By Dimitar Tsekov | Executive Director
Spelling Bee Summer Camp 2026: A Week of Learning, Friendship, and Unforgettable Memories
From July 5 to 11, 2026, the picturesque village of Godlevo came alive with the energy, laughter, and enthusiasm of 28 national finalists of the Bulgarian National Spelling Bee, who gathered together with their teachers for a truly unforgettable week of learning, discovery, creativity, and fun.
For one week, English was not just a subject—it was the language of friendship, adventure, laughter, and new experiences. The camp was conducted entirely in English, giving students a unique opportunity to strengthen their language skills in a natural and inspiring environment while stepping outside their comfort zones, meeting new people, and creating friendships and memories that will stay with them long after the camp is over.
Each day began with energizing activities and continued with engaging morning sessions, a variety of afternoon choice activities, and fun-filled games after dinner. Throughout the week, campers explored important themes such as leadership, civic engagement, volunteerism, and environmental stewardship, discovering that being a leader is not only about taking the lead, but also about caring for others, contributing to one's community, and taking responsibility for the world around us.
Learning was always accompanied by plenty of laughter and excitement. Campers took part in a variety of team-building and problem-solving activities, including the Time Management Game and the Amazing Race, which challenged them to communicate, cooperate, think creatively, and work together under pressure. The much-anticipated Quiz Night added a playful competitive spirit, giving everyone the chance to test their knowledge, cheer for their teams, and celebrate both success and friendship.
One of the highlights of the week was the American Afternoon, which offered campers an exciting journey across the United States through geography, history, traditions, and games. The event had a special significance as it celebrated the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Three American Peace Corps Volunteers from Peace Corps North Macedonia led a dynamic presentation about the U.S. states, introducing campers to America's regional diversity, state symbols, and fascinating historical milestones. A lively quiz followed, filling the room with curiosity, laughter, and friendly competition. The afternoon ended with traditional American games, giving students the opportunity to experience a small taste of American culture in the most memorable way—by playing, laughing, and having fun together.
The campfire evening was another magical moment of the week. As the sun set and the fire began to glow, campers gathered together for an evening filled with warmth, music, laughter, and friendship. They learned how to make traditional American s'mores, combining roasted marshmallows, chocolate, and biscuits into a delicious campfire treat. Later, the American volunteers led everyone in singing camp songs, filling the evening with energy and joy. Fun games around the fire brought even more laughter and encouraged teamwork and participation. Under the evening sky, surrounded by new friends, campers experienced the special sense of belonging that makes summer camp so meaningful.
The final evening brought the week to a spectacular close with a vibrant Talent Show, where campers bravely stepped into the spotlight and shared their talents, creativity, and personalities. The stage came alive with heartfelt songs, energetic dances, humorous and dramatic theatrical performances, and even original compositions. Every performance was met with enthusiastic applause and encouragement, celebrating not only talent, but also the courage it takes to stand in front of an audience and simply be yourself.
And then came the final celebration—a joyful party where students, teachers, and counselors danced together, laughed together, and celebrated everything they had shared during the week. By then, the campers were no longer simply a group of national finalists who had arrived in Godlevo at the beginning of July. They had become a community—connected by shared challenges, adventures, songs, games, laughter, and countless small moments that had turned into unforgettable memories.
The Spelling Bee Summer Camp is much more than a reward for students who have excelled in an English language competition. It is a space where young people discover their voices, build confidence, develop leadership skills, learn to work as a team, and experience the joy of learning beyond the classroom. It is a place where English becomes a bridge to new friendships, new cultures, and new possibilities.
The 2026 Spelling Bee Summer Camp continued this important tradition, bringing together education, personal growth, cultural exchange, and pure summer fun. For one special week in Godlevo, 28 young people had the chance to learn, explore, laugh, perform, lead, and dream together—and to leave with something far more valuable than words from a spelling list: the confidence to use their voices, the courage to step forward, and memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
By Dimitar Tsekov | Executive Director
By Dimitar Tsekov | Executive Director
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