Ayandeh Youth summer programs 2026

Ayandeh’s new summer programs uses an identity-centered, arts-based approach that integrates storytelling, cultural exploration, and creative expression to help youth engage with their Iranian heritage in personally meaningful ways. Through a reflective workshop, collaborative activity, and multimedia experience, participants build community while developing a deeper, more nuanced understanding of themselves and the diversity of the Iranian diaspora.

2026 Summer Programming Registration is OPEN!

NYC

Full DAY│August 2, 2026

Rising 7th graders to recent high-school grads

Tuition: $150 USD per camper

A full day of cultural workshops, a hands-on art project, and community building. 9:00 am to 7:30 pm, meals included.

Register for NYC Day Camp

DMV Area

HALF DAY│July 26, 2026

Rising 7th graders to recent high-school grads

Free for all, space is limited

A hands-on introduction to the art and history of Iranian block printing. Participants learn about linocut's deep roots in Iranian culture and carve and print their own design to take home.

Register for DMV Workshop

Summer 2026 THEME:

Art As Resistance

Secure your spot for NYC CAMP
Secure your spot for DMV Workshop

  • Meals and Snacks

    For NYC’s Day camp, breakfast, lunch, and dinner reflecting Iranian traditions are provided. For the DMS’s half-day workshop, lunch will be provided.

  • Activities

    Campers participate in a hands-on arts workshop and get to take their creations home.

  • Workshops

    Our counselors lead compelling workshops on identity, art, and storytelling.

  • Life-Long Connections

    Campers bond with each other and their counselors through meaningful conversations.

  • Camp Swag

    Participants take home a t-shirt, tote bag, and other goodies to remember their day.

FAQs

  • The registration fee for Ayandeh’s Day Camps in New York is $150 USD per camper. This covers a full day of activities, three meals and snacks, and Ayandeh swag to take home.

    There is no fee for the half-day workshop in the DMV, but space is limited and pre-registration is required.

    We want camp to be available to all. If your family requires financial support, please reach out to us at camp@ourayandeh.org.

  • Our summer programs are designed for youth from rising 7th graders to recent high school graduates. Ayandeh welcomes anyone who self-identifies with or wants to build community with the Iranian diaspora. No knowledge of Farsi (Persian) or preexisting connection to the Iranian heritage is required. Programming is in English and all cultural references are explained and translated. While our camps are open to all youth between 7th and 12th grade, our camps are located in the United States and international participants may need to obtain a visa to attend.

  • Summer programming in 2026 are planned for the New York, NY and Washington, DC regions. For safety reasons. participants must secure their spot before receiving the exact locations.

  • Families must coordinate their own drop-off and pick-up. Workshops, activities, and meals will take place in one location.

  • For the NYC Day Camp, breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided. For the DMV workshop, lunch will be provided. We also provide snacks throughout the day. Campers with dietary restrictions should email camp@ourayandeh.org at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure accommodations.

  • We aim to provide an exciting and dynamic experience for our campers that centers grounding, community, and cultural celebration.

    Quick Glance at the NYC Day Camp:

    • The day begins with breakfast and introductions with counselors.

    • Then campers move on to a workshop on culture, identity, and heritage. 

    • Before you know it, it will be time for lunch and afterwards campers will have time to socialize.

    • Then we will move onto an art workshop rooted in Iranian traditions. Campers will learn about the history of linocut, then have time to make their own creations.

    • We end the day with a catered Iranian dinner, during which campers have time to socialize, reflect, and say their goodbyes.

    Quick Glance at the DMV Workshop:

    • The day begins with light refreshments and introductions with the workshop facilitators.

    • The participants move onto an art workshop rooted in Iranian traditions. Participants will learn about the history of linocut, then have time to make their own creations.

    • The day ends with a catered Iranian lunch, during which participants have time to socialize, reflect, and say their goodbyes.

  • Due to financial and administrative barriers, we made the decision not to host our sleep-away camp and instead focus on manageable and meaningful day camps in multiple cities. Please donate to help us bring back our overnight summer camps.