme-based activities such as practicing their vine-jumping technique on the rope swing and discovering their spirit animal!
This past week at Gwynn Valley has been one for the books! From celebrating Independence Day to embarking on an unforgettable jungle-themed adventure, our community has shared endless moments of laughter and joy.
