Youth and Government Weekend

Where: Augusta State House Complex
When: November 6-7-8, 2026

The Youth in Government Weekend is the student-led culmination of the program. Students will assume their Role and create a government and run their government in the State House Chambers, Court, and meeting rooms, just as their real-life counterparts do for Maine.

Program Dates

November 5-6: Leadership Training for designated elected and appointed Roles at State House (beginning at 5:00 PM on Thursday)
November 6-8: Youth and Government Weekend at State House Complex

Program Fees

$220.00 per participant who will stay at the Hotel
$170.00 per participant staying at home or with a relative

Who is eligible to attend?

All participants who attended at least one online Caucus (held September-October).

Program Highlights

Participants are called delegates, and they may serve in Roles in Executive, Judicial, or Legislative branches, or become a Lobbyist or member of the Media.

Prior to the Youth and Government Weekend, delegates elect leaders in each branch during online Caucuses, learn about Maine issues, and draft Bills for their assigned committee. 

Elected and Appointed Student Leaders serve in positions that mirror Maine’s real government, including Youth Governor, President of the Senate, Speaker of the House, Chief Justice, Committee Chairs, and Cabinet Members. They receive additional training to lead their area and work together to run the Weekend.

Friday, after swearing in and the opening gavel, delegates begin public hearings and work sessions for all Bills before the Youth Legislature.

Saturday, students get hands-on experience in parliamentary procedure and debate as Bills reach the floor of the House and Senate. Candidates for the next Youth Governor kick off their campaign.

Sunday, the election for the next Governor takes place, debate on all Bills concludes, closing ceremonies including awards and announcement of the new Governor, and final closing gavel.