Over Thanksgiving, Vanguards host their families at HoneyRock - they plan the activities, cook and serve the meal, and see to the smallest details. In the past, 100+ have gathered to celebrate the holiday together. Families to not only catch a glimpse into the Vanguard Year, but also spend quality time as individual families. It's a Thanksgiving you won't forget!
Important Dates
Vanguard Gap Year Calendar
The 2025-2026 Vanguard year begins on September 13, 2025 and concludes on May 2, 2026.
| Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| 9/13/2025 | Arrival Day |
| Mid-September | Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Trip |
| 11/26- 11/29 | Vanguard's Host Thanksgiving at HoneyRock |
| 12/13/25 - 01/04/2026 | Christmas Break |
| End of February | Mission/Immersion Trips |
| Early April | Track Specific Trips |
| 05/02/2026 | Departure Day |
Dates to Know
- September: Wilderness Trip to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (6-7 days)
- February/March: Cross-Cultural Immersion Trips, international or domestic (12-14 days)
- April: Track specific trips, domestic (1 week)
Breaks
- Families invited to Thanksgiving at HoneyRock
- Three weeks at Christmas