Delegates

FAQ For Delegates

When is Evergreen Boys & Girls State

Evergreen Boys & Girls State is held from Sunday, June 20 thru Saturday, June 26, 2027 at the Warm Beach Conference Center in Stanwood, Washington. Students attending are expected to be at the program from the time they check in (between noon and 2:30 pm) on Sunday, until dismissal on Saturday (around 10:30 am).

Can I arrive late to the program? Can I leave early?

No. All participants are required to attend the entire session from start to finish. Evergreen Boys & Girls State is a fast-paced, immersive program where every student plays an important role in the mock government.

Arriving late or leaving early disrupts the experience – not only for you, but for the others who are counting on your full participation. The program is carefully structured, and missing even a small portion means you’ll miss critical instructions, group decisions, and responsibilities that others would then have to cover.

To get the most out of this leadership experience – and to be fair to your fellow delegates – we ask that you commit to being present and engaged for the entire duration of the program.

What are the political parties like?

Political Parties at EBGS are based entirely on fictional parties that we use to teach the process. We do not designate a conservative or liberal party. You and your fellow students will determine the political positions of the two parties. Students are randomly assigned to a political party, and the two parties have roughly equal membership. Just like in real life, you probably won’t agree 100% with one party or the other. Again, it is much more about you learning the process than the final product.

Can I bring campaign materials from home or make them ahead of time?

No. All campaign supplies will be provided once you arrive. Everyone starts fresh and on the same level – no one gets a head start. You may not even end up running for the office you had in mind before you get there. One of the main goals of Evergreen Boys & Girls State is to learn the process rather than just focus on the outcome. Please leave any posters, flyers, or slogans at home.

How much money should I bring?

You really don’t need to bring any money at all. Meals and supplies are all covered. However, if you’d like snacks from the vending machines or want to pitch in for the optional pizza party at the end of the week, $20 to $25 in small bills should be more than enough.

Can I drive myself to the program?

Yes, but once you arrive, you won’t be using your car during the week. You’ll park in a secure, well-lit area and turn in your keys at check-in. They’ll be kept safe and returned to you after breakfast on the last day.

Can I leave campus during the week?

No. For safety and supervision reasons, students must stay on campus the entire week. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of space to walk, hang out, and enjoy the outdoors. Everything you need, including meals, is already provided.

Will I have access to a gym or athetic facilities?

Not exactly. We don’t rent indoor gym facilities, but there are open areas on campus where you can go for a jog or get some fresh air. Many students take advantage of this in the mornings.

What is the food like?

Meals are provided by the Warm Beach Conference Center dining staff, and they’re served cafeteria-style. Options vary each day—think tacos, spaghetti, chicken stir-fry, and more. You can go back for seconds once everyone’s had a chance to eat. Vegetarian, allergy-friendly, and special dietary options are available – just make sure to let us know by June 1st by emailing office@evergreenboysstate.org.

Will I see other students from my high school?

You might! We do not limit the number of attendees a school can send. But we encourage you to branch out and meet new people. One of the best parts of the week is getting to know students from different parts of the state.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

You’ll stay in dorm-style housing at Warm Beach. Most rooms sleep 3 students, although some larger rooms may house up to 8–10 people. All bedding and linens are provided. Everyone shares bathroom and shower facilities in your building.

There are separate dorms for male and female delegates.

Can I choose my roommate?

No. Room assignments are made based on the “city” group you’ll be placed in, and those are assigned at random before you arrive. This helps you meet new people and work with students you wouldn’t otherwise know.

Will I have email or internet access?

Yes, there is internet on campus. You can bring a phone, tablet, or laptop if you want, but keep in mind you’ll be very busy. Also, while we take security very seriously in all areas we use, EBGS cannot take responsibility for lost or stolen electronics.

Can I have visitors during the week?

Yes, with a few rules: all visitors must check in at the program office, they can only visit during approved times, and they must stay in common areas. Visitors are not allowed in dorm rooms, and you must still attend all scheduled events and activities.

Do I have to participate in all activities?

Yes. The program is fast-moving and hands-on, so full participation is expected. You’ll be tired by the end, but it’ll be worth it. You only get one shot at this experience, and we want you to make the most of it!

Can I just come and passively participate without holding a position?

No. Evergreen Boys & Girls State is built around active participation, and every student is expected to play a role in the mock government. While you’re not required to run for a major elected office, everyone will end up with a position of responsibility.

After the general election, any student who hasn’t been elected to a role will be assigned one, so that every part of the government structure is filled and functioning. That’s why it’s a good idea to explore your interests early in the week and go after a position that fits you. Whether you enjoy leadership, writing, law, or teamwork, there’s a place for you to shine—but only if you engage fully.