The Competitive Gaming badge will enter the Scouts BSA Test Lab in March 2026, giving Scouts the opportunity to explore esports, game strategy, teamwork, and competitive team dynamics with an emphasis on sportsmanship, communication, and strategic thinking. The Test Lab allows Scouts to try new, experimental badge topics using digital resources rather than printed pamphlets. Scouts may work with any registered adult volunteer to complete the requirements and must submit a short survey at the end. If the badge later becomes an official merit badge, those who completed it during the test period will receive full advancement credit.

All requirements must be completed before the badge’s expiration date, and Scouts will earn a certificate of completion signed by their registered adult volunteer, which may be used for advancement if the badge is approved. Requirements and digital resources will be available here, and questions may be directed to testlab@scouting.org

Scouting families, alumni, and friends are invited to attend the 2026 National Jamboree as Day Visitors at the Summit Bechtel Reserve. This is a unique opportunity to experience Scouting’s premier national event firsthand, featuring high energy activities, live demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and the vibrant spirit that defines the National Jamboree.

Day Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with 15,000 Scouts and Scouters from across the country who are participating in this once in a lifetime experience. It is an exciting way to see Scouting in action and share in the adventure.

Day Visitor access will be available on July 24 and 25, 2026, as well as July 27 through July 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day. Ticket prices are $100 for guests ages 14 and older, $75 for youth ages 6 to 13, and free for children ages 5 and under.

Two of the most anticipated highlights of the Jamboree are the Opening and Closing Shows. The Opening Show will take place on July 23, 2026 at 8:30 PM, and the Closing Show will be held on July 30, 2026 at 8:00 PM. These special events bring the entire community together to celebrate the spirit, adventure, and excitement of the 2026 National Jamboree. Additional details and ticket information are available here.

Summer camp planning starts now!

Consider what you want to do at Ransburg this summer. 

The activity schedule is online.

No leaves? No problem! Winter is a great time to try your hand at identifying trees by looking at parts other than their leaves, such as their bark texture, color, general shape, or buds.

Digital resource guides serve as companions to merit badge pamphlets and are designed to support Scouts by offering additional materials that enhance the learning experience. Find digital resource guides here.

Advancement Updates

Planned improvements to Scouts BSA merit badge requirements will take effect on January 1, 2026. These updates will help Scouts explore modern career paths and hobbies, develop practical skills, and engage with current topics while maintaining the quality and tradition of the Scouting advancement program. These changes are tentative; additional changes may occur before January 1st, 2026.