Peterloon, a beloved biennial camporee put on by the Dan Beard Council, is coming back after being postponed last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s event is slated for Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 at Camp Friedlander in Ohio. The last Peterloon, held in 2019, drew about 6,000 Scouts, a stark contrast to the first event in 1927, which attracted 300 Scouts and leaders.
One of the keys to the camporee’s success has been the anticipation. Since the 1950s, the event has been held every other year. This time, there’s been a three-year hiatus, and Scouts will be treated to exciting activities and programs. Plans include an arena show with fireworks, vehicles and simulators from the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, flyovers and more than 60 additional activities.
In past events, troops have come from other councils and even Canada. In 2019, Cub Scouts were invited to camp overnight. They will get to do so again this year. The theme for this year is “Prepared. For life,” with aspects of adventure via COPE and shooting sports, along with career-based elements, like music education workshops and skill stations in welding and plumbing. One of the favorite activities is Peterloon’s patrol competition, which focuses on traditional Scout skills and games.
Early registration for Peterloon is open with regular fees starting Aug. 5.
Share your campouts
Often, councils and districts across the country host camporees, inviting many units to come together to have fun and camp. Let us know about your and your Scout’s favorite camporee experience — or better yet, tell Scout Life magazine beforehand. Whether you’re going to attend an awesome camporee or planning a cool unit-only outing, the Scout Life magazine staff can help share your Scouts’ stories if you send in the ideas.
And if you’ve already gone on a fun trip, still send it over to us by emailing onscouting@scouting.org or clicking here.
Stay safe
Remember, for any Scout outing, especially large group gatherings, to follow medical pre-screening procedures before going. For those procedures and COVID-19 precautions, see this post.
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