2026 Summer Camp Themes

Weekly Theme Descriptions

1. Into the Jungle Week

Big Backyard Camp transformed into a lush jungle as we explored Into the Jungle Week! Campers will have tons of opportunities for hands-on projects inspired by jungle animals and plants, build rich imaginative play scenarios, and move and groove to jungle-themed music and games. Together we will wonder, Who is the real king of the jungle?—sparking playful debates and learning about predator vs. prey. Along the way, children gain fascinating facts and insights into jungle habitats, discovering how animals live, adapt, and depend on one another in this vibrant ecosystem.

2. Magic and Dragons Week

Camp will be filled with wonder during Magic and Dragons Week! Young campers step into a world of imagination as they create magical projects, mix pretend potions, and bring stories of dragons and wizards to life through play. From enchanting games to creative art and dramatic play, the week encourages curiosity, collaboration, and a sense of awe—proving that a little magic can spark big ideas and joyful learning.

3. Under the Big Top

During Under the Big Top week, campers will explore what it’s like to be part of a circus. Children can expect lots of cooperative play as they work together as performers, practice simple and playful “tricks,” and discover ways to entertain an audience. Creative experiences will include making props and setting up a pretend concession stand filled with popcorn, ice cream, and other favorite treats. This week is all about imagination, teamwork, confidence-building, and plenty of circus-inspired fun.

4. Wacky World Cup Week

Get ready for a high-energy, joy-filled week as we kick off Wacky World Cup! Inspired by the excitement of our city and the spirit of countries around the world, campers will become the most enthusiastic fans ever. Each child will pick a region to represent, create a team mascot, choose team colors, and learn a fun team cheer to show their pride.

The week will be packed with wild, silly, and playful competitions designed especially for young kids—focused on movement, laughter, teamwork, and fun rather than winning. From cheering on teammates to celebrating everyone’s efforts, Wacky World Cup is all about community, creativity, and joyful play. It’s going to be energetic, wacky, and so much fun!

5. Pet Shop Week at The Big Backyard

Get ready for our most popular week of camp—Pet Shop Week! This cherished Big Backyard favorite is full of imagination, care, and joyful play. Early in the week, each camper will adopt their very own plush pet and begin learning all the things it takes to be a thoughtful and loving pet owner.

Throughout the week, children will dive into wonderful hands-on projects like designing a custom pet bowl, role-playing daily pet care routines, and preparing their pets for the spotlight. The week builds toward an exciting and playful Best in Show competition, where every pet is celebrated and cheered on. Pet Shop Week is nurturing, creative, and endlessly fun—no wonder it’s a camper favorite year after year!

6. Ocean Adventures

Our final week of camp sends us off on an imaginative journey with Ocean Adventures! Using their creativity and curiosity, campers will explore all corners of the ocean and decide who they want to be along the way—pirates, merpeople, or oceanographers.

Each child will chart their own course, creating maps, hunting for treasures, and discovering what lies beneath the ocean’s surface. Through imaginative play, hands-on projects, and shared storytelling, this week is all about adventure, exploration, and wonder. A perfect, magical way to end our camp journey—full of discovery, creativity, and ocean-sized fun!