Every year on President’s Day Weekend, thousands of Jewish teens from around the world meet up for BBYO’s International Convention, the biggest gathering of Jewish teenagers in the world. Every year, a different BBYO region in the U.S. hosts IC. Recent locations include Orlando (2024), Dallas (2023), and Baltimore (2022). For many teens, this is the highlight of their year, but what happens at IC and why is it such a highlight for so many teens?? This guide will tell you everything you need to know, whether you’re going for the first time this year, considering going next year, or even a parent wondering what your teen can expect in Denver this year!

What to Expect

IC is an action packed weekend full of so many amazing experiences, but as a newcomer, it can be overwhelming to understand what is going on. Here’s what you can expect each day:

Thursday

• Check-in: the check-in process can be overwhelming with so many teens and lots of lines, but this is a great time to start to meet some people and get a first impression of the IC atmosphere! Once you check in, you will get to go to your room where you will meet your roommates!
• Explore: Once you have checked in and gotten settled, you will have time to explore the hotel! There will be lots happening—you'll get to meet new people, check out the lounges, and experience exciting events throughout the afternoon.
• Delegation Meetings: Each day you will have a meeting with your entire region. During this time, they will go over important convention information and you will get to check-in with people from home.
• Opening Ceremonies: IC officially kicks off with a high-energy event featuring performances, special guest speakers, and tons of spirit! This is where the excitement really begins and you’ll get to see how big IC really is!

Friday

• Leadership Labs: During LEADS Day, you’ll get to participate in hands-on workshops designed to help you grow as a leader in BBYO and beyond. Alternatively, you can take part in electing the next Grand Board of AZA and International Board of BBG by attending elections! You can also choose to attend the sports and wellness expo and play against your fellow Alephs and BBGs in your favorite sport.
• Chofesh: Chofesh is a daily free time where you get to experience IC however you want. During this time, you can explore BBYO Boulevard, purchase new clothing from IC Shuk, or hang out with your friends!
• Shabbat Celebration: During Shabbat, you’ll get to take pictures with all your friends in your Shabbat outfits before attending services and experiencing a community-wide Shabbat dinner.

Saturday

• Shabbat Morning Services: Choose from a variety of Shabbat services tailored to different styles and interests, from traditional to creative and alternative options.
• Limmud: “Limmud” is a Hebrew word meaning “to learn”. During these sessions, you will get to engage in insightful programming, including guest speakers, panel discussions, and interactive activities focused on leadership, Jewish identity, and global issues.
• Chofesh
• Havdalah: Experience Havdalah in the best way possible- at IC! End Shabbat with a meaningful Havdalah service, followed by your choice of Seperates!

Sunday

• Sightseeing: Explore IC’s host city on your assigned sightseeing track, whether you’re experiencing Denver’s scenic mountains, trying new foods, or seeing animals at the zoo and aquarium.
• Chofesh
• Block Party: Enjoy one last night of IC festivities with a night of exciting activities and the IC concert!

‍Tips for an Amazing IC

• Stay hydrated and eat well: With so much excitement at IC, it's easy to forget basic self-care. Stay hydrated and eat regularly so you can enjoy every moment.
• Plan your schedule: There’s a lot going on, and sessions can fill up fast, so make sure you know which things you want to attend, and give yourself down time too.
• Document your experience: Take pictures, get swag from the Shuk and the BBYO Boulevard, and make the most of every moment!
• Wear layers: Hotel temperatures can vary, and it can get hot with so many people in one place, so bring layers to avoid being too hot or too cold.
• Step outside your comfort zone: IC is a great place to try new things and meet new people. So make sure to take advantage of all the opportunities IC has to offer.

Packing Essentials

• Clothes: Comfy clothes, regional spiritwear, Shabbat attire, and layers.
• Reusable water bottle: Make sure to stay hydrated!
• Comfy shoes: You’ll be doing lots of walking, so make sure to bring appropriate shoes.
• Portable Charger: Your phone battery will drain quickly with all the photos and schedules, so bring a charger to stay connected.
• Snacks: Bring snacks to tide you over between meals.
• Small bag: Bring a bag to keep all your IC essentials in, from a water bottle and portable charger, to swag and merch from the Shuk.

Get Ready for the Best Weekend of the Year

IC is what you make of it, so dive in, embrace the experience, and enjoy every moment. Whether it’s your first IC or your last, this event is an opportunity to learn, grow, and celebrate Jewish life with an incredible community. See you there!