Open Day

The first official Kent International Jamboree Open Day on Wednesday 31st July saw 1200 people flock through the gates to join in with the fun!  People were keen to meet up with their families and young people to hear all about what they had been doing.

The site was busy with visitors eager to have a look and take part in some specially laid on activities.  The massive bouncy castles were popular with all ages and the dodgems were busy all day!

Visitors got the chance to try their hand at some science and craft activities in the main arena, as well as have a go at some on sub camps.  Some mind boggling challenges were on offer too with a variety of puzzles designed for all ages to have a go at.

The circus tent had two special performances during the day and visitors got a taste of what the participants had seen.  Audience participation was a must and laughter and applause were key ingredients to great shows!

The Scouting journey tent was crammed full of people eager to take part in the history quiz and swap badges.  Young people were keen to hear all about how Scouting started and how things used to be from Colin Walker, a Scouting historian and Kelvin Holford who had put the exhibition together.

Visitors were also able to browse the shops and buy special KIJ souvenirs and Scouting merchandise. 

Altitude the on-site newspaper produced a special Open Day issue which was distributed at the end of the day to encourage adults to get involved with this great adventure of Scouting!

The end of the day saw a spectacular closing show with the KIJ cast performing some popular songs and videos of Bear Grylls chatting about the amazing opportunities there are for adults to get involved and volunteer their time.

Thanks to everyone who came along, helped make it happen – we couldn’t have done it without you!

Beccy Martin and Bunty Ridgway – The Kent Events Support Team