HISTORY
Explore the Origins and Legacy of the Baltic Jamborees
The history of Baltic Jamborees dates back to the 1930s, when the first scout gatherings took place in the Baltic countries before the Soviet occupation. Even during the occupation, scouting and guiding continued in secret, and after the fall of communism, the movements were fully restored. In 2005, the guiding and scouting organizations of the three Baltic states decided to strengthen their cooperation by organizing the Baltic Jamboree camps on a rotating basis. These camps are held approximately every four years, with the responsibility passed on to the next country after each event. So far, the jamborees have been held twice in Latvia, twice in Lithuania, and once in Estonia. By 2026, the rotation will have completed its second full cycle. The 2005 agreement to enhance cooperation has been actively upheld, and the tradition remains strong. The Baltic Jamboree has become a well-known and anticipated event for guiding and scouting youth, forming an important part of their Baltic identity.
Kuldīga, Latvia
The first Baltic Jamboree took place in 2006 in a forest near Kuldīga, Latvia, with around 140 participants from six countries. In addition to participants, there was an International Service Team (IST). The camp was organized over nearly two years, during which representatives of the three scout organizations met regularly, discussed key topics, planned the program, divided responsibilities, and returned home until the next meeting.
Telšiai, Lithuania
The second camp was held in 2010 in Telšiai, Lithuania, with approximately 200 participants from seven countries. For the first time, the camp had an official name – Amber Way – referring to the region’s prized natural resource. The theme connected Baltic cultures and guiding-scouting traditions through skill-building, mutual learning, cultural excursions, and an adventurous night hike.
Tagametsa, Estonia
The third jamboree was held in 2015 in Tagametsa, Estonia, bringing together about 600 participants from nine countries. Located at Estonia’s scout centre near the Tagametsa Jahiloss, the camp carried the theme Ancient Olympic Games, offering Olympic-themed challenges, ancient crafts, campfires, dance evenings, and immersive nature experiences.
Ezernieki, Latvia
The fourth camp took place in 2019 in Ezernieki, Latvia, with around 650 participants from nine countries. The theme, The Jump, honored the peaceful Baltic Way protest of 1989, which united the three nations. The program focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, promoting teamwork and shared values through collaborative activities.
Naisiai, Lithuania
The fifth Baltic Jamboree was held in 2022 in Naisiai, Lithuania, gathering about 670 participants. The camp took place in a culturally rich small town known for its symbolic and ritual landscapes. The theme Back to the Balts explored various historical and cultural eras, with each day dedicated to a different period, offering a vivid and educational camp experience.
Discover the Legacy with Us
Be part of Baltic Jamboree in 2026 in Estonia.