Summer Youth Program

El Lago del Bosque is the largest of the Language Villages, because Spanish is so widely taught and spoken in the United States. The uniqueness of the Spanish Language Village setting is that we have staff members who come from around the Spanish-speaking world, representing Spain, Argentina, Paraguay, Mexico, Peru, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico and many more countries.

The program reflects this intermingling of staff and Hispanic culture in exciting and diverse ways. You may be served an asado argentino (Argentine barbecue) one evening and paella the next.

Music is at the heart of the Spanish Language Village, and everyone finds themselves being drawn into the rhythmic songs and dynamic dances, from el tango to la salsa. Each of the three Village sites offers an array of activities including periodismo (journalism), culinaria (cooking), soccer and swimming. Art projects may vary, but you could have the opportunity to make azulejos (tiles), canastas (baskets) or ojos de Dios.

The authentic architecture of the Bemidji site provides a great backdrop for the daily telenovelas (soap opera skits). The Callaway site is known for its international soccer tournaments and celebrating the quinceñera (a Latin American debutante party). At Marine On St. Croix, you’ll have the opportunity to make cerámicas (pottery) and each day ends with singing around a beautiful fogata (campfire). Join us for a tour of the Spanish-speaking world and you’ll be surprised at how many lifelong friends you’ll make during your stay at El Lago del Bosque!