A Week of Artistic Exploration Awaits!

Margaret M. Grow Youth Camp for the Arts

Join us for an unforgettable week of theater, visual arts, and imagination designed for young artists aged 8–16.
Located in the heart of Byhalia, our camp offers a vibrant environment where creativity flourishes.

2025 Camp Registration

🗓️ When: June 9–13, 2025
⏰ Time: 9 a.m.–12 noon (Drop-off from 8:45 a.m.)
📍 Where: Old School Commons – 161 Hwy 309 S, Byhalia, MS
💵 Cost: $25 per camper, or $75 max per family (3+ children)
➡️ Choose between: Visual Arts or Performing in Matilda the Musical Jr.

Choose Your Creative Adventure

Dramatic Arts 🎭

Dive into the world of theater with a performance of Matilda the Musical Jr. Experience the thrill of acting, singing, and stagecraft with a talented group of 30 campers.

Visual Arts 🎨

Explore your artistic side through daily workshops in drawing, painting with poetry, and mosaic-making. Each day brings a new creative challenge for our 30 young artists.

What to Expect

Guidelines for Campers

Prepare your young artist for a fun and creative week! Campers should wear casual clothing that can get a little messy, as well as closed-toe shoes for safety. Please leave electronics, personal art supplies, and any sharp or messy items like glitter at home. We provide all necessary materials to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

What to Wear:

  • Dress casually and comfortably.Wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. (Art can be messy!)

  • Sport closed-toe shoes like sneakers. No flip flops, please.

🚫 Leave at Home:

  • Electronics and Gaming Devices

  • Expensive or Sentimental Items

  • Messy or Non-Art-Related Materials

  • Personal Art Supplies

  • Food and Drinks (we’ll have snacks!)

  • Sharp or Hazardous Items

  • Large Bags or Extra Clothing

  • Pets or Stuffed Animals

A Legacy of Art, Love, and Community

The Youth Camp for the Arts is more than just a place for creativity: It is a living tribute to the vision and generosity  of Mrs. Faye Woods. As the founder of the Byhalia Area Arts Council (BAAC) in 2011, Mrs. Woods dedicated herself to fostering artistic expression and providing opportunities for young creators to thrive. Thanks to the unwavering support of the Margaret M. Grow Charitable Foundation, this annual camp continues to inspire and uplift children in our community. Beyond the camp, BAAC is leading the transformation of the Old School Commons into a vibrant space for community gatherings and performing arts.

This effort reflects Mrs. Woods’ lifelong commitment to enriching Byhalia through creativity and connection. Mrs. Woods was not only a leader but a beloved member of this community. Her kindness, vision, and passion touched countless lives, and although she passed away on July 24, 2024, her legacy lives on.

Every brushstroke, every melody, and every artistic dream nurtured through these programs is a testament to the impact she had — and will continue to have — for generations to come.