World Youth Festival 2026 in Russia

The World Youth Festival 2026 in Russia is shaping up to be one of the most exciting global youth events of the year — a vibrant, dynamic gathering of young leaders, dreamers, innovators, and global citizens. Born from an international youth movement, this festival brings together thousands of participants from around the world to connect, learn, and co-create a better future. (wyffest.com)

 Event Details

• Event Name:World Youth Festival 2026 in Russia
• Dates: September 11–17, 2026
• Location: Ekaterinburg, Russia
• Attendance: Approximately 10,000 participants and 2,000 volunteers
• Global Reach: Youth from 190 member states and dozens of regions of Russia (wyffest.com)

The week-long event is designed as an international platform for youth to explore big ideas and develop practical solutions to global challenges — from leadership and innovation to culture, sustainability, and community impact. (wyffest.com)

 Who Can Participate?

The festival welcomes young people between 14 and 35 years old, making it a truly intergenerational event for teenagers, students, emerging professionals, and young leaders.

Prospective participants are selected through a competitive process that involves an essay and a video presentation, allowing organizers to curate a group of motivated and passionate changemakers from around the world.

 What Makes the Festival Special

 Global Youth Community

This festival is about participation and co-creation — not just observation. Young people are at the center of the event, invited to share their ideas, engage in discussions, and work collaboratively with peers from across the globe. (wyffest.com)

 Inspiring Programme

The event features a rich mix of activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity:

• Trend Battles — friendly contests where experts with differing views debate pressing global topics
• TED-style Talks — powerful presentations from thought leaders and innovators
• Talk Shows — interactive conversations on current issues and perspectives
• Workshops and Cultural Activities — sessions that build skills and deepen intercultural understanding

 Regional Expedition Program

One of the unique highlights of the festival is the Regional Expedition Program. Selected participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture, history, and community life of 30 regions across Russia and the Republic of Abkhazia. This experience goes beyond traditional tourism — it’s about understanding local heritage and exploring future collaboration opportunities.

What’s Provided for Participants

The festival organizers ensure that accredited participants receive:

• Accommodation in comfortable hotels or dormitories
• Meals tailored to individual needs
• Local transfers during festival activities
• Support for accessibility and comfort (wyffest.com)

Travel to and from the venue is typically the responsibility of the participant or their sending organization, with special provisions for younger participants in some cases.

 Volunteer Opportunities

In addition to participant roles, there is a comprehensive volunteer program open to youth who are 18 or older. Volunteers are involved in planning, logistics, welcoming delegations, providing support during events, and contributing to the festival experience.

 Why It Matters

The International Festival of Youth 2026 is more than a festival — it’s a global platform for youth empowerment. It offers young people:

• A chance to connect with diverse cultures
• Opportunities to present their ideas on global stages
• Skills to build effective leadership
• Collaborative platforms to explore solutions to global challenges

By connecting young people from all corners of the world, the festival fosters dialogue, mutual respect, and shared action, shaping a generation ready to tackle the future with confidence and creativity.

 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a young leader, student, innovator, or changemaker, the International Festival of Youth 2026 offers an unforgettable experience — a week of inspiration, learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange.