26 Things We’re Excited for in 2026

Opening Day scones: That first bite is essentially a magical experience. Also: are you Team Chocolate Chip or Team White Chocolate & Strawberry?
Wearing Chacos and knowing it’s finally dress-code appropriate: Out in the wild, they’re “a choice.” At camp, they’re a lifestyle.
Frozen candy from the Candy Shoppe: Frittles. Frilkyway. FriM&Ms. We don’t make the rules; we just happily freeze them for you.
Sleeping until 8:30 a.m. on Fridays (Sleep Late!): And then heading to breakfast with your friends like it’s the most normal thing in the world. (Because at camp, it is!)
Silent Celebrate: The moment you realize you’re thrilled and can wiggle those fingers in the air (and it finally feels normal)…you’ll know you’re finally at camp.
One-piece bathing suit, Chaco, and watch tans: The official uniform of summer. The unofficial sign you’ve been outside living your life at dear ‘ole Greystone.
Hand-delivered apples to your classes mid-morning: Nothing says “I’ve arrived at Greystone” like your daily dose of 3rd period apple delivery. Or even better, when you hear the rumor: “It’s peach cart.”
Not having to start every sentence with “this one time at Greystone…”: Because you’re finally back, and you’re living the camp-life in real time.
Half-can Shastas at every picnic: It tastes like a Greystone-summer, and it feels like the only way to enjoy your caffeine fix at camp.
Pairing up your Health Hut visits with an icy pop: Somehow even not feeling well actually feels better at camp. Especially when there’s an icy pop involved.
Water misters on a hot day: You don’t know true joy until you’ve walked through that mist cloud in front of the Hostess Cabin on your way to lunch.
Dog Camp puppies: Need we say more? Which breed will it be this year? We can’t wait to meet their fluffy goodness and pretend we all don’t want to take one home.
Carnival dance contest: Time to start practicing your routine, especially that dramatic, legendary finish. This could be your summer!
No phones: The greatest gift you didn’t realize you needed until you’re two days in and feel like a new person.
Crushed ice from the ice huts: There is nothing like it. Nothing. It’s the crunch of camp.
Hearing Laura say “Welcome home” at the first assembly on Opening Day: If you know, you know. (And yes, we all eagerly await that moment!)
Running through the Banquet tunnel on that final night: Straight into the Dining Hall with your best friends, feeling like the happiest person on earth. What’s your guess on the theme for this year?
Wearing your nametag all day, every day: Including with your Sunday dress. And your bathing suit. And your pajamas. It’s not just an Opening Day accessory; it’s a camp staple.
Little Slide bathing suit wedgies: Nothing helps you pick up speed on the curvy side like a well-timed wedgie. It’s science in action.
Holding up the honey bear at the exact right moment: While belting Dining Hall songs like you’re headlining the Pageant Court stadium tour.
Mini talent shows: Enough said.
“Keep ya plates!”: The sweetest words at the end of the meal, because you know the very best dessert is about to appear.
Sunday night mini pizzas: How many can you eat? The limit does not exist. Are you team cheese or team pepperoni?
Adding a patch to your Greystone pennant: A tiny piece of felt that somehow feels like proof that you know how to do hard things (it’s true!).
Sunday sundaes: Strawberry, vanilla, chocolate…or all three? And who will get the cherry on top?
Getting to be yourself with your closest friends: This is the whole purpose, really. The laughter, the safety, the belonging, the “you don’t have to be anyone else here” feeling. It’s what makes all the other traditions shine.