Bulgarian National English Spelling Bee

The 2025 Spelling Bee Summer Camp was held from 6th to 12th of July in the picturesque village of Godlevo. Twenty-eight national finalists in the Bulgarian National Spelling Bee, accompanied by their teachers, gathered for a week of learning, creativity, and fun. The camp was conducted entirely in English, offering participants a valuable opportunity to improve their language skills while forming new friendships and unforgettable memories.

Each camp day followed the same structure: energizers, followed by structured sessions in the morning, choice sessions in the afternoon and fun games after dinner. Also, each day had a different theme and the activities offered were in coordination with it:

BEE Connected - The first day of camp centered on connection with new people, the space, and the experience itself. Through welcoming activities and “getting to know each other” games, campers began forming meaningful bonds.

BEE Kind - Kindness was the guiding principle at the second day (and during the whole week). From gratitude-focused activities and team-based games to creative expression and theatrical play, campers explored what it means to treat others — and themselves — with care and empathy. The “BEE Kind” theme came to life not only in planned sessions but also in countless small acts of support and encouragement throughout the day.

BEE Green - The camp embraced nature on Wednesday under the theme “Be Green and the hike and outdoor energizers encouraged appreciation for the nature. The trip to the Bears park and Okoto lake deepened this connection, giving campers the chance to experience Bulgaria’s natural beauty firsthand. 

BEE Brave - Thursday’s theme challenged campers to “Bee Brave” — to try something new, take a risk, or step outside their comfort zone.Whether jumping into unfamiliar games or speaking up in group settings, bravery showed up in many forms throughout the day.

BEE Aware - “Be Aware,” invited campers to focus on mindfulness, observation, and self-awareness. Sessions like The Power of Paying Attention helped students tune into the present moment and reflect on their habits and choices.

All the campers had the chance to participate in a lot of fun games (Time management game; Amazing race) and the quiz night gave campers a platform to test their knowledge in a playful yet competitive setting.

The American afternoon was a highlight of the camp’s program, offering participants an engaging introduction to United States geography, traditions, and pastimes. The event began with a dynamic presentation on the U.S. states, led by three American Peace Corps Volunteers from Peace Corps North Macedonia and representatives of the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria. Campers learned about regional diversity, state symbols, and historical milestones. This was followed by a lively quiz on interesting facts about the United States, sparking curiosity and friendly competition. The afternoon concluded with traditional American games. The presence of the American guests added authenticity and excitement, creating a memorable experience of cultural exchange and connection.

The campfire evening was one of the most memorable moments of the week, bringing campers together in a warm and joyful atmosphere. Gathered around the crackling fire, participants learned how to make traditional s’mores- a classic American treat of roasted marshmallows, chocolate, and biscuits. As the night progressed, the group joined in singing camp songs, led enthusiastically by the American volunteers, whose energy and humor kept everyone engaged. The volunteers also organized a series of fun games around the campfire, encouraging laughter, teamwork, and spirited participation. The evening fostered a deep sense of community, leaving campers with lasting memories of friendship and shared experiences.

The final evening of the camp culminated in a vibrant Talent Show, where campers took the stage to showcase their creativity, courage, and personality. The event featured a diverse array of performances, including heartfelt songs, energetic dance routines, humorous and dramatic theatrical skits, and even original compositions. Each act was met with enthusiastic applause, as the audience celebrated the courage and effort of every participant. The show concluded with a joyful disco party, where students, teachers, and counselors danced together, celebrating not only their performances, but the friendships and memories forged over the course of the week.

The Spelling Bee Summer Camp continues to be a vital component in the broader mission of promoting English language proficiency and personal development among Bulgaria’s youth. The 2025 edition upheld this tradition by delivering a week of educational, cultural, and recreational experiences that will leave lasting memories for all participants.