It's the end of Session 3!

It's hard to believe that session 3 has come to an end at our camp. 

The camp theme for this session has been Color Wars. Color wars is an annual tradition at our camps (and many camps!) where campers separate into different colors and we hold competitions between the groups. We love the competitive spirit the Color Wars brings out in our campers, counselors and staff every year. Check out all the highlights for each of our camp locations below.

With only 3 weeks of camp left, we are soaking up every minute of the fun, memories and sun. If your camper isn't signed up for Session 4 (starts Monday, Aug. 7) don't delay! We are planning to end our 2023 Summer Camp season the Y way!

This week, we also announced our 1st ever End of Summer Camp Bash, exclusively for our YMCA Summer Day Camp families. With special thanks to @Amazon for their support in making this event FREE for our families. Join us on August 10 at 6:30pm (East Hampton Camp Families: Aug. 15th at 4pm) for some family fun activities. Meet your camp friends and say farewell to the summer together at the Y. Every camp location has different activities and registration is required. Register NOW: ymcali.org/summercampbash.

Great South Bay YMCA

The past week has been incredible for our Great South Bay campers. The campers had their Color Run where the campers run through colored powdery air! Campers love all the colors and running with their friends.  

Our Pre-Teens and Teens had an absolutely incredible time exploring Adventure Land amusement park, bowling, mini-golf and more. These off-campus adventures provided our campers with a rejuvenating change of scenery, allowing them to break free from their everyday routines and wholeheartedly embrace new and exhilarating opportunities.

To wrap up an amazing week, we have a heartwarming story to share with you all! One of our Great South Bay Campers brought in a dollar to spend at our Y Guy Trading Post. With so many options to choose from, he decided to purchase a Y-t-shirt for his sister! In recognition of his kindness and generosity, he was awarded a gold coin to use at the snack shack for himself. These special gold coins are given to campers who exemplify the values of kindness, respect, and lending a helping hand to others. We are so proud of all our campers who have received gold coins! Keep up the good work!

Patchogue Family YMCA 

The energy and excitement at our Patchogue Family YMCA camp during color wars was absolutely electrifying! The campgrounds were transformed into a vibrant display of colors as our campers proudly wore different colors each day leading up to the color run. We love the team chants and rallies that make the color wars even more exciting!

Pre-Teen and Teens have not only embraced new experiences but also stepped out of their comfort zones, pushing themselves to achieve new heights. The challenges and victories they faced during Nijia and their Paintball Trip were truly remarkable.

Nijia was an exhilarating obstacle course that tested the campers' physical strength, agility, and mental focus. They navigated through various obstacles, such as climbing walls, crawling through tunnels, and balancing on beams, all while being timed. It was a true test of their determination and resilience as they pushed themselves to overcome each challenge. The campers cheered each other on, offering words of encouragement and support, creating a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. It was inspiring to witness their growth and see them surpass their own expectations.

The Paintball Trip was another adventure that allowed the campers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the thrill of friendly competition. Equipped with paintball guns and protective gear, they strategized and worked together in teams to outmaneuver their opponents and capture the flag. The adrenaline rush and excitement were palpable as they dodged paintballs and strategized their next move. The campers displayed remarkable teamwork and sportsmanship, celebrating each victory and learning from each defeat. It was a truly unforgettable experience that pushed them to think on their feet and develop their problem-solving skills.

East Hampton RECenter

The fun and excitement continued at our East Hampton Camp this week as our campers had a blast participating in various activities. One of the highlights was getting their favorite animals painted on their faces, which brought out their creative and playful side. From fierce tigers to adorable puppies, the campers transformed into their spirit animals and embraced their wild imaginations. The water slide and water inflatables outside provided endless hours of fun and laughter as the campers splashed and slid their way to pure joy. The sound of their laughter echoed through the campgrounds, creating a symphony of happiness that warmed the hearts of everyone around.

But the adventure didn't stop there for our Teen Campers! They embarked on an unforgettable journey to Montauk! The campers had so much fun! Meanwhile, our pre-teen campers had their own adventure as they enjoyed a friendly game of mini golf. 

To end the week on a colorful note, the kids got to wear white and participate in a color run. They transformed into walking works of art, their laughter and joy echoing through the campgrounds. It was a celebration of individuality and self-expression, a moment where everyone could let loose and embrace their true colors.

YMCA at Glen Cove

The color wars at our Glen Cove Camp were an absolute blast! The campers arrived at the sports field dressed in their assigned team colors, ready to take on a day filled with friendly competition. Divided into age groups and colors, they unleashed their competitive spirit and gave it their all to earn points for their team.

Towards the end of the week, the campers had a unique and exhilarating experience. They put on their white outfits and ventured into the woods, where they were greeted with an explosion of color. The campers couldn't help but compare with their friends how much color they each had on themselves!

Huntington YMCA

The exhilarating start to the color wars activities at our Huntington Camp set the tone for an unforgettable week filled with excitement and friendly competition.

In between activities, the campers took a break from the intense competition to cool off and have a blast on the water slides and squirters. 

Swimming and running around in the gym added to the fun and excitement of the week.  In the gym, they engaged in friendly races and relays, pushing their bodies to the limit and celebrating each personal achievement.

But the highlight of the week was undoubtedly the special visit from a magician. The young campers were captivated by the magician's tricks and illusions!