What Is Evening Program?

At Falling Creek, the day doesn’t end when afternoon activities wrap up. Each evening, campers come together for Evening Program — a unique time for fun, connection, and growth before bedtime. It’s more than just a chance to run around; it’s where campers practice the values that make Falling Creek special, especially the Warrior Spirit from our Falling Creek Code.

The Warrior Spirit means living with courage, always giving your best, strengthening your body, mind, and spirit, and persevering through challenges.

Evening Programs are designed to inspire exactly that. Whether it’s a team relay, a camp-wide scavenger hunt, or classic games like Multiball or Taco Cat, campers are encouraged to take risks, support one another, and keep pushing forward — even when the game gets tough or unexpected twists come up.

Mission Impossible: Floor Is Lava

For example, during a recent Mission Impossible themed night, campers worked together to use items that were supplied to their group to secure a path across the gym floor — because the floor was lava. No body parts or supplied items could touch the floor in this event or the entire team would be burned!

This lively challenge pushed campers to strategize, communicate, and persevere while having a blast.

At the start of the game, many voices were chiming in with thoughts and ideas. As the game wore on, the strongest ideas emerged.

“Reduce the elevation changes! It’s causing too much trouble.”
— Nolan C., returning camper

Nolan, one of the oldest in his group, hung back at first. But eventually he could be heard giving advice that helped his team pick up the pace.

“Counselors are there for encouragement but should avoid helping!”
— Whitt, counselor in charge of the Program Activity

Why It Matters

Evening Programs unite the whole camp community. While campers choose their daily activities, evenings bring everyone together — whether in cabin lines or as one big group — to share in friendly Green vs. Gold competition. It’s a chance to build friendships, celebrate teamwork, and create memories under the fading daylight.

“EPs (Evening Programs) build camaraderie. Those moments when the whole cabin comes together and the boys find the fire inside of them — the LION. They get the freedom to run, laugh and compete with all their heart.”
— Webby, Betula Counselor

This time of day is especially important for our newer campers, who might still be adjusting to camp life. Evening Programs give them a safe, joyful space to try new things, find their courage, and feel connected. Campers who show up nervous or unsure often leave the evening laughing, energized, and proud of what they accomplished.