Children raced across the field, navigated an obstacle course and cared for newly adopted stuffed bears as more than 400 Adventurers, family members, leaders and volunteers gathered May 17, 2026 at Buena Vista Seventh-day Adventist School in Auburn, Washington.
Washington Conference Adventurer Fun Day serves as an end-of-year celebration for clubs across the conference, bringing families together for worship, fellowship and fun while recognizing God’s blessings throughout the club year.
This year’s theme, “Run the Race,” encouraged children to care for their bodies, work as a team and remain faithful in their walk with God. Adventurers completed activities connected with the Fitness Fun, Olympics, Health Specialist and Germs awards, learning about physical activity, teamwork, hygiene and healthy habits.
Oscar Santana, local health coach, shared the devotional and encouraged participants throughout the day. Children and their families also participated in a running race and a large obstacle course led by the Burien Master Guide Club.
A highlight of the day was Bear Health Fair, presented through a collaboration between Washington Conference Adventurer, children’s and health ministries. Nearly 200 stuffed bears found new homes as children selected a bear and cared for it while moving through interactive health stations.
Families learned about nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, fresh air, rest, temperance and trust in God. Children practiced these principles with their bears through movement activities, water games, bedtime routines and prayer stations. Adventurers who completed the experience also fulfilled requirements for the Health Specialist award.
About 30 volunteers helped lead the health fair, including young people from LifeBridge Church and other churches across the conference. Their enthusiasm, kindness and willingness to serve helped create a welcoming experience for children and parents.
Local Adventurer clubs also sold food as a fundraiser, giving families an opportunity to support club ministries while enjoying the day together.
Adventurer Fun Day is designed as a screen-free experience where families can worship, play and learn together. For some participants, Adventurer clubs provide one of their first connections with an Adventist church.
Some congregations hesitate to start a club because they believe they do not have enough children or young families. Washington Conference Adventurer leaders encourage churches to consider opening a club and creating a welcoming ministry where new families can connect.
Adventurer Fun Day is more than a single event. It celebrates a year of regular meetings, local ministry and shared experiences that help children grow physically, socially and spiritually.
As the ministry continues to grow, conference leaders hope more churches will recognize how Adventurer clubs and outreach events, such as Bear Health Fair, can strengthen families, build community connections and help prepare children for heaven.
Adventurer Fun Day brings children from across Washington Conference together for worship, fellowship and fun.
Participants warm up together before taking off in the Adventurer Fun Day race.
Participants visit the sunshine station during Bear Health Fair, learning how sunlight supports a healthy lifestyle.
Adventurers step away from screens and embrace physical activity as they climb through the Adventurer Fun Day obstacle course.
