What is World Youth Day?

World Youth Day is the largest youth event in the world and will be held in Sydney from Tuesday 15 July to Sunday 20 July. Organised by the Catholic Church, WYD08 is expected to attract more than 125,000 international visitors.

The six-day celebration includes the first visit by Pope Benedict XVI to Australia. Sydney will be the only city the Pope visits while in Australia.

The event organisers are planning for up to 225,000 participants including 100,000 Australians. Around 500,000 registered participants and members of the public are expected for the Mass celebrated by the Pope at Randwick Racecourse and Centennial Park.

An estimated 700 Cardinals and Bishops are expected to attend the events, including Pope Benedict XVI on his the first visit to Australia. 3000 to 5000 media personnel are estimated to cover the event which will be internationally televised.

An extensive program of events is planned in conjunction with a number of associated events being organised by other parts of the Catholic Church. View the program of events at www.wyd2008.org.