Gulf Coast Council · STSR Renaissance Fair
AOL Crossover
Campfire
A New Tradition Begins
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
The Crossing of the Bridge
The Arrow of Light is the highest rank in Cub Scouts — and the crossing over to Scouts BSA is one of the most meaningful moments in a young Scout’s journey. This year, Gulf Coast Council is honoring that milestone in a way it has never been done before.
At the closing campfire of the Inaugural STSR Renaissance Fair, Arrow of Light Scouts from across the council will gather at Whipple Circle to cross the bridge in a one-of-a-kind ceremony woven entirely into the spirit of the Renaissance Fair. The ceremony will be conducted by STSR Renaissance Fair staff as a special part of the closing campfire program — and every Scout who crosses will receive an exclusive commemorative memento and special recognition in front of the gathered community.
This is planned to be an annual tradition at the STSR Renaissance Fair. The Scouts who cross the bridge in 2026 will be the very first — the founding class of a ceremony that will carry on for years to come. That’s a legacy worth being part of.
What to Expect
The Ceremony
The Closing Campfire
All registered campers gather at Whipple Circle at 7:30 PM as the Renaissance Fair closing campfire program begins. The AOL Crossover Ceremony is woven into this program as a featured highlight of the night.
On-Theme Recognition
In keeping with the spirit of the Renaissance Fair, each Scout will be called forward and individually recognized. Their name and the troop they are crossing into will be announced as part of the presentation.
Crossing the Bridge
Each Arrow of Light Scout will cross the bridge in a moment designed to honor the achievement and the journey ahead. Renaissance Fair staff will conduct the ceremony from start to finish.
Exclusive Memento
Every Scout who crosses the bridge will receive a commemorative memento marking this milestone — a keepsake from the very first AOL Crossover Campfire at STSR.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility & Troop Involvement
🏹 Arrow of Light Scouts
- Open to any AOL Scout in Gulf Coast Council
- Unit does not need to be camping at the Renaissance Fair
- Registration closes March 12, 2026
- Registration is free
- Scout’s receiving troop is collected at registration
⚔️ Receiving Troops
- Troops are warmly invited to be present to receive crossing Scouts
- Troop attendance is encouraged but not required
- A Scout’s troop will be announced by name during the ceremony
- Great opportunity to welcome new members in a memorable way
For Families
Attending the Ceremony
This is a moment your family will want to witness. Families are welcome to attend the AOL Crossover Campfire, and we want to make sure you can be there.
Families who are not registered campers for the Renaissance Fair weekend are welcome to attend the closing campfire ceremony. You will need to sign in and out at Henson Hall as visitors when you arrive. Please plan to arrive before 7:30 PM.
Non-camping visitors must remain in designated visitor areas and follow all STSR visitor policies. The campfire begins promptly at 7:30 PM — please arrive with time to sign in at Henson Hall.
Registered campers attending the Renaissance Fair weekend will be at the campfire as part of their program — no additional steps needed for camping families.
Register Your Scout
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the first-ever AOL Crossover Campfire at STSR.
Learn More About the Renaissance Fair
Questions? STSREvents@gmail.com