Thematic Park

 

The thematic park "deubted" in 1997 at the National Catholic Youth Conference in Kansas City as an add-on to the standard programming of workshops and keynotes. It featured interactive learning and service stations along with arts and crafts, games, music, and other recreational experiences. The thematic park is now an integral part of the NCYC program.

Port Discovery

Your 2007 NCYC experience will not be complete until you put into Port Discovery! Port Discovery is the title and theme of this 200,000+ square foot interactive venue and host to more than 150 exhibits and experiential areas.

As you enter Port Discovery plot your course and discover our traditional exhibitors as well as interactive and experiential exhibits from Saint Mary’s Press, Catholic Relief Services, Catholic Campaign for Human Development, Christian Foundation for Children and Aging, and Souper Bowl of Caring. Continue your voyage by checking out Net Works! our technology lounge sponsored by Faith Streams Network. Net Works! is a great place to hang out, drink some coffee, check e-mails, and catch up on the latest technology.

As you cross the river and head towards Port Discovery’s Town Square you will find our college park, service, games, and vocations areas. In the college park area you will have the opportunity to explore the ins and outs of college life as well as have exhibitors on hand to share with you the uniqueness of life on various college campuses. Our service area is “Christmas in Columbus”—be sure to drop off your donation item(s) of books and toys for children and teens in this area. Take some time to make Christmas cards for our military and wrap some of the donated gift items. As you enter into “Adventure Land,” our games and vocations area, be ready to navigate through the climbing wall, sumo wrestling, quad bungee run, and more. Spend some time with representatives from various religious communities and discover how God has called them to serve in this world.

Be sure to steer your way back out of the hall and head upstairs to check out “The Way Café” where you can listen to the music of popular and up-and-coming artists as they share their gift of music with NCYC. There will be plenty of room to hang out, grab a bite to eat, play some games, meet new friends, and do some serious trading of items! The Way Café will also feature five special “spiritandsong.com By Request” concerts hosted by artists you won't want to miss and featuring up-and-coming artists you should meet.

Exhibitor Listing