Guide to the Official World Youth Day 2027 Schedule

Upon the conclusion of World Youth Day 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal, Pope Francis announced that Seoul, South Korea, would host the next global youth gathering in 2027. Now that the dates have been finalized, you can plan your world youth day pilgrimage with Select International and attend this transformative event from August 3–8, 2027. 

World Youth Day is an international gathering that brings Catholic youth from around the world together in a spirit of unity and to strengthen the Universal Church. Our tour includes unique occasions for all to enjoy. The multi-day event involves catechesis, prayer, the sacraments, cultural exchange, and a final Mass with the Holy Father. 

Who Will Accompany You on Our World Youth Day Tour?

World Youth Day is not just any trip; it’s a pilgrimage with Jason and Crystalina Evert, Catholic speakers and authors; Paul J. Kim, a Catholic speaker, musician, and counselor; and Fr. Leo Patalinghug, a Catholic priest, chef, author, and media host. Special events, inspiring talks, and genuine time with your hosts are part of every step on this journey through our World Youth Day trip.

When Are the Main Events for World Youth Day 2027?

Here is the World Youth Day 2027 schedule:

• Tuesday, August 3: The Youth Festival begins with the Opening Mass, Youth Festival launch, and Vocations Fair opening.
• Wednesday, August 4: The official launch of the morning Catechesis sessions.
• Thursday, August 5: The formal Papal Welcome Ceremony.
• Friday, August 6: The traditional Way of the Cross processional.
• Saturday, August 7: The Vigil and Adoration with Pope Leo XIV.
• Sunday, August 8: The closing Mass with Pope Leo XIV and the announcement of the next World Youth Day location.

Why Do Young People Attend World Youth Day?

Irrespective of how close or distant they are from the Church, young people aged 16 to 35 attend World Youth Day (WYD) to connect with other young adults from around the world and experience the global unity inherent in the Catholic faith. They deepen their convictions and attain spiritual growth through collective prayer, catechism, sacraments, evangelization, and pilgrimage in a space that celebrates youth and joy.

The youth get to enjoy a gathering of different cultures and connect with their cultural identity while surrounded by peers from a global community who share their values. One of the most important reasons is that they can see and hear the Pope speak directly to them.

Parish facilities, family homes, pavilions, schools, and gymnasiums welcome them over the course of a week. In addition to moments of prayer and hearing the gospel, they spend leisure time with other young people and participate in diverse initiatives across the host city, including cultural exchanges and concerts. 

These are just some of the reasons why WYD attracts between 500,000 and 3 million young people, depending on travel costs, the host city’s accessibility, and local population.

What Takes Place During the Final Weekend With the Pope?

Millions of young people from around the world walk to a spacious outdoor venue as part of the World Youth Day weekend pilgrimage. They carry mats, sleeping bags, and other provisions with them on their long hike.

The pilgrims greet the Pope wholeheartedly upon his arrival at the open-air field, where they hold the Saturday prayer Vigil together overnight. The liturgical or thematic program includes personal testimonies, music, scripture, and speeches or addresses by the Pope, who then leads the crowd in an interlude of silent prayer and Adoration before performing the Blessed Sacrament. Many consider the Saturday gathering to be the spiritual and emotional climax of the week-long festival.

Young people sleep under the stars as they await the Papal Closing Mass on Sunday morning. The purpose of the Mass is to bring the global church together and entrust specific tasks to the youth. Bishops and priests from around the world assist the Pope during the Mass as he addresses young people directly and delivers messages of peace and encouragement. He then leads the pilgrims in the traditional Sunday Angelus prayer before announcing the host city and country for the next World Youth Day, to be held in two or three years.

What Is Included in the Select International Tours Itinerary?

Our World Youth Day tour takes place from August 1 to 10, 2027. You can expect:

• Private, air-conditioned motor coaches for luxurious travel. Our transports combine personalized space in cozy reclining seats with climate-controlled comfort and panoramic views through large windows.
• Centrally located 4-star hotels so you and your new friends can explore the area and the culture when you are not involved in the celebrations you’ve come to join in or where you can rest and relax in style when tired after a busy day.
• Local English-speaking tour managers who understand your questions and interests will provide you with the information and assistance you need.
• Our group airfare options will save you money, protect all travelers from price surges, and secure a single, expected fare for all.  

Where Can You View the Full Travel Brochure for Seoul?

Please download the brochure to learn more about the Official World Youth Day 2027 trip with Select International and to obtain all the details on the itinerary, inclusions, and pricing.

Clergy and church leaders have trusted us to shape group travel diligently, providing Catholic pilgrims with wonderful experiences for over 38 years. They have learned that the Select team offers incomparable expertise, is steadfast in its professionalism, and that the partners truly believe in what they do to bring pilgrims and their faith together in a profound way. Reach out to Select International Tours if you have any questions about Seoul 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Official Theme of the World Youth Day Event?

The theme chosen by the Holy See is “Take courage! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). The scriptural focus chosen by the Roman Catholic Church, led by the Pope, aims to inspire resilience and hope among the global youth in the Catholic community.

Who Can Participate? Do You Have to Be Catholic?

All are welcome to attend, regardless of their religious background. While the Catholic Church organizes WYD and primarily targets young adults aged 16 to 35, the organizers invite youth from other communities and religions so they, too, may experience the spiritual and cultural exchange.

What Are the Travel Requirements for Americans Visiting South Korea?

American citizens can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa. You will require:

• A valid U.S. passport at the time of entry. Airlines and transit countries may enforce a strict 6-month validity rule.
• An online K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is required before you board your flight.
• An e-Arrival Card or electronic arrival declaration submitted online within three days before landing.

Any Health, Customs, and Local Regulations I Should Know About?

• Contact the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety well in advance if traveling with certain prescription and over-the-counter medications. These include heavy painkillers, narcotics, and Adderall, which are illegal.
• Contact your local South Korean Consulate before departure, as males who hold dual South Korean and U.S. citizenship may be subject to mandatory South Korean military service laws.
• South Korea does not require vaccinations or routine immunizations, nor does it require COVID-19 certificates for entry.

Can You Attend Wyd Events Without Official Registration, and How Do “Pilgrim Packages” Work?

You don’t need a formal registration to attend the main public WYD events. However, an official Pilgrim Package registration will provide essentials like public transport, meal vouchers, coordinated group accommodation in public facilities, an official pilgrim kit, and insurance. Official registration opens approximately one year before the event.