The Week We Didn’t Go Camping: Tales from the Legendary Camp-Not-Camp Extravaganza!
Ah, summer—the season of sun, fun, and avoiding mosquitoes at all costs. But for a group of adventurous souls, this summer was anything but ordinary. Picture this: a week-long escapade filled with nerf wars, inflatable obstacle courses, and enough laughter to power a small city. Welcome to the unforgettable world of Camp-Not-Camp!
We love all the camps we’ve been to over the last decade, but regardless of how amazing they are, we always end up losing touch with a number of young people over summer who don’t feel comfortable at them. So, this year we designed something specifically for the young people we have. Camping with their friends at homes and in gardens, and a week of mad activities!
Attack on Area 51 Nerf War: Storming the Unstoppable Fun Fortress
Our brave campers kicked off the week with an “Attack on Area 51” nerf war, proving once and for all that foam darts and tactical manoeuvres are the keys to intergalactic success. Clad in their most out-of-this-world attire, participants faced off in a battle for the ages. The aliens may have had their defences up, but our fearless warriors had laughter on their side. Huge thanks to Gloddaeth Church for allowing up to completely redecorate for the event!
Cinema Night: Where Popcorn Dreams Come True
What’s a summer event without a cinematic masterpiece? Camp-Not-Camp transformed into a makeshift cinema, complete with blankets, pillows, and enough popcorn to fill a swimming pool. From classic blockbusters to heart-warming animations – in the guise of Lego Batman! – Our campers revelled in a night of big-screen bliss, complete with hot-dogs and popcorn.
Scavenger Hunt Extravaganza: Unlocking the Secrets of the Town
In the spirit of exploration, our campers embarked on a town-wide scavenger hunt. Armed with clues, maps, and the burning desire to outwit the competition, they scoured every nook and cranny. With six local businesses in on the action, the hunt was a quest for treasure, hidden in plain sight. Who knew that the local department store, Clares, held the key to victory?
John Bright School Hall Spectacle: Bouncy Castles, Obstacle Courses, and Surf Simulators, Oh My!
The grand finale unfolded in the Ysgol John Bright main hall, where an 80ft inflatable obstacle course, a towering slide, bouncy castles, sumo suits, and a surf simulator turned the space into a playground of epic proportions. It was a battleground of laughter, triumph, and good-natured chaos. The only requirement for entry? A heart ready for adventure.
Feasts Fit for Champions: Breakfasts, Subs, and Shared Stories
No adventure is complete without hearty sustenance, and the camp-not-camp crew knew how to refuel in style. Zoom breakfasts, in-person feasts, and a monumental Subway platter kept everyone energized and ready for the next escapade. Because when you’re conquering obstacle courses and storming imaginary alien bases, you need fuel that packs a punch.
Sharing the Gospel with a Side of Laughter
In the midst of the uproarious festivities, there were moments of reflection and inspiration. The camp-not-camp experience wasn’t just about conquering inflatable behemoths—it was also an opportunity to share the gospel in unique and meaningful ways. Korey from Colwyn Youth for Christ brought the message home on the last day, reminding everyone that joy, faith, and adventure can go hand in hand, so why not give Jesus a chance?
In the end, Camp-Not-Camp wasn’t just an event—it was a week-long journey into the heart of community, laughter, and shared experiences. As the summer sun dipped below the horizon, our intrepid campers walked away with memories that will last a lifetime. Until next year, when we once again trade the quiet of the campfire for the roar of the inflatable obstacle course. Camp-Not-Camp, you were a wild ride, and we wouldn’t have had it any other way!
