Scouting’s flagship event is one-of-a-kind. It’s a gathering of approximately 15,000 Scouts, leaders, and staff that showcases everything that is great about the BSA and its members. Held every four years, the Jamboree is an amazing opportunity for participants, volunteers, and visitors to experience the best of Scouting, all in one place. Features include; one of the longest zip line courses in North America, a world-class skate park, ATV offerings, treetop canopy tours, rock climbing, patch trading, stadium shows, optional white water rafting and much more!
HISTORY
The first Boy Scouts of America national jamboree was scheduled to be held in Washington, D.C., in 1935 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Scouting in America. Unfortunately, the jamboree was canceled because of a polio outbreak in Washington. When the first jamboree was finally held in 1937, Dan Beard lit the opening campfire using flint and steel. Scouts from all 48 states brought the wood that was used in the campfire. There were 27,232 Scouts camped on the National Mall under the Washington Monument. Since that time, an additional 18 national jamborees have been held, the last in 2017.
DETAILS
Every four years, the San Diego-Imperial Council puts together a Jamboree Contingent, comprised of units of 36 youth and 4 adult leaders. This year units will include Male Troops, Female Troops, and Venture Crews.
Besides the Jamboree experience itself, there are many costs that are incurred in preparation for the event. These costs include (but may not be limited to):
- Airfare to and from San Diego
- Luggage fees
- Hotel and security
- Jamboree training, meetings, and other events
- Jamboree gear, including all troop/crew specific gear (flags, unit numerals, hats, shirts, jackets, backpack, duffle bag, neckerchief , nametag and patches)
- Jamboree event fee
- Dedicated Scouting professional and support staff to facilitate and assist in a successful Jamboree experience
- Bus transportation to and from Jamboree with dedicated bus drivers
YOUTH PARTICIPANTS
The Jamboree is open to all who are qualified on a first-come, first-served basis. Qualifications to attend the National Jamboree include:
- Registered member of a Scout Troop, who has completed the 6th grade, or will be at least 12 years old (but who has not yet reached their 18th birthday by 8/1/2023) and a first-class Scout by July 1, 2023. --OR--
- Registered member of a Venture Crew.
- Must live and abide by the Scout Oath and Law.
- Must abide by the Jamboree Code of Conduct.
At the time of registration, Scouts will be placed in a Jamboree troop/crew that is closest to where you live, unless that troop/crew is full. If that troop/crew is full the Scout will be placed in the closest available troop/crew. Each Scout will be a member of a patrol within their unit. Every contingent member will be required to participate in and have the following:
- Monthly troop or crew meetings
- A completed National Jamboree Medical form signed by a licensed physician
- Attend the all-contingent gathering
- Attend an overnight training encampment.
- Have all fees paid no later than March 20, 2023.
PRICING AND REGISTRATION
2023 Jamboree is $3,400. Jamboree fees include everything listed above. Other out-of-pocket expenses may include (but are not limited to) additional uniforms, patches, and spending money.
A non-refundable reservation fee of $250 must accompany the initial registration. Once you click on the registration button, you will be prompted to "choose participant type". Once you begin your registration process, you will also be prompted to indicate which type of unit you would prefer to be in: Male Troop, Female Troop, or Venture Crew.
We highly suggest that regular payments be made, perhaps $400 per month or even quarterly payments. Full payment must be received no later than March 20, 2023 in order for the participant to attend. The following is the payment schedule for the 2023 National Jamboree (although more may be paid in advance):
Balance Due Schedule (per participant):
If for some reason a participant is unable to attend, a refund may be considered minus the non-refundable amount. If for some reason a participant is unable to attend and is able to fill his/her spot with another eligible participant a full refund will be approved.
ADULT LEADERSHIP
Adult Leadership has not yet been selected for the San Diego-Imperial Council contingent.
Being a leader for a Council contingent and is a very important part of the youth experience, therefore, there is a leader selection committee that will choose the leadership this fall. If you are interested in applying to be a contingent leader please register on the link below by January 1st.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND FINANCIAL NEEDS
No matter what your financial situation is, many scholarship opportunities become available throughout the process from the National office and from generous donors. Please do not think that you cannot afford it. Also, there are still a years’ worth of fundraising opportunities before Jamboree, so have your scout do his best to pay his own way.
Do not forget to register on the National Jamboree site as well by clicking here.
PDF Info sheet with complete information on Council Jamboree Troop
