In the summer of 2020, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a group of close friends found themselves missing something precious—each other’s company. Work schedules, family commitments, and the demands of life had left little room for them to gather, laugh, and enjoy the simple moments that had once been so abundant. As days turned into months, we realized that we needed to carve out time to reconnect, to hold onto the joy and camaraderie that bound us together. And so, the idea of a camping trip was born.

After much discussion and anticipation, we decided that August would be the perfect time to bring everyone together. We chose Canterbury as our destination, but it wasn’t without its challenges. Finding the right venue—one that would allow us to make the most of our time together—was no easy task. We wanted this trip to be more than just a getaway. It was an opportunity to create lasting memories, to share laughter, stories, and experiences that would stay with us for years to come.

In the end, our efforts paid off. Seventeen friends, all men with different backgrounds and stories, came together for a weekend of camping. One night and two days—yet those moments felt endless in the best way. The air was filled with laughter, the crackle of campfires, and the warmth of friendship. We shared meals, played music, and told stories that had us in stitches. It was a time of reconnecting, of setting aside the responsibilities and pressures of everyday life, even if just for a while.

The success of that weekend was undeniable. As we packed up to leave, no one wanted it to end. And so, a new tradition was born. Every summer since, the camping trips have returned, each one filled with new memories and deeper bonds. What began as a simple plan to reunite has evolved into an annual celebration of friendship, adventure, and the joy of being together.