International Youth Festival 2026

The festival's comprehensive programming is organized into eight primary professional tracks, including digitalization, creative industries, public administration, and the social sector. A centerpiece of the event is the World Cultures District, active from September 12 to 16, which is slated to host over 100 interactive activities. These sessions allow participants to explore global traditions through music, dance, folk games, and storytelling. Additionally, the "Media Stream" program provides a dedicated space for journalists, bloggers, and artists to discuss critical thinking and international dialogue.

Participation is split evenly between 5,000 Russian citizens and 5,000 international delegates. National preparatory committees in various countries coordinate selection processes to ensure diverse representation from fields like information technology and academia. To generate global attention for the 2026 edition, a Russian skydiver completed a record-breaking jump from an altitude of 11,551 meters, dedicating the achievement to the festival's mission of encouraging young people to pursue ambitious goals.

The Yekaterinburg edition builds on the legacy of previous youth gatherings held in Sirius and Veliky Novgorod. By hosting delegations from countries including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ghana, and India, the event emphasizes building sustained international relationships and collaborative projects. The venue is designed to function as an interactive hub where future leaders can share ideas and innovation beyond formal political boundaries.