What is an international Scout and Guide Jamboree actually like?
If you’ve never been to a large international Scout and Guide jamboree before, you might be wondering: what will it actually feel like for me and my group?
At WINGS 2026, we like to think the answer is simple: it’s a week full of adventure and friendship providing memories that will last a lifetime……..of course if you’ve not been before, then you might want a little more insight.
On this page, we’ve provide information on what it’s like to attend WINGS 2026.
What is it like to attend an international jamboree?
An international jamboree is in effect a festival dedicated to the spirit of Scouting and Guiding (think Glastonbury………but with neckers).
It is a huge positive celebration that brings together thousands of young people to share the things they love; adventures, learning new skills and most importantly friendship.
At WINGS 2026, we camp in the heart of Windsor Great Park and create a safe, and secure space with different activity zones where the participants (Guides, Scouts, Rangers and Explorers) can throw themselves into adventurous activities.
Activities range from watersports and survival skills to performance and creativity. In the evening, we provided a range of entertainment that includes live music on our main stage to a chilled out big-screen cinema. There really is something for everyone! You can find out more information on our programme page.
A lot of the activities put on at WINGS can be difficult to arrange on a weekly unit night or at a local camp. At the WINGS jamboree it’s a chance to experience the full scale of Scouting and Guiding adventures in one place, while knowing everything is supported by expert teams and delivered to the highest safety standards.
So…..what does a typical day at WINGS look like?
It can be hard to put in words what a “typical” day might look like, as each day brings different active and experiences to be enjoyed, but below is an what we would see as a typical rhythm of a day, based on the experiences of previous attendees:
In the morning you’ll wake up on site (did we mention it is in the incredible Windsor Great Park with Windsor Castle near by……its breath-taking) and usually begins with a flag ceremony, where Guides and Scouts from around the world gather to raise national flags and share a moment of unity.
After you’ve enjoyed a hearty breakfast (with the ingredients provided by WINGS as part of your attendance), participants dive into a wide range of activities (you’ll attend these as a group alongside other groups from within your sub-camp).
After a busy morning of activities, adventures and fun, you’ll have time for lunch back at your camp and this offers a chance for some downtime.
Afternoons will be filled with more exploration and fun, following which you’ll return to your camp to prepare and eat your evening meals (where again the ingredients will be provided by the WINGS food team). This will be a great opportunity to share stories of that day’s adventures.
You day of activities will include many activities onsite, but there will also be some activities off-site and we will transport you in busses and coaches to and from these, so there is no need to worry about driving young people either.
After you’ve cleared and washed your dishes, you might attend the flag break and lowering ceremony.
As the sun sets on your day, everyone gathers for the evening programme, whether it’s the opening and closing ceremony, live-music, a talent show, disco or outdoor cinema.
The day will end with stories, laughter, and then the quiet hum (and no doubt a bit of snoring too) of tents under the stars.
Where will our tents be located?
Because WINGS 2026 brings together thousands of Scouts and Guides, the site is divided into smaller camping areas called sub-camps. Each sub-camp will have its own identity tied into the WINGS 2026 theme and a volunteer team dedicated to support and engaging with the units in their sub-camp. The sub-camp also makes it easier to meet your neighbours and get to know other units.
At WINGS 2026, we provide the ingredients for your meals (with options taking consideration of dietary needs) and these are delivered to your sub-camp for collection. Each unit’s meal requirements will be boxed up for easy collection and typically delivered end of the morning / early afternoon with that day’s dinner, the next morning’s breakfast and lunch and snacks, reducing the burden to order, transport and store food.
At WINGS 2026 (and many other jamborees), the sub-camp is where your group will “live” during the week. A friendly home base where you return to after packed days of adventure.
We also have an exciting challenge that we’ll be running during WINGS 2026 that will encourage young people to go and visit the other sub-camps to see how they are setup, meet new groups and provide a chance to explore.
Interested in being part of the incredible WINGS adventure?
If you’ve read this far, then no doubt you’ll be excited to be part of the incredible WINGS 2026. Your unit can join us by signing up on the bookings page