Al-Bustan Camp is an Arabic language and cultural day camp where children and youth develop new language skills and appreciate Arab arts and culture while making new friendships and exploring nature. Open to children and youth of all ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds, “Al-Bustan”, Arabic for “The Garden”, encourages dialogue, respect, understanding, and celebrates diversity.
Participants do not need to know Arabic to participate, but must be interested in learning the language. Since understanding culture is a critical part of learning another language, immersion in cultural activities is an integral part of the camp experience.
Al-Bustan Camp was launched in July of 2002 at the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. In 2006, Al-Bustan Camp celebrated its fifth year and relocated to a new site at Springside School in the Chestnut Hill area of Northwest Philadelphia.
Al-Bustan Camp brings children and youth together with educators, artists, and professionals of different ages, ethnicities and religious faiths. This creates a camp culture that allows each participant to grow through unique social dynamics that develop over the three weeks of camp. The surrounding natural setting of the adjacent Wissahickon Creek Valley enhances and shapes the campers’ sense of curiosity, playfulness, and cooperation, while allowing time for solitude and reflection in-between collective activities.
Each year, a different theme integrates the various program areas. In 2011, campers will explore the arts, culture, and environment of Lebanon. Past themes have included learning about the United Arab Emirates, Arab contributions to the sciences through the story of Ibn Al-Haytham, Palestinian arts and culture, Andalusia through the story of Ziryab, Egypt through the story of Um Kalthoum, the Silk Route and traditional Arab souks, 14th century traveler Ibn Battuta, the olive tree, the folktale character Juha, and Kalila Wa Dimna stories.
See Recent POSTS ABOUT CAMP:
- Teen Campers' Video: Through the Camera's Eye
Video produced by teenagers at Al-Bustan Camp, facilitated by media educator Suzy Salamy.
- Al-Bustan Camp 2011 in Videos
View a series of short videos highlighting daily activities at camp.
- New Blog Launched by Al-Bustan
Take a look at compelling blog posts by Al-Bustan Camp teachers and staff!
- Showcasing Campers' Talents
Al-Bustan Camp performance was a beautiful display of campers' talents and rich cultural heritage of Lebanon.
- July 28, 2011: End-of-Camp Performance and Exhibit
Join us for End-of-Camp Performance and Exhibit on July 28, 6-8pm.
- May 7, 2011: Al-Bustan Camp Reunion
Join us for 10th Anniversary Reunion, 3-6pm at Fort Washington Park.
- Camp Counselors in Haverford College News
Camp Counselors are featured in Haverford College newspaper.
- Navigating Through Art
Read reflections by visual artist Tremain Smith about teaching art at camp.
- Al-Bustan Camp 2010 Overview
See video with photo highlights of Camp 2010, and video clip of Emirati folk dance, plus claymation video!
- Al-Bustan Camp 2010: First Week In Action
Find out what's going on in first week of Al-Bustan Camp 2010.
