Join us in celebrating young people connecting with nature in Protected Areas on the 15th of September 2026!
European Youth in Parks Day 2026: Parks after Dark!
“Young voices, strong roots for nature’s future.”
When young people are empowered not only to speak up for nature but also to take action, they help weave stronger bonds between healthy ecosystems and thriving communities. Providing opportunities for youth to learn, lead, and work directly on restoration projects—from planting native species to reducing threats—helps their ideas take root and grow into lasting change. By nurturing their potential and equipping them with practical skills, we can restore ecosystems and strengthen biodiversity while cultivating a generation of dedicated nature stewards.
This event and theme were developed together with the EUROPARC Youth Council. They aim to emphasize the significant role that young people play in nature conservation and restoration. By providing a platform for Youth+ groups to share their work, this initiative seeks to inspire further action and strengthen youth engagement in protected areas. We look forward to seeing the inspiring restoration efforts led by young conservationists across Europe.
Check out the Trello Board for all the information you need such as check lists, registration links and a social media pack!
Trello BoardHere is a quick overview on how you can get involved!
1. Youth Advocacy:
Block the 15th of September in your park’s social media calendar and make some noise about the great opportunities you currently have for children and youth in your park. Consider sharing some stories about young people volunteering in the park or interviewing some young apprentices or volunteers!
- Post on the 15th September
- Tag us using the handle @europarc.youth (available on Instagram and Facebook)
- Use the hashtag #StrongerWithYouth and #YouthInParksDay
Potentially also link to the theme, by talking about the impact of light pollution on young people, such as the lack of access to dark skies or the shifting baseline syndrome when it comes to knowledge and access to clear skies.
2. Youth Activation:
Plan an event the weekend before or after for young people to volunteer in nature restoration activities and be sure to promote it through local media outlets. Some fun ideas include camping, astronomy workshop, moth trapping, or night time soundscape activities.
- Register it with us and put it on the map
- Consider making a short film or reel and submit via this form to be featured by EUROPARC
- Tag us using the handle @europarc.youth (available on Instagram and Facebook)
- Use the hashtag #StrongerWithYouth and #YouthInParksDay
- Email us your best photo for the photo competition (see more at the bottom of the page)
3. Youth Leadership:
If you already have an active local youth group like (but not limited to) Junior Rangers and Youth+, then invite them to take over the planning for an event that fits their needs!
- Register it with us and put it on the map (coming soon)
- Consider making a short film or reel and submit via this form to be featured by EUROPARC (coming soon)
- Tag us using the handle @europarc.youth (available on Instagram and Facebook)
- Use the hashtag #StrongerWithYouth and #YouthInParksDay
Registration coming soon
The European Youth in Parks Day is made possible through funding of the LIFE Programme. Views and opinions do not necessarily reflect that of the European Commission or of CINEA.