World Youth Day

The next World Youth Day will be
hosted by Seoul, South Korea in 2027

What is World Youth Day?
World Youth Day is an international gathering of Catholic young people (typically ages 16-30) from around the world held approximately every 2-3 years in varying host countries. It began with Pope St. John Paul II in 1984 as an outreach to the youth of the world and an invitation to an encounter with the Pope and other young people. Both Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis have continued this encounter with the youth, most recently with Pope Francis in Lisbon in 2023.

Where is the next
World Youth Day?

World Youth Day
The next World Youth Day will be hosted in Seoul, South Korea.

When is the next
World Youth Day?

The next World Youth Day will be in 2027.
Photo: Ethan Doyle White, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What was the theme for
World Youth Day 2023?

The theme for this WYD 2023 is “Mary arose and went with haste.” This comes from Luke 1:39, just after the Annunciation when Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth.

Sample Itinerary

Before World Youth Day
In the days leading up to World Youth Day, (starting typically 4-6 days before), various dioceses around the host country welcome youth from around the world for what are known as Days in the Dioceses – an opportunity for interaction with local churches and an introduction to the culture of the region. Sometimes pilgrims are hosted in families, other times in churches. Catechetical sessions and other events are held during these days.
A Typical Schedule
Day 1: Official welcome and opening Mass celebrated by local bishops.
Day 2: Catechetical sessions (by language groups) for teaching about the faith from various bishops. Afternoon/evening cultural, musical, prayer, and reconciliation opportunities.
Day 3: Catechetical sessions and the Pope’s arrival to the city. He welcomes pilgrims during an afternoon prayer service. Additional evening activities available.
Day 4: Catechetical sessions (by language groups) for teaching about the faith from various bishops. Afternoon cultural, musical, prayer, and reconciliation opportunities. Evening Stations of the Cross with the Holy Father.
Day 5: Walking pilgrimage to the Vigil site, evening Vigil with the Pope.
Day 6: Closing ceremonies including the concluding Mass celebrated by the Pope with the announcement of the location of the next WYD.
Note: There are often special additions to the schedule based upon the location and activities available. WYD in Lisbon may include a day trip to Fatima and/or Santarem, or these sites could be added to a pre-/post- pilgrimage extension.

Frequently Asked Questions