🧭 Guides for counselors
How to Plan a Camp Evening Program, Step by Step
A practical guide to planning an evening program that works - picking the format, writing the script, sharing out roles, setting the scene and having a plan B.
By Equipo de La Libreta · · 2 min read
The evening program is what campers remember most about camp — and what makes the staff team most nervous. The good news: an evening program that works doesn't depend on a big budget but on following a method. These are the steps we use.
1. Start with the goal, not the idea
Before deciding "let's do a pirate night", ask what the group needs that evening. Is it the first night and they need to get to know each other? Have they had three busy days and need something calm? Is it the last night and time for emotions? The goal decides the format.
2. Pick the right format
- Game show: teams, challenges and a scoreboard. Great for energy.
- Theatre or trial: the group creates and performs. Great from the second night, like The Great Moon Trial.
- Spooky or mystery: excitement and bonding. Take great care with age.
- Campfire: songs, stories and calm. Perfect for the last night.
3. Write a one-page script
An evening without a script drags, repeats itself and loses pace. Write on a single sheet: the story in three sentences, the sequence of moments with timings, who does what and what gear each part needs. If it doesn't fit on one page, it's too complex.
4. Share out roles among the staff
Besides the characters, you always need three behind-the-scenes roles: the host (keeps time), the carer (watches for anyone overwhelmed, going to the bathroom or left out) and the tech (gear and lighting). Assign them by name at the staff meeting.
5. Set the scene with little
Atmosphere multiplies the effect of any evening. Three things are enough: different lighting (lanterns, flashlights with colored paper), an entrance sound (a song, a drum) and a centerpiece (a judge's table, a chest, a fire). Don't spend on sets you'll only use once.
6. Always have a plan B
Decide the rainy-day space and which parts change. Also prepare a backup in case things finish early: a well-known song or a quick game like Elephant, Palm Tree, Toaster.
7. End well and evaluate
The ending is what people remember: a song, group applause or a moment of silence. The next day, spend five minutes of the staff meeting on what worked. To hear from campers, try The Traffic Light Check-in.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a camp evening program last?
Between 45 and 75 minutes for under-12s and up to 90 minutes for teenagers. It's better to finish with the group wanting more than to drag it out until the energy drops.
How far in advance should I plan an evening program?
Ideally have the script finished the day before and set up the space in the afternoon. Some evening activities take ten minutes to prepare, but always run through the roles at the staff meeting.
What if it rains on the night?
Every evening program needs an indoor plan B. Decide in advance which space you'll use (dining hall, multi-purpose room) and which parts change, so you aren't improvising at the last minute.
Are spooky nights suitable for all ages?
No. With under-9s, talk about "mystery" rather than "horror", keep the lights on and don't have counselors hide to jump out. Always offer an easy way out for anyone who wants to stop.
