Dates: Thursday, July 29, through Sunday, August 1, 2010

Location: Mission Springs Conference Center, Scotts Valley, CA
                  Click here for Directions to Camp

Registration deadline: Extended to May 31, 2010

We're happy to announce our 12th annual Ethiopian Heritage Camp! Camp will be held from Thursday afternoon, July 29th, through noon on Sunday, August 1st, at Mission Springs Camp and Conference Center, near Santa Cruz California. Join with other families touched by Ethiopian adoption as we explore the richness of the Horn of Africa. Expect to make lifelong friends and meet amazing individuals as we explore the diversity of Ethiopian culture.

The focus of Camp 2010 will be the Arts of Ethiopia in all it's various forms: music, dance, visual arts, cooking and more. We're happy to welcome many new and returning artists including royal musicians and dancers from the court of Haile Selassie, painters, sculpters, singers and instrumentalists. Families will learn traditional Ethiopian songs and dances as well as how to play traditional instruments. There will be lots of arts and crafts projects led by the various guest artists and special arts and music activities for preschool age children.

Interspersed with organized activities, families will have time to enjoy Ethiopian coffee ceremonies, browse the camp bookstore or our Ethiopian Merkato, swim in the large heated pool, play a pick up game of basketball or soccer or just relax with friends. Childcare is provided for times adult oriented presentations are underway.

The weekend culminates in the high point of camp: our closing night celebration. We will enjoy a banquet of traditional Ethiopian food and a performance by our guest artists. In addition, our children (and some brave parents) will demonstrate the songs and dances they've learned. Be sure to bring your Ethiopian clothing to wear this night. Some clothing will be available for purchase in the Merkato.

You can download the the Program Booklets from previous years below. These booklets show that year's speakers and presenters as well as the daily schedule of events.

2007 Camp Program Booklet             2008 Camp Program Booklet             2009 Camp Program Booklet

For the 6th consecutive year our camp will find its home among the towering redwoods of coastal California. The Mission Springs facilities include a spacious lawn, playgrounds and meeting rooms. All meals are included. You can take a virtual tour of the facilities, grounds and accommodation options on the Mission Springs web site. There are 4 levels of accommodations available that range from rustic cabins with bunk beds and shared baths to hotel room like comfort. Room size is varied and can accommodate up to 7 people. Cribs are available.

We hope to see you in July!!

Program Costs

Lodging Options

Register Online

Download the Registration Packet