2026 Youth Festival

February 27–March 1, 2026

Open to: Church youth choirs and singers, grades 6-12
Location: First Presbyterian Church, Hilton Head Island

This year’s Youth Festival includes:

  • Mass rehearsals led by participating directors

  • Worship and spiritual formation moments

  • Saturday free time with your group

  • Music uniquely curated to engage young singers

  • The opportunity to lead in worship with FPCHHI

Festival Schedule

Our weekend is designed with flexibility for churches and singers. Some adjustments may occur during the festival.

Friday Night — February 27, 2026

  • 9:00 PM — Welcome and Rehearsal in the Sanctuary

  • 10:15 PM — Dismiss

Saturday — February 28, 2026

  • 9:00 AM — Morning Rehearsal (with breaks)

  • 12:00pm — Lunch on-site (per person cost will be shared with participants)

    Directors chat during lunch to formulate afternoon schedule

  • 12:45 PM — Afternoon Rehearsal

    Recognition and Blessing of SENIORS 

  • 3:30 PM — Wrap Up and Dismiss

    Last year we got out EARLY … let’s make it a goal again!

Sunday — March 1, 2026

  • 9:00 AM — Morning Rehearsal

    “Gather & Praise” T-Shirt for Worship (cost TBA)

  • 10:00 AM — Move to choir room for final instructions

  • 10:30 AM — Worship Service with FPCHHI

Festival Repertoire

Each singer will need their own copy of the music and a black folder for worship.  Please do your best to learn the music ahead of time; it will be much more enjoyable for the singers, allowing us to move music beyond just notes and rhythms. 

“Make a Joyful Noise” (SATB) - Taylor Davis

“He Never Failed My Yet” (SATB) - Robert Ray

“Lord, I Believe” (SATB) - Larry Shackley

“Look at the World” (SATB) - John Rutter

“You Shall Go Out in Joy” (SATB) - Michael Barrett
(repeat from last year; perhaps the start of a “sending” tradition)

FAQs

Is there a cost to attend?
No. The Youth Festival is free for churches. Participant costs for lunch on Saturday as well as the Gather & Praise T-shirt will be shared with directors.

Who can participate?
Youth singers in grades 6–12. We’ll let chaperones sing too!

Is lodging provided?
We are once again partnering with The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa for accommodations. Churches are not required to stay at the Westin, but all are encouraged to do so. A link will be sent via email to registrants.

Do choirs need to prepare music in advance?
Learning the music ahead of time will lead to a better festival, however, we will work hard once together fill in the gaps!