It was quite the celebration last night, as thousands of young people (and not-so-young people) surrounded the main stage for a night of music, dance and jollity.
The celebrations were kick-started by a fierce DJ battle – Red vs Blue – which really got people moving. The sound of the whole crowd singing along to Let It Go with the Blue Team was tremendous, but it was the Red Team who brought out the big guns for the finish with The Cha Cha slide.
It was an incredible sight: thousands of people dancing along. But when it came to an end, the audience was on edge. What could the Blue Team bring out to possibly top that?
And then the Village People started playing across the village, with the YMCA.
Now thoroughly in the mood for dancing, the fun continued with a subcamp dance megamix! We got to speak to Elsie, Abby and Florence from Dengie, staying on Murray subcamp. Abby loved the Nile subcamp’s dance, but mostly because “I just love the song!”, while Florence enjoyed doing the Cancan. Elsie’s loyalty wasn’t as easily swayed though – of course her favourite dance would be Murray’s!
After we were all danced out (for now), it was the staff’s turn! Parading right through the centre of the arena, they were lead by the Info Team’s Thames Barge, sailed by none other than Queen Karen 1st. It was a magnificent vessel, although there were a few too many seagulls for our liking.
As the teams paraded through, brandishing garments and tools they used throughout the week, the crowds were roaring with appreciation. Especially for the giant poop emojis!
After the parade, it was a return to singing and dancing as Brightside took to the stage, playing hit after hit after hit for nearly an hour, before finishing with our favourite song, which they were kind enough to learn especially for us: We Are EIJ!
And then, as the music faded, the sky behind us lit up as enormous fireworks took to the sky – a beautiful way to finish a fantastic week in the field. The crowd was silent as they took in the spectacle, before cheering for “one more song!” to finish the night, which Brightside were more than happy to deliver - a powerful rendition of Hey Jude to send us off, before Karen and Paul lowered the EIJ 2024 Flag, signifying the end of the jamboree.
As the arena began to empty, participants slowly retreating to their tents, it was the laughter of friendship and celebration that hang in the air. Thank you to everyone who came along and enjoyed the show, safe travels!
