European Youth Congress & Reformation Tour
Switzerland, France, Italy, to Spain
The heartbeat of Europe’s Adventist youth will gather for a life-changing moment of faith, purpose, and mission at the European Adventist Youth Congress 2026 – and you are invited to join! Under the inspiring theme MADE FOR MORE — Belonging. Believing. Becoming, AYC26 invites a new generation to embrace the fullness of life God designed for them through worship, learning, praying, and dreaming.
Your journey will begin with a mini Protestant Reformation Tour through key sites in Switzerland, Italy, France, and Spain — where courage, conviction, and faith once challenged the darkness and lit flames of reform. Walking in the footsteps of believers who stood for truth at great cost, you’ll discover that the call to faithfulness did not end in the 16th century — it continues today, in you.
The tour also includes sightseeing in the French Alps and other European cities, giving you time for discovery, learning, and fun.
European Adventist Youth Congress 2026
The Adventist Youth Congress (AYC) is the largest gathering of Adventist youth across Europe—a powerful moment to unplug from the noise of everyday life and plug into God. It’s a space to recharge your spiritual life, rediscover purpose, and be inspired to live your faith with courage and joy.
Join thousands of like-minded young people who share your values, your passion, and your mission. Through worship, teaching, prayer, and fellowship, you’ll experience renewal, authentic community, and a deeper walk with Christ—together as one Adventist family.
Valencia already holds a special place in our hearts. Having hosted the European Adventist Youth Congress in 2017, the city remains unforgettable to many as the setting of a deeply blessed and Spirit-filled experience. In 2026, we return—expectant, united, and ready for more.
Location:
Av. de les Fires, s/n, Pobles de l’Oest, 46035 València, Spain
Congress Theme:
Subthemes:
Keynote Speaker:
Pastor Simon Gigliotti, Youth Director for the Greater Sydney Conference. Simon is passionate about discipling young people to follow Jesus and unlocking their potential to serve in God’s kingdom.
Evening and Sabbath morning speaker:
Pastor Damian Chandler, born in Toronto and raised in Barbados, encountered Jesus at 16 through the prayers of believers meeting in his home. He has since served in churches across the U.S.—from Seattle to Huntsville to Sacramento—and currently serves as associate youth director for the South-Central Conference, planting a new church in Nashville. A gifted storyteller, he authored The Crooked Christmas Tree and I Am Jon, inspiring many through his simple, relatable view of the gospel. Above all, Damian treasures his family, his wife Tanzy, and their children Zoe, Salem, and Levi.
Morning speaker (teaching style):
Ivana Mendez holds an MA in Education from the Matej Bel University, Faculty of Humanities in Slovakia, and an MA in Theology (New Testament) from the Friedensau Adventist University (Newbold College). She worked as a teacher, translator, project manager in the Slovak Bible Society, pastor in the South England Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and in the Scottish Mission. Currently, she is a lecturer of biblical languages and in biblical studies at Newbold College of Higher Education.
Daily Program
This is a sample of the daily program. When the whole program becomes available, it will be published here.
You were Made For More — and Europe is calling!
Itinerary Overview
Mon, Jul 27
Overnight flight
flight from USA to Geneva, Switzerland Int’l Airport (GVA)
Tue, Jul 28
Adventist College at Collonges-sous-Saleve
Arrival at Geneva. Dinner. Orientation. Overnight in France.
Wed, Jul 29
Geneva Reformation Walking Tour
Step back into the heart of the Protestant Reformation with a captivating walking tour through Geneva, the city that became its spiritual capital. Explore iconic landmarks tied to John Calvin, the Huguenots, and the movement that reshaped Europe. Highlights: Reformation Wall, St. Pierre Cathedral, Calvin’s Auditory, Calvin’s Street & Fountain, Calvin’s house (where it stood), Int’l Museum of Reformation, city tour, Jet d’ Eau, and more. Overnight in France.
Thu, Jul 30
Chamonix & the Mer de Glace Adventure
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps in Chamonix, nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. Ride the historic Montenvers Cog Railway as it climbs to 6,276 ft, offering panoramic views of towering peaks and glaciers. At the summit, marvel at the Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier, and explore its fascinating ice cave and visitor center. Walk around the historic center of Chamonix. Overnight in Italy.
Fri, Jul 31
Journey into the rugged beauty of the Italian Alps and uncover the inspiring story of the Waldensians—the “People of the Book” who stood firm in their faith through centuries of persecution. Highlights: College of the Barbs, Chanforan Monument commemorating the Waldensians’ embrace of the Reformation, step inside the evocative Cave Church, Monumento di Sibaud, honoring the Waldensians’ historic oath of resistance and faith. Overnight in Italy.
Sat, Aug 1
Worship in a historic Chiesa Valdese. Meet with Italian Adventists over lunch. Depart for a scenic drive through the Italian & French Alps. Overnight at the charming city of Aix-en-Province, France renowned for its elegant boulevards, fountains, and vibrant cultural life.
Sun, Aug 2
Departing Aix-en-Provence for a journey through the heart of French Reformation history. Our first stop is Merindol, a village forever linked to the Waldensian story. Enjoy a historic walking tour. Next, travel to the fortified medieval town of Aigues-Mortes, and explore its imposing castle walls, picturesque streets, and learn about its role in France’s religious past. Savor a relaxing lunch before continuing your scenic drive toward Barcelona. Overnight in Spain.
Mon, Aug 3
Spend the day in Barcelona – a city that tells the story of centuries of Christian heritage woven into vibrant contemporary life. Wander through the Gothic Quarter, with its narrow streets and hidden plazas. Stand before the Barcelona Cathedral, a medieval Gothic landmark. Marvel at the visionary Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, rich with biblical symbolism and Christian themes. Park Güell – a colorful, imaginative park where architecture, nature, and artistic expression come together, offering panoramic views of the city. Overnight in Spain.
Tue, Aug 4
Valencia
Departure for Valencia. Settle in at the hotel and prepare for opening night of the Congress. Overnight in Spain.
Wed-Sat Aug 5-8
Adventist Youth Congress sessions
Sun, Aug 9
Departure to the USA from Valencia (VLC) [your departure flight must be after 9:00 AM]
Tour Pricing
| Venue - Occupancy (per person) | Triple/Qdpl | Double |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Package – 14 Days |
$2,200 USD |
$2,400 USD |
|
Tips |
$50 USD |
$50 USD |
Bring the Bible alive in GREECE!
Start the journey in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Walk the ancient Via Egnatia – the very road Paul walked on!
Visit Philippi – the Forum, the prison cell, and Lydia’s baptismal site.
Visit the birthplace of Alexander the Great.
Enjoy a folk show with regional Greek costumes.
Olive oil and Olive tasting, and Vegetarian Greek cooking demonstration.
Discover the ancient Oracle of Delphi and contrast to the certainty of Bible prophecy.
Tour modern Athens – the Stadium, host of the 2004 Olympics, the Parliament, the Academy. Enjoy a folk-dance performance. Stroll through the streets of Plaka.
