Still have a few questions about the festival? Well then have a read through the FAQs below!
When will the festival take place?
The Summer Festival takes place each year in August!
Where will the festival take place and how do I get there?
We hope that it will take place at Clongowes Wood College, Clane, Co.Kildare. There are free buses from various locations around the country. To book your place on the FREE BUS you MUST contact the relevant bus contact (booking online DOES NOT book your place on the bus.)
What happens at the Youth 2000 Summer Festival?
The Youth 2000 Summer Festival is full of variety. The festival includes inspiring talks, music, prayer, concert, workshops, dramas, share groups, reconciliation and healing service and Mass. It is a packed program but there is also time for chatting, sitting, relaxing, soccer and generally chilling out.
Who can attend this?
This is a youth event, so we strictly limit the age profile to those between 16 – 35 years who wish to attend. If you are over 35, this festival isn’t really for you although we do always need mature volunteers to help with the running the festival. If you’re interested in coming along to help in some way, please contact the National Office on 01 6753690 to discuss this matter further. Any prospective volunteers need to be Garda vetted and referenced checked.
I am under 18, how do I book?
If you are under 18, please register online on the main Summer Festival page. Follow the simple procedure and at the end of this process you will be shown a parental consent form, please print this off, get it signed by your parent/guardian and present it to the Under 18 registration desk when you arrive at the event. This strictly applies for 16 & 17 year olds only. If you are under 16, unfortunately you cannot attend this event. Please bring ID and proof of age cards with you. You must have valid ID and parental consent form in order to gain entry.
What do I need to bring with me?
You will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow and maybe some ear plugs with you! Just bring the usual stuff you would normally bring if you were heading away for a weekend – towels, toothbrush etc. Showers will be provided on site. Dress warmly too as the evenings can get a little chilly!
What kind of accommodation is available?
We are providing basic accommodation for all retreatants. All accommodation is inside the College, real beds in dormitories and airbeds in other rooms. There will be separate accommodation for guys and girls; it will also be communal so bring a sleeping bag and a pillow!
What type of food will be available?
We will do our best to provide for special dietary needs. Bring additional special foods with you too if you have a special requirement. All meals will be scheduled into the timetable, so you’ll have to get up on time for your breakfast!
I have special dietary needs, can these be catered for?
We will be able to provide a vegetarian option and will be able to provide separate meals for coeliacs. Please bring some of your own specialised food with you too!
Is this just something for Catholics?
It’s not JUST for Catholics, but it is a Catholic youth event. All youth are welcome, whatever your faith background.
How do I get to Clongowes?
You can make your own way down at your own convenience, but there will also be free buses going to the festival from all around the country. Booking for free buses going from a town near you will open soon – sign up for our newsletter here to keep up to date!
Where do I go when I arrive at Clongowes?
Registration! At the registration area you will get your festival pack for the weekend and find out where you will be sleeping.
What kind of facilities will be available at the Festival?
There will be shower and toilet facilities of course, and all meals will be provided.
What is the schedule?
The Summer Festival runs from Thursday afternoon to Sunday afternoon. The Festival starts with registration on Thursday and the programme runs until about 10.30pm. The retreat programme starts early on both Friday and Saturday morning and runs until late. The programme starts early on Sunday morning and ends on Sunday afternoon at about 3pm. Full details of the programme will be available in due course.
I can only come for part of it, is this okay?
Yes, you are welcome to join us at any stage over the weekend. It is very important that you book online anyway, regardless of how long you plan to stay for, so that we know you are coming.
I do not know anyone, is this okay?
Yes, please come along! The vast majority of newcomers do not know anyone and they have a great time. We are a friendly bunch and you will be made most welcome!
How much will it cost?
This festival is donation only, so it won’t break the bank. You can give as much or as little as you can afford, all done anonymously. The festival costs Youth 2000 €85 per person to run for the weekend. If you genuinely cannot afford to donate much, please do come along anyway and do not let money be an obstacle. Donate what you honestly can afford.
To donate online, please click here!
Who can I contact for further information?
The Youth 2000 Office on 00 353 (1) 675 3690 or email: office@youth2000.ie
Can I see what previous Youth 2000 festivals have been like?
Yes! Have a look at the highlights of a previous Youth 2000 Summer Festivals below!