July 15th is the start of World Youth Day (WYD), which is the gathering of young Catholics from all over the world to learn and celebrate their religion. It occurs every two to three years in different locations (there are also local Youth Day celebrations by the various Diocese that take place every year). This year it is being held in Sydney, Australia and will last for six days. This event is known to break records for youth gatherings. This WYD is expected to draw 125,000 people. It has been reported that plane tickets from the United States to Australia are almost impossible to get on some airlines during the time of WYD. Typical events are vigils, Stations of the Cross, musical shows, sacrament of reconciliation, Mass celebrated with the Pope, and opening and closing ceremonies. Of Course, the Pope’s arrival is the highlight, and he is always given a very energetic, warm welcome by the thousands of participants (the reception is usually described as being better than a rock star).
If you would like to learn more, go to the Australian WYD website: http://www.wyd2008.org/index.php/en
or to the Vatican WYD website: http://www.vatican.va/gmg/documents/index.html