spring break mission trips 2024

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Best Spring Break Mission Trips in 2024: A Complete Guide

Whether you’re a college administrator, youth pastor, or simply a parent looking to engage your family and friends in something meaningful, spring break mission trips might be just the right fit for your group. At Experience Mission, we think spring break is the perfect time to unplug from academics and commit to learning to love and serve others like Jesus.

Why go on a Spring Break Mission Trip?

Spring break mission trips are a meaningful way to unplug from the daily grind of school, work, and life. While it may seem counterintuitive to use vacation time for service, we’ve found a week of putting others first and refocusing your faith can be exactly what students need to rest and unplug from school and finish the school year well. So, whether you’re planning your alternative spring break or putting together a team of middle school or high school students, we’ve compiled a list of the best spring break locations for everyone.

How many people can go on Spring Break Trips?

For Experience Mission trips, most locations require a minimum of 6-10 people and a maximum of 50-60 people . Interested in bringing a group of 60-100? Contact us for special arrangements.

What are the best Spring Break Mission Trip options for my team?

Choosing a location for spring break can depend on a few factors including budget, group size, and preferred distance from home. Check out our guide to choosing a location for a mission trip , or browse our best suggestions for 2024 spring mission trip locations below.

Caribbean Spring Break Mission Trips

1.  catadupa, jamaica.

Beyond the beachside resorts and adventures in Montego Bay, up a winding road filled with potholes and wandering goats, sits a vibrant and thriving church community at Christian Fellowship Church. Partner with local leaders to invest in the community in meaningful ways to make a real impact. Teams will find themselves working on building projects to improve homes, roads, and, at times, even water systems, while also spending time with local youth and truly becoming a part of the church family. While this rural Jamaican mission trip is far from a beach vacation, mission teams will find themselves refreshed by the welcoming and genuine spirit found in the Jamaican people. Check out our 5 Reasons to serve in Jamaica .

To begin your Jamaican mission experience, fill out an Interest Form today!

2.  Belize

Join a mission trip to Belize and come alongside a network of Spanish-speaking churches who are actively bringing the gospel to their communities. Whether you’re a youth group, college students, family, or group of adults, spring mission trips to Belize give you the chance to partner with local church leaders to complete building projects while also reaching out to local kids through Kids Club programs. You’ll serve alongside fellow Christians who are thriving in small towns amidst vast expanses of jungle and be able to encourage them to continue reaching their neighbors.

Interested in learning more about this community?  Fill out an Interest Form .

3.  Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has been in and out of crisis since a hurricane whipped through the U.S. island territory in 2017 with tornado-level winds, drenching the island with intense flooding, crippling communications, and decimating countless homes. In 2019, the island was struck by an earthquake swarm, displacing many families from their homes. The global pandemic slowed rebuilding and recovery and has left the territory in a fragile economic state. And now, massive flooding and blackouts from the hurricane have left thousands of households to attempt to rebuild once more. Connect with incredible local organizations on a spring mission trip to Puerto Rico . If you are looking for an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of real people in need, this will be a great spring trip for your group.

Interested in learning more about this community? Fill out an Interest Form .

Service and Learning Trips

4.  Rio Grande Valley, Texas

Go beyond news headlines and political debates. Immerse your student group in the local culture, struggles, and joy found at the U.S./Mexico border. Tour south Texas and develop meaningful relationships while partnering with local pastors who lead their congregation faithfully through daily hardships taking place in their community. Spring break groups in McCallen, TX often have the opportunity to serve asylum-seekers, immigrant and refugee communities, and put real faces and names to debates in our news media and across the country.

Would you like to engage your student group in the conversation? Fill out an Interest Form to get started!

5.  Chicago, Illinois

This trip is for those wanting to move towards a deeper understanding of poverty  and bring an awareness of the issues surrounding those living in the inner city. Many on the outside hear and see mostly negative portrayals of the inner city, which contribute to unhelpful labeling and misguided interactions. We hope to reveal the giftedness of the community through healthy, meaningful experiences that combine service, learning, and active engagement.

Want to dive deeper into life in the inner city?  Fill out an Interest Form  to get started!

6.  Rural Towns of Cuba

Go beyond history books and headlines and  travel to Cuba . Get to know local church communities who are growing and thriving. Serve alongside young churches and encourage local pastors as they seek to lead under the rule of an anti-religious, communist government. This trip will challenge what you know about “living your mission” and inspire your team to live boldly in their faith.

Interested in bringing a group to Cuba?  Fill out an Interest Form  to begin!

7. Custom Spring Break Mission Trips

At Experience Mission, we believe each group that serves with us is a partner in ministry! If you’re interested in serving in one of our other Mission Trip Communities,  contact  us to arrange a custom spring mission trip experience (where available).

View All Spring Break Locations

More Spring Break Mission Trip Resources:

How to Select a Partner Organization for a Mission Trip 3 Steps to Fundraising for a Mission Trip How To Organize Transportation for Your Mission Trip

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Find Your 2024 Mission Trip

You must have a group size of at least 6 members to join this trip. Please view the Small Team trips or call our Servicing Department for more options at 888-475-6414 .

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Spring Break Outreach 2024

#0791319 - Spring Break Outreaches

Thousands of Cru students are about to reach hearts and lives for Christ during spring break - and when you send college students to be the hands and feet of Jesus across America and around the world, God moves .

This year teams of Cru students will be trained and sent to locations all over, participating in evangelism to reach people for the gospel.

With a variety of spring break trips on the horizon and thousands of Cru students volunteering - we must finish raising the funds for the costs of organizing, providing the training, logistics, leadership, and more.

Your gift today, to support Spring Break 2024, will make a powerful, eternal impact. T he simple but amazing result:  students reached for Jesus.

Spring break will be here soon! Please pray - seek the Lord's guidance on your participation, and as He leads, respond today. Thank you.

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Mission Trips

2024 and 2025 mission trips.

Mission Discovery makes it easy to serve others all around the world. Whether you’re looking for a mission trip with your church, school, a family, or alone as an individual, there are many ways to live out your faith on the mission field. If you want more information about serving, see the trips we offer below.

Get more dates, locations and activities! Customize your trip to fit all of your needs.

Prayer Requests for our 2024 Spring Break Mission Trips

Center for great commission studies | april 19, 2024.

This week, we are sending two teams out to make disciples over their Spring Break. One team will be going to Paris, France to participate in diaspora missions among unreached West African Muslims. Another team will be splitting their time between Philadelphia, PA and Baltimore, MD to serve alongside church plants in both of these cities. Throughout the week, we ask that you would pray for these teams filled with our students and faculty, and pray that God would do a mighty work in all three of these cities. Prayer Requests Below.

Paris Prayer Requests:

• Pray for boldness for our team to share the gospel, and pray that those who will hear the gospel will repent and folow Christ.
• Pray the Lord would work in a team member’s life during this trip to further clarify God’s calling on her life and grow desires in her for ministry that align with God’s will.
• Pray for a team member’s work on this trip to be for the Lord first and foremost. Not to rely on her own strength or power, but to fully rely on the Lord in all that she does on this trip. Pray for her to remember that it is God alone who changes hearts and brings people to salvation.
• Pray for a team member’s eyes to be open and her heart to be ready for all the opportunities that the Lord provides while the team is in Paris.
• Pray that the team would be willing and open to listen and learn from what the Lord will teach them on the trip.
• Pray for the team to be fully present and be ready to be used by God.
• Pray for a team member to have genuine care and love to well up in him for the people that he is serving and sharing the gospel with.
• Pray for the team to have energy and endurance to serve well, despite the jetlag.

Philadelphia & Baltimore Prayer Requests:

• Pray for the team as they work with church plants in both Philadelphia and Baltimore. Pray that they would enourage the the church planters to continue in the good work that God set before them.
• Pray God would prepare the hearts of those on the trip, and those who the team will encounter to be impacted by Christ.
• Pray for the team to have serving hearts, as they work alongside and serve church planters and church members.
• Pray for opportunities to share the Gospel unto salvation.
• Pray for strength, endurance, and reliance on Christ for a team member’s wife, as he will be leaving her for the week with their three little ones (4, 2, and 2 months). Pray that he would balance checking on his family with being present on the mission trip.
• Pray for God’s preservation for the body and soul of our entire team.
• Pray that another team member’s wife will have peace and strength while he’s gone, amid tough life circumstances. Also, pray he would use this time on the trip wisely and maintain a good attitude throughout.
• Pray for the team to encounter a deeper calling to fulfill the Great Commission while on this trip.
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2024 Mission Trip Calendar

The 2024 Mission Trip Calendar will officially open at Midnight January 1st! Once the calendar opens we’ll be updating it as quickly as possible, but please note that changes happen quickly, especially at the beginning of the year.

Wondering which dates are open? Look for “Schedule your mission trip today!”

To reserve a date, please contact our volunteer coordinator.

December 31 – January 6

Mission Trips are closed this week.  Happy New Year!

January 7-13

First Church of Christ Glastonbury UCC (Glastonbury, CT)

Elizabeth Hall & Group (Batesville, IN)

January 14-20

Mark & Bonnie Westcott

Jerry Hollis

January 21-27

United Church of Christ in New Brighton (New Brighton, MN)

January 28 – February 3

February 4-10.

Central Atlantic UCC Conference

February 11-17

St. Peter’s United Church of Christ (Elmhurst, IL)

Susan Walters (Kennebunkport, ME)

February 18-24

Newtown Congregational Church, UCC (Newtown, CT)

February 25 – March 2

Evangelical UCC (Highland, IL)

Heidelberg University (Tiffin, OH)

Catawba College (Salisbury, NC)

March 10-16

Ely Memorial Church (Land O’ Lakes, WI) 

University of Olivet (Olivet, MI)

March 17-23

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ (St Marys, OH)

First Congregational Church (River Falls, WI)

March 24-30

Schedule your mission trip today!

March 31 – April 6

Back Bay Mission will be closed for the holiday. Happy Easter!

First Congregational (Appleton, WI)

April 14-20

Congregational Church South Dartmouth Youth

April 21-27

April 28 – may 4.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (Muncie, IN)

Jordan United Church of Christ (Allentown, PA)

CUCC Alumni Team (Arlington Heights, IL)

Protestant Cooperative Ministries at Cornell (Ithaca, NY)

May 26 – June 1

Amish Group (PA)

Share Kindness (St Louis, MO)

Avon Lake UCC (Avon Lake, OH)

First UCC (Sauk City, WI)

Kent UCC, United Youth Force (Kent, OH)

Trinity UCC (Canton, OH)

UCC Middleton, RI

June 30 – July 6

Pilgrim Faith UCC (Oak Lawn, IL)

St. Paul UCC (Chelsea, MI)

First Congregational UCC (Oconomowoc, WI)

CC of Batavia (Batavia, IL)

First Congregational Church of Geneva (Geneva, IL)  

July 28 – August 3

St. Matthew Youth Group (Southborough, MA)

August 4-10

South Central Conference UCC Youth

August 11-17

August 18-24, august 25-31, september 1-7.

Mission trips are closed this week. Happy Labor Day!

September 8-14

September 15-21.

St. Peter’s UCC (Washington, MO)  

September 22-28

Edwards Congregational United Church of Christ (Davenport, IA)

Emmanuel United Church of Christ (Sebring, FL)

September 29 – October 5

October 6-12.

  Trinity UCC (Wooster, OH)

UCC of Pittsville (Pittsville, WI)

October 13-19

Earnie Mae Christmas Charities (EMC)

October 20-26

Bethany UCC (Chicago, IL)

October 27 – November 2

First Congregational UCC (Houston, TX)

November 3-9

Bethlehem United Church of Christ (Evansville, IN)

November 10-16

St. Matthew United Church of Christ (Wheaton, IL)

St. John UCC (Kankakee, IL) 

November 17-23

North Community Church (Marshfield, MA)

November 24-30

Mission trips are closed this week. Happy Thanksgiving!

December 1-7

December 8-14, december 15-21, december 22-28.

 Mission trips are closed this week. Merry Christmas!

December 25-31

 Mission trips are closed this week. Happy New Year!

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THE HIGH SCHOOL MINISTRY OF CRU

IMAGINE SPENDING YOUR  SPRING BREAK   TRAVELING AROUND THE WORLD  TO SHARE THE GOSPEL  WITH TEENAGERS

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS

This 1-2 week trip could change your life and  have an eternal impact  on the students you connect with. Join a short-term international mission trip this spring and  see God do amazing things! 

Take a look at our trips below and  apply now  for an international mission trip with Cru!

2024 Spring Mission Locations

Dominican Republic

Mission Dates: April 11th – April 21st Mission Cost: $2,225

Mission Dates: March 23rd – 29th Mission Cost: $2,075

Spain – Granada

Mission Dates: March 7th – 17th Mission Cost: $3,375

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Spring Break Missions 2024

March 8, 2024  - 

Agape, San Luis Potosi, Mexico We are excited to partner again with Centro Cristiano Agape whom have hosted LETU students as far back as 1987. This trip gives students the chance to truly experience another culture and become family with their neighboring brothers and sisters following Jesus in their own language, culture, and context. Students work on needed construction projects and outreach in partnership with the local church staff.

Beach Reach, Texas LETU students travel down to the gulf to provide a Christian witness to fellow college students with Beach Reach! Partnering with local ministries, our students serve free pancake breakfasts, provide safe rides for spring breakers who are out all night, and share the gospel on South Padre Island.

JAARS, North Carolina Students participating in this trip work closely with JAARS staff on any aviation projects currently in process at the time of the trip.

LeTourneau for Life - East Texas Participants on this trip stay on campus for the week of Spring Break. Each day they will travel to a different Pro-Life facility/ministry to assist with special projects. Throughout the week students learn about the Pro-Life ministries in East Texas and get an opportunity to be a part of advocating for the lives of the pre-born.

LightSys Technology Services, Colorado Students used their software development skills in missions work, serving alongside LightSys as they serve missionaries and ministry organizations through technical support. 

MMS Aviation, Ohio At MMS Aviation, our students are directly involved in assisting with maintenance, modification, and repair of missionary aircraft.

Oaxaca, Mexico Students will work alongside Gracia Abundante Church on a building project to meet the needs of a local church member.

Tri-Grace Ministries, Utah LETU students partner with a college ministry engaging students in evangelical outreach as they build relationships and share the light of Christ across cultural borders in Mormon Utah.

UIM Aviation, El Paso/Tuscan/Mexico This aviation focused trip allows students to visit tribal works and airstrips in two Mexican villages, through a partnership with Ethnos 360. Additionaly students work on airplane and hangar projects under the supervision of certificated mechanics and inspectors. 

To receive daily updates from the trips including pictures and prayer points, please click here to subscribe to the newsletter. You can expect to receive daily emails from March 9 – 18 th .

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LeTourneau Student Ministries exists to promote and sponsor community ministries, campus ministries, and missions.

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Spiritual formation is a holistic experience, which shapes the mind, body and spirit of each person. Through chapel services, life groups, local and global missions opportunities, dorm life, mentorship and more, our goal is to equip students to live their faith and share God's redemptive story with the world.

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Serving with a smile: Bears pack their bags for spring break mission trips around the world

By Piper Rutherford | Staff Writer

Students who are signed up for Baylor Missions’ spring break trips will be opting out of a beach vacation this year, traveling instead to the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Amsterdam, Madrid and Japan.

Bailey Hebert, senior program coordinator for Baylor Missions , said what makes these spring break trips special is that each one was designed with a particular academic focus in mind.

“Our trips to the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica are both medically based for pre-health organization students, while Amsterdam and Madrid are accounting-based,” Hebert said. “One of our newest additions is the trip to Japan, where students have the opportunity to learn about food insecurity and how the Japanese government serves students and children in Japan facing poverty.”

Beyond academic studies, Hebert said students will have the chance to apply what they have learned in the classroom, immersing themselves in local culture and vocational practices.

“For instance, in the Dominican Republic, we have partnered with One More Child, where Baylor students will teach about topics concerning health and hygiene to the young children there,” Hebert said. “What will enhance this experience is that our students will also be shadowing a doctor from the Dominican Republic, where they will learn more about the health care system, whether that be through medicine or home visits.”

Although Hebert will not be going on one of the spring break missions this year, she said she looks forward to receiving feedback on the newer programs.

“There is one nonprofit in Madrid we are lucky to work with, whose mission is to end sex trafficking in the city,” Hebert said. “So our students’ role in helping this start-up is setting up business features for their company, as well as walking them through tax processing so that their grand opening is a little easier.”

Sarah Nelson, assistant director for global missions operations, said she is attending the Costa Rica trip and serving as one of its leaders.

“During this trip, we will be interacting with Costa Rican high school students and working on improving their conversational English,” Nelson said. “This is important since tourism is such a major part of the economy in Costa Rica, so I feel grateful to get to experience this trip.”

Although one week does not seem like much time to get familiar with a new country, Hebert said it does allow students to form closer bonds with one another.

“Last year, I went to the Dominican Republic medical trip, and it was such a cool opportunity for students planning to be doctors or those who want to go to medical school,” Hebert said. “Even though I … am not medically inclined, it was still so amazing to see Baylor students helping local doctors and seeing them in their element.”

Nelson said she appreciates the spring break missions since she not only gets to serve around the country and the world but also gets to spread love with Baylor students.

“These trips are a getaway, including going over to neighboring states like Louisiana, where I have gotten to help with cleanup after Hurricane Ida and begin the rebuilding process as a part of a disaster relief group,” Nelson said. “Missions is all about how we, those from Baylor, can make a difference elsewhere.”

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Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in may 2024.

With its pleasantly warm weather and thinned crowds, May is the perfect time to take a trip before the expensive summer season. Considering sights, weather, traveler sentiment and annual events (among other factors), U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in May. Whether you're looking for an outdoor adventure in a national park, a quick Memorial Day getaway or a leisurely beach vacation , you can't go wrong with these destinations. Vote for your favorite locales below to help determine next year's list.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Laguna beach, st. vincent & the grenadines, victoria & vancouver island, yellowstone national park.

When May comes around in Bryce Canyon National Park, the snow is nearly gone, which means the park's main road and popular trails are likely to be open. Highs are typically in the 60s during the day, too – ideal conditions for hiking and biking this Utah park's paths. Visitor numbers start to ramp up this month, but it's still early enough in the season that you're unlikely to have to jostle for a view at the popular Bryce Point, which overlooks Bryce Amphitheater, a landscape of otherworldly rock spires (called hoodoos).

This Portuguese island chain in the Atlantic Ocean offers a little bit of everything for active travelers, from geoparks and waterfall hikes to paragliding. Though the weather here is always a bit unpredictable, the chances of wind and rain are lower in May. The water temperature also begins to warm up for must-do activities like snorkeling or swimming with dolphins, and with fewer swells than the winter months, beginner surfers will feel more comfortable trying to hang ten. As an added bonus, the biggest festival in the Azores – the Feasts of Santo Cristo dos Milagres – typically occurs in May.

Travelers looking for a vacation filled with unique and heart-pumping activities should set their sights on Cappadocia. This mountainous region in central Turkey is home to a UNESCO-listed national park, centuries-old underground cities, ancient cave dwellings, magnificent rock formations and more. Plus, thanks to average temperatures in the 60s and 70s in May, activities like soaring high above the Göreme Valley on a hot air balloon tour and driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle past fairy chimneys couldn't be more pleasant.

As one of the warmest and driest times of year in Palawan, May welcomes travelers with open arms. Take advantage of the minimal rainfall by experiencing all of the outdoor activities and attractions that this Philippine island has to offer –spoiler alert, there are a lot. Spend time relaxing on Palawan's white sand beaches, island-hopping or even swimming with gentle whale sharks. Water sports are popular in this destination as well, from diving Tubbataha Reef to kayaking El Nido's Big Lagoon.  

Visiting Granada, Spain, in May is a no-brainer. Average temperatures in the mid-70s, blooming flower displays (at Generalife Gardens) and a full roster of events make this Andalusian city a must-visit in the spring. Día de la Cruz and Feria del Corpus Christi, two of the city's most popular celebrations, are both held in May, and travelers won't want to miss seeing Granada come alive with music, flamenco dancers and more. Save time during your trip for a guided tour of the Alhambra and strolling through the Albaicín neighborhood.

May falls within this Peruvian city's winter season, though you probably wouldn't notice thanks to its consistently mild temperatures (highs hover in the 60s). This month rarely sees rain showers, and you'll encounter fewer tourists at archaeological wonders like La Catedral – which sits in the restaurant- and coffee shop-filled Plaza de Armas – and Machu Picchu – a bucket list destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 50 miles northwest of Cusco. If you're up for a challenge, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This difficult trek through the area's towering mountains takes about four days to complete.

With 33 beaches, this eastern Caribbean island is a sun worshipper's dream, and May temperatures in the upper 70s and 80s are perfect for basking on its white sands . Spend warm days venturing to offshore cays, exploring fishing villages and watching yacht races during the Anguilla Regatta, typically held every May. Since this is the start of the island's rainy season, the weather can be wetter and more humid than the winter months, but visitors will be rewarded with cheaper accommodations. 

May is a great time for a trip to this seaside Spanish city before the heat and humidity become unbearable. Can't-miss architectural marvels to check out include Antoni Gaudí's whimsical Park Güell and the Gothic-style Sagrada Família. Budget time for visiting some of Barcelona's highly regarded museums, such as the Picasso Museum, and relax at Barceloneta beach before stopping at a nearby seafood restaurant for some of the best paella in the city. What's more, the city plays host to a number of events come May, including film and music festivals

Craggy coastline views, a world-famous aquarium and a superb farm-to-table dining scene draw tourists of all types to Monterey, California. Though temperatures here remain in the 60s for most of the year, rainfall drops significantly in May. Popular festivals also make this a great time of the year to visit. Come early in the month for the Pacific Grove Good Old Days Street Festival, which showcases local artisans and craft vendors, plus a variety of food booths. And near the end of the month, the three-day California Roots Music & Arts Festival celebrates reggae artists.

Visit Laguna Beach for a perfect sunny-and-70, laid-back beach vacation. May is part of this Southern California town's spring shoulder season, so you'll find fewer people on popular stretches of sand like Main Beach and Crescent Bay Beach. Plus, the quieter month is ideal for relaxation-focused activities, such as outdoor yoga and hiking. When travelers need a break from reconnecting with themselves or nature, they can check out Laguna Beach's thriving art scene, which includes hundreds of galleries, studios and public works of art.

Bright turquoise water, gorgeous white sand and lush green vegetation await vacationers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Composed of 32 islands and cays, this Caribbean archipelago is perfect for a tropical getaway. May falls between the country's peak winter season and its hurricane-prone low season, making it an ideal time for scuba diving and snorkeling in the Tobago Cays Marine Park, swimming and soaking up some rays at Canouan's beaches and hiking to beautiful waterfalls like Dark View Falls. Travelers will also want to check out the country's 20-acre Botanical Gardens, the oldest available in the Western Hemisphere.

Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, sits on the southern portion of Vancouver Island. Not only does this Canadian destination boast comfortable highs in the low 60s in May, it is just a short ferry ride from Seattle (less than three hours), making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway . Spend your visit strolling through the 55-acre Butchart Gardens, which are bursting with colorful tulips and cherry blossoms come May, then get out on the water on a whale watching tour. Before heading home, don't forget to shop for souvenirs along Government Street.

Considered the birthplace of democracy and drama, Athens boasts a historical legacy that is hard to top. The main reason to visit is to see the ancient city's impressive ruins, which you'll find at the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. For an additional look at Athens' past, check out the incredible Greek artifacts on display at the National Archaeological Museum and the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. May vacations are especially enjoyable thanks to comfortable daytime temps hovering in the mid-70s.

By late May, most of Yellowstone's trails and must-see attractions are open, welcoming eager nature enthusiasts seeking a breath of fresh air. The average 50-degree temperatures provide a brisk but comfortable atmosphere for a hike on one of the Old Faithful area's trails or a kayaking excursion on Yellowstone Lake. For a glimpse of wildlife, head to Lamar Valley to view wolf pups emerging from their dens. Keep in mind that if you visit during Memorial Day weekend, you'll likely run into crowds.

With warm weather year-round (average temperatures sit in the 80s), there's never a bad time to visit Singapore. But in May, this Asian city-state on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula welcomes events such as the Singapore Cocktail Festival, the Singapore International Festival of Arts and the Singapore HeritageFest. When you're not enjoying your time at one of Singapore's cultural events, check out top attractions like Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic nature park that is home to the Supertree Observatory and the Cloud Forest.  

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Hoover seniors volunteer in Uganda

by Jeff Wyatt

Seniors from Hoover High School and Spain Park High School, along with seniors from Evangel Christian School and Oak Mt. High School, spent some time in Uganda.

According to the Hoover City Schools District, the seniors volunteered with African Children's Mission.

• See also: Baby giraffe born at Birmingham Zoo
• See also: Parrish Narcan vending machine in need of repair

Seniors have been on similar mission trips over the past few spring break weeks.

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Ecuador Spring Break 2024 - Emily Mcquilkin-Briggs' Story

April 9, 2024

The first day we were there we got a tour of the land. It was absolutely breathtaking. Kathy informed me that the property used to be a dairy farm but they acquired the land in 2003, and have been building ever since. The children were overjoyed to see us when we arrived to the school. Many of the children were enjoying a snack outside, all the littles ran up to Abby and Savanna. Many of the children put out their hands to give us high fives. We immediately started on our work project and we were thrilled to start painting. Ava, autumn, Nora and I were working on a mural that resembled mountains. There were three more that we did in the school and they all looked gorgeous. I was amazed how well we all worked together and how it didn't even feel like work, we were all singing and laughing. Although we were all very different people we all found a bottom ground that we wanted to serve and become closer to the Lord. 

On the first night we all got to go to a casa and had dinner with the “families” We were all a little nervous and unsure with how the evening would go, being unaware of customs and having a language barrier; I didn't want to come across as rude or disrespectful. When we got there we were all welcomed and sat down. It was very quiet as the house parents served us dinner. One of the older children began talking to me and asking me questions in English. We all would laugh and I tried to speak some spanish which they understood what i was trying to say. I have never seen such happy people all together having dinner. I truly didn't want to leave. Everyone on the trip agreed that having dinner in the casas was a highlight of the trip. Language barrier didn't matter at all, you can say so much in your eyes and through a smile. Language never stopped us from having such an amazing time, this taught me so much and at the end of the day we are all people who just want to be loved and to give love. Lauren said during one of our devotions, “If we didn't know these kids had these backgrounds I wouldn't know it.” This was such a profound statement that has stuck with me when telling of my adventurousness, because it is so true. These children come from such terrible backgrounds even one their mother just left them for six months alone but yet they still find a way to dance, sing, get an education and smile. There is an over pouring of love and graciousness at this place. This place is filled with an undeniably sense of welcome and joy that can be unmatched anywhere else. Everyone is so kind, not for a single moment did I feel unwelcomed or misplaced. We were greeted with open arms and informed many times how much our presence means to them. 

On Saturday we had church in a small courtyard with a big fire to keep us warm and give us light. All the children and parents sang church songs in Spanish. Abbey had said, “its amazing to hear these songs in another language.” This was so powerful and showed the movement of christianity and Jesus. It was such a beautiful thing for all these kids to be so focused and respectful during a church service. These children truly believe and poured out their hearts. During prayer many people held on to each other and cried and mourned together. Many families held hands and thanked God for his love and mercy.

I was able to hear God so clearly more than I ever have before. I was told things I needed to hear and it revealed to me my purpose on this earth and that is to serve. Many others also realized what they wanted to do or found a talent that God has given them, everyone agreed they want to start going on more mission trips and serve in our country when a need is shown. Lauren who is a math and bible education major got offered a job at the school in Ecuador and even got to sit in during a class, she hopes to one day come back or even to open up or own home in the States. Nora is a psychology major and never wanted to work with children but now is thinking about having a job to help children who have been in traumatic situations. So many doors were open and I believe we were all changed for the better because of this trip. Thank you God for this opportunity and the good Lipscomb is doing for this world.

Emily McQuilkin-Briggs

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Adairville Baptist Youth and Kids Ministry returns from mission trip to Ecuador

ADAIRVILLE, Ky. (WBKO) - Members of the Adairville Baptist Youth and Kids Ministry recently took a once-in-a-lifetime trip over spring break. In total, 17 members spent eight days on a mission trip to Ecuador to not only spread the gospel but also learn about life at the Center of the Earth.

“The importance of knowing other cultures is just so you can understand the local people,” said Vincent Eaton. “You can understand where they’re coming from and what may be different about them but then bring our culture it’s kind of like it goes both ways like take the best from both worlds and be able to explore both sides of it.”

During their tour of the country, the group did street ministry, taught English through singing, led VBS at local schools, and conducted basketball camps.

“We also wanted to do a basketball camp down there while we were there so we could teach them about basketball,” said Britt Wetton. “So we thought that we could take some basketballs down there and we took some jerseys so they could have the jerseys to wear to play.”

They also learned a lot about what life is like in Ecuador, gaining an understanding of their culture and being good global citizens.

“We played lots of their local games and we did like we saw a native dance,” Eaton said. “We even ate Guinea pig because that’s like a delicacy there.”

Despite language barriers and a few cultural differences, the kids say that they learned that people have a lot in common despite their differences.

“Just because we’re from different countries and speak different languages, we still have a lot in common because we can still communicate with each other in different ways,” said Delaney Wetton.

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From Cedarville to Chicago: Focusing on Faith and Service this Spring Break

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Embarking on a mission trip can transform your typical academic break into an unforgettable journey of service and personal growth. I had the opportunity to return to Chicago this spring break through Global Outreach (GO) . It was my third time going on a GO missions trip. I went as a team member last spring and a team leader this past fall break. I’ll be honest, I was not sure if I was going to go on another trip this year; after last spring break, I wanted to go somewhere warm and get some R&R, but God had other plans.  

Answering the Call  

I was asked to lead a GO trip to Chicago during spring break. Despite my initial spring break plans, I felt convicted to pursue this opportunity to further God’s Kingdom. Looking back, I can’t imagine going anywhere else over break. It was a very humbling reminder of how God can use me despite my constant shortcomings.  

Off to Chicago  

The ministry in Chicago that we worked with was Inner City Impact (ICI). They work within their communities to meet the practical needs of kids and their families and show the love of Christ through service and teaching. It was such an honor to go and serve alongside them over spring break, and we had an amazing week!  

Our group of 10 Cedarville students were from all different majors and walks of life. After meeting weekly to get to know each other better and prepare for the trip ahead, we all piled into our GO vans and headed to Chicago! Even the van ride there was a great time of fellowship as a team. We arrived at ICI on Saturday around dinnertime, and we got settled in. Sunday started things off with a bang as we headed to church with the ICI staff, and we helped with the youth group after church. Sunday night and into Monday, we had an all-night lock-in with the high schoolers. This was such a blast and a great way to build connections with the kids!   

During the day for the rest of the week, we did various work projects around the facility before the kids came for the afternoon/evening. These projects included painting, sheetrock installation, HVAC work, cleaning and organizing, light work in the gym, assembling tables, computer work, and more. These service projects allowed us to help ICI further their ministry and to work more efficiently after we are gone. Honestly, while these projects were dirty and difficult at times, they were such an amazing time to work all together and to be the hands and feet of Jesus.  

In the evenings, we had club time with the kiddos, working with grades K-12 and interacting with a bunch of different groups throughout the week. The kids were definitely the highlight of the week, to be able to connect with them and just show love to them in the time we had was such a joyful experience.   

Friday night we had a family game night, so the kids that we saw throughout the week brought their families to play board games and have ice cream. This was a great success! We as a team were all able to interact with the different families and spend the evening with them.  

Saturday was probably my personal highlight; we had a Nerf war with the elementary students and, oh my goodness, what a blast!  

We headed back Sunday morning, and we all hit the ground running with classes the next day. I was definitely more tired when I got back than when I left, but the joy I experienced this week was more than worth it!  

Post-Trip Reflections  

One passage of Scripture that we focused on during our trip preparations, as well as throughout the week, was 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24. This passage is such an incredible reminder of how we are to treat others, and we were able to put that into practice all week.  

“We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.  

Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.”  

Verse 24 in particular stuck out to me throughout the week, “He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.” This verse reminded me that it is by God’s loving grace and mercy that the team and I were able to be in Chicago and serve with ICI, and no matter how tired or stressed I was, I knew that God has always been faithful. He is faithful now, and He will be faithful for all eternity. I am so thankful for the opportunity that Global Outreach allowed me to take, and I cannot think of a better way to have spent my spring break.  

This trip was an amazing and life-changing experience; there were times when I was physically and mentally exhausted, but I was able to keep going by God’s grace. The team that I had the pleasure of leading was incredible, and they all worked together as ambassadors for Christ, and they all loved well. Thanks be to God for His everlasting mercies!  

Year: Senior

Major: Biblical Studies

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Tags: #globaloutreach , #GO , #missions , #personal , #testimony Posted in: Experience , Global Outreach , Testimony

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MPH Student Harnishad Kaur Binner Shares Experience from Campus Ministry Spring Break Immersion Program

Second-year master of public health student Harnishad Kaur Binner participated in the ‘ Campus Ministry Spring Break Immersion Program ’ along with other Saint Louis University students.

Harnishad Kaur Binner and SLU students at 'Thrive for Life' in The Bronx.

Second-year master of public health student Harnishad Kaur Binner participated in the ‘Campus Ministry Spring Break Immersion Program’ along with other Saint Louis University students.

Each year, several students apply to travel over spring break to various locations in the United States for a week of immersion into a new culture and lifestyle to be people for and with others.

This year, Binner, with several other students, spent the week with ‘ Thrive for Life ’ in The Bronx, New York, with formerly incarcerated individuals, learning about the flaws in the US justice system and the issues within the prison system today.

Thrive for Life’s founder, Zachariah F. Presutti, SJ, completed his master’s at SLU in clinical social work. His mission is to positively impact the lives of individuals both within and beyond prison walls, offering avenues for education and assistance in finding employment opportunities, ultimately facilitating their successful reintegration into society. This noble work is realized through the operation of two supportive residences: Abraham House in the Bronx and Ignacio House in Manhattan. This year's group of students stayed at the Abraham House and lived amongst the other house members who were formerly incarcerated.

In preparation for their trip, the students met weekly to learn about the mission they would partake in as well as the community they would be immersing themselves in. Upon their arrival, they were shown to their housing accommodations where they would spend the next week.

Although some were apprehensive to be staying in the Bronx for a week, Binner said “The residents were very kind and welcoming towards us and helped us feel safe. They would even accompany us to get food in the neighborhood and wanted us to feel safe.”

One of the most impactful experiences was visiting Rikers Island and participating in Mass with some of the inmates. Binner and the other students were able to converse with these incarcerated individuals as well.

Binner shared that Mass participants were so excited and grateful that the students had come and were sharing in fellowship with them. The prisoners talked about those whom they missed outside of prison and talked about life before and after with the students.

Binner reflected on the trip and shared how public health is called to be involved in this work. Binner expressed the want for coursework at SLU to discuss the justice and prison system, to bring light to it, and to help educate the next force of public health professionals in this field.

Binner’s offers a piece of advice for those thinking about applying for an immersion spring break trip next year centered around issues such as the justice or immigration system.

“Be ready to hear some powerful stories that might move you emotionally. Also, be ready to handle sudden changes that can happen during the trip. Being too stuck in your ways will not help. While these experiences can be emotionally taxing, approaching them with an open mind will enable you to derive the most benefit in a healthy manner," Binner said.

If you are interested in applying for a spring break immersion trip, check out Campus Ministries website.

College for Public Health and Social Justice

The Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice is the only academic unit of its kind, studying social, environmental and physical influences that together determine the health and well-being of people and communities. It also is the only accredited school or college of public health among nearly 250 Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States. Guided by a mission of social justice and focus on finding innovative and collaborative solutions for complex health problems, the college offers nationally recognized programs in public health and health administration.

Where Lonely Planet staffers are traveling this summer

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is one of the places Lonely Planet staffers plan to visit this summer © ronniechua / Getty Images

Summer is around the corner in the northern hemisphere, and the team at Lonely Planet is already making (or has made) their travel plans.

If you're wondering where to go and what to do this summer, why not follow one of our leads and discover a new destination or rediscover an old favorite? I, unlike my colleagues, have yet to make plans, so finding out where everyone else is going has lit a fire under me. Likewise, I hope these trip plans inspire you to make some of your own – and that you'll turn to Lonely Planet for help when plotting your next getaway.

Here are just some of the places the staff at Lonely Planet traveling this summer.

"I'm going to a backcountry lodge in Banff . It's only accessible by hiking in. I’ve wanted to do one of these for ages, so this is how I’m celebrating my 40th!" – Jessica Lockhart, Senior Editor, Oceania

Banff and Jasper National Parks have several rustic backcountry lodges surrounded by unparalleled scenery. Each lodge has its own unique setting, hosts and history, but all have simple amenities, minimal (or no) electricity and running water, and welcoming common spaces where travelers can gather to read, play cards or recount the day’s adventures. Advance bookings are key – prices may seem steep, but factor in the included home-cooked meals and freedom from setting up camp or worrying about weather and wildlife, and the cost suddenly becomes worth it. 

Keen to go hiking in Canada? Here's our guide to the best trekking routes

"I will be visiting Makarska Riviera , including Brela , Makarska, Tucepi and the island of Korčula . The trip is all about promoting Croatia ’s great outdoors , so the itinerary includes kayaking, rafting, buggying and lots of hiking !" – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Croatia’s tourism peaks between June and August, when the Adriatic’s warm waters charm countless visitors. It’s great fun, though afternoons are roasting hot, the lines at attractions are at their longest, and accommodation costs rise. Inland, temperatures are higher, but crowds are less noticeable. June is the quietest month of high season, but with clear skies, music festivals and the promise of early summer, it's a strong contender for Croatia’s best month. 

Ready to plan your trip to Croatia? Choose the right time for your visit with our seasonal guide

"I'm going island hopping  in Greece for four weeks in June. I'll be spending most of my time on Serifos (to start) as it's where the local Greeks holiday  – doing a pottery class, vineyard tour, taking boats to secluded coves, going to cooking school and generally trying to be as fabulous as possible – with additional stays on Santorini and Paros . – Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Trade Sales and Marketing

Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy Aegean lapping an endless coastline and a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities. Summer is when most travelers choose to explore its countless islands, and June affords the longest days of sunshine, peaking in the second fortnight. It’s also an opportune time for your first, refreshing dip of the summer. 

Going to Greece for the first time? Here our our top tips on things to know before you go

"I'm heading to Tuscany and the island of Elba ." – Annie Greenberg, Creative Director  "We are doing a girls' trip to Tuscany." – Aly Yee, Senior Director

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy ’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around.  The island of Elba comes to life during summer, and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba offers both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

Ready to plan a trip to Tuscany?  Check out our regional guide  

"I'm off to car-free Isla Holbox , Mexico for a relaxing beach getaway. I'm planning on horseback riding and wataflow therapy, which I've never done, but should be interesting."  – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

Isla Holbox (hol-bosh), meaning "black hole" in Mayan, lives up to its name – it's like a portal to one of Mexico’s last unspoiled tropical islands. Golf carts and bicycles serve as the main forms of transportation, and visitors will discover sandy streets, colorful Caribbean buildings, lazing, sun-drunk dogs, and sand so fine its texture is nearly clay. The greenish waters are a unique color from the mixing of ocean currents, and on land there's a mixing too: of locals and tourists, the latter hoping to escape the hubbub of Cancún .

Using Cancún as a base? Here are the best day trips into the wider area

"I'm heading to Granada , Spain for a week or so, maybe getting in Málaga too. This will be my second visit, so I'm hoping to take a more relaxed approach this time and also catch up with friends." – Alison Killilea, Production Support Editor

With serene Islamic architecture, monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art, Granada is Spain’s cultured, creative southern city; a place with a storied past centering on the Alhambra , one of the world’s great human-made wonders. While Granada can be scorching in summer, the city of Málaga is deemed to have the best climate in the country, with about 3000 hours of sun a year – the most in all of Spain. 

Seen the Alhambra? Here are Granada's other top experiences

Switzerland

"I'm also going to Zürich , Lucerne , Grindelwald  and Zermatt . I will mostly be hiking and doing lots of outdoorsy activities. My number one priority while I am in Switzerland is to do the highest hiking trail in Europe , the Barrhorn."  – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it, Switzerland gets pretty darned close. With its supermodel looks, fine weather, easy-peasy public transport , multilingual mindset and penchant for cheese and wine, this is a country where it’s easy to get comfortable – even if it is a bit on the pricey side.  Peak summer in Switzerland is  tip-top , to borrow the Swiss German phrase. Barring the odd storm, it’s nearly always hot and sunny – oppressively so, sometimes, meaning the best place to be is in the cooler air of the high mountains.

Ready to experience the best of Switzerland? Here's our guide to the top things to do

The Bahamas

"I'm heading to Eleuthera  in the  Bahamas for our annual family trip – there are 16 of us so it's always an exciting week! With age ranges of 7–70, I can report that we are all excited to do a beach bonfire and barbecue, and go sailing to swim with some piggies." – Amy Nichols, Senior Marketing Manager

The sapphire waters and  sun-soaked sands  of the Bahamas beckon travelers with warm weather that never fades. Just a short flight from the east coast of the US, this island nation is a magnet for repeat visitors and last-minute bookers alike. Eleuthera, however, is a bit tougher to get to, but is well worth the expense and effort if you're looking for vacation bliss. With its pink-sand beaches, Atlantic-battered reefs, weather-warped rock and dense subtropical scrub, this incredibly narrow 109-mile (175km-long) crescent also offers boutique hotels, revered surf breaks and some fabulous restaurants. 

Can't decide where to go in the Bahamas? We can help with this guide to the best places to visit 

"I'm heading to Naples , Florida  on a family vacation for 2 weeks. I'm planning to relax mostly, with lots of trips to the beach and eating good food! But I'm hoping to take a trip to the Everglades , too." – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

For upscale romance and the prettiest, most serene city beach in southwest Florida, come to Naples, the Gulf Coast's answer to Palm Beach. The soft white sand is backed only by narrow dunes and half-hidden mansions. More than that, though, Naples is a cultured, sophisticated town, unabashedly stylish and privileged but also welcoming and fun-loving. With spectacular year-round sunshine, there's certainly no bad time to visit Florida . Summers can be pretty hot, but you'll probably spend less on lodging than the winter or summer months.

Traveling to Florida on a budget? We've got some money-saving tips for you

Massachusetts

"My friends and I are going to Martha’s Vineyard , Massachusetts in July. We’re planning a Midsommar -esque garden dinner one night and will spend the rest of our time beach hopping and strolling through Edgartown." – Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

Martha's Vineyard remains untouched by the kind of rampant commercialism found on the mainland – there's not a single chain restaurant or cookie-cutter motel in sight. Sunny skies and consistently hot weather make July and August the best time for a traditional beach holiday with sunning, swimming and sand-digging. The tradeoff, of course, is that July and August are the months everyone goes to the Vineyard and it's likely to be jam-packed, so plan ahead.

Want to see more of Massachusetts? Here are the best road-trip routes

"My family is headed to Northern Michigan this summer. We're excited to paddleboard to a shipwreck, relax on the beach and sail on Lake Michigan. We'll hike and run down all the sand dunes, explore cute artsy towns full of galleries and good eats." – Sarah Stocking, Digital Editor

Summertime buzzes with travelers when draws like the  Great Lakes , charming islands and unspoiled wilderness are at their most accessible. Michigan’s high season kicks off on Memorial Day (the last Monday in May). Ferries start to depart more regularly to popular spots and while summer-only establishments lift their shutters. The weather is mostly sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). This means lots of summer-only outdoor activities begin.

There are loads of great beaches in Michigan. Here's our guide to the very best

North Carolina

"My wife and I are going to Kure Beach, North Carolina for the 4th of July for five days — my favorite things to do there are take a yoga class on the beach with Kure Beach Yoga (no need to bring a mat, bring a towel!), watch the sunrise from our hotel (The Lighthouse Inn, a very laid-back and recently revamped spot right by the water so you don’t have to stress about parking, which is awful every summer), and see if we can find the boardwalk cat, Bibi." – Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager

The height of summer in North Carolina is beach time, and with 322 miles (518km) of ocean shoreline reaching from the  Outer Banks  in the north to the  South Carolina  border in the south (and 12,000 miles/19,000km of estuarine coastline along the way),  North Carolina has plenty of beaches to choose from . Kure Beach has 6 miles (10km) of protected shoreline as well as lagoons teeming with wildlife that you can explore by renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard.

Explore some of North Carolina's epic landscapes by foot with our guide to the best hiking routes

Rhode Island

"I'm off to Newport , Rhode Island for Memorial Day Weekend and planning on going to restaurants, wineries, mansion tours, walking and hiking." – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

It may be the yachting capital of the world, but you don’t need nautical stripes – or a summer cottage – to enjoy the seaside retreat of Newport, Rhode Island. With its fresh briny air, expansive sea views and stunning bays, it's obvious why cityfolk continue to follow in the footsteps of the American industrialists here. Enjoy a taste of the good life by touring Newport's Gilded Age mansions built in the late 1800s, taking sailing lessons, or going wine tasting.

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Oaks Amusement Park launches 2024 season with daily operation during Oregon spring break

It was opening day at Oaks Amusement Park on Saturday.

The park kicked off its 2024 season today, with rides, mini golf, carnival games, and the roller rink.

Officials say the park will be open from Noon to 5 p.m. everyday through the end of the month for Oregon's spring break.

After that, it'll be open on weekends until summer.

More details are available on the Oaks Amusement Park website .