In Szarvas Camp you’ll find a wide range of different activities where you can try out your sport, communication or creative skills. Some of our bike trips are leaving 5:30 in the morning!
Our approach to Judaism is open and pluralist. We accept all streams, styles and levels of Judaism. You can learn prayers, songs, visit the Synagogue or simply enjoy being Jewish.
By using informal methodology our trained staff is guiding our campers through the educational agenda and theme. We might also teach you how to write a newspaper or create your own music.
Szarvas is a miracle. A second home where everyone can be themselves.
Who would have thought that mixing so many languages and cultures, and ways of being Jewish would lead to such a strong and supportive community? But we are proof that we are strongest together. Our Jewishness bolsters us. We learn from each other. We push each other. We grow together.
Szarvas Camp is a 12-day international Jewish camp where campers from various countries come together to explore and celebrate their Jewish identity. The camp offers a diverse range of programs aimed at community building, learning, and fun. Lifelong friendships are formed here as participants discover the Jewish culture and traditions.
The camp offers numerous exciting and varied programs, including crafts, sports, music and dance activities, as well as opportunities to learn more about Jewish values, culture and traditions. Additionally, community programs, team-building games, discussions, group singing, and campfires are integral parts of camp life. Various projects, games, and competitions also add to the daily excitement.
These programs and many more opportunities await campers to help them learn new skills, make new friends, and gain a deeper understanding of their Jewish identity.
Dates 2025
Session 1: June 29 – July 11
Session 2: July 13–25
Session 3: July 27 – August 8
Session 4: August 10–22
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Frequently asked questions
Which countries participate in the camp?
Campers from over 25 countries participate in the camp annually. (Albania, Belarus, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Israel, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, Ukraine, and the USA.)
What is the international group and who can participate in it?
The international group at Szarvas Camp is a diverse and vibrant community of campers from various countries. This group offers a unique opportunity for campers to meet, share their cultural backgrounds, and explore their Jewish identity in a multicultural environment. The programs for this group are held in English, and any camper between the ages of 14 and 18 can apply to join this group. The International Group will take place during all sessions this summer.
This is also a unique opportunity to join an international group for North American High School students at the largest international Jewish camp in Szarvas, Hungary.
Why the camp is Jewish?
In the camp, we emphasize Jewish education, familiarize campers with traditions, and strengthen their Jewish identity. Children can acquire this knowledge through various programs. Additionally, they can gain insight into and try out Jewish customs and events, such as Kabbalat Shabbat (welcoming Shabbat), Havdalah (farewell to Shabbat), and optional morning prayers during the 12 days. As for meals that are provided in the camp, breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner are all kosher.
Are there any trips during the session?
Each group (except Hungarians) has a trip out on the middle Sunday of each session. The trip is organised to one of the selected destinations: Szeged (3rd biggest city in Hungary), Gyula (Aquapark) or Cserkeszőlő (Thermal bath). For the trips, campers receive a packed lunch. The group is also escorted by one or more security guards.
Additional Events
Events and activities related to the preparation of the Summer camp
and other events in partnership with local and international organizations.
The camp is a joint program of JDC and the Ronald S. Lauder Foundation. The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) is the world’s leading Jewish humanitarian assistance organization. JDC works in more than 70 countries and in Israel to alleviate hunger and hardship, rescue Jews in danger, create lasting connections to Jewish life, and provide immediate relief and long-term development support for victims of natural and man-made disasters. For more information, please visit www.jdc.org
