day. Usually these films include a large amount of sarcasm towards habits of the camp. National Evening On this evening all participants gather in groups consisting of all people from their own nation. Every group has to give a short presentation on something that is typical for their country. Often, the presentations are hilarious and participants like to present their country in an ironic way. Poetry Evening Participants share their favourite poetry, from any language. Observation During the night, many participants try to enjoy the beauty of the night sky as much as possible, as long as the weather allows them. Practical working groups try to run their projects with the use of telescopes and other devices, which are all carried to the observation field. Also participants from other working groups join: sleeping under the night sky is something very special. Special moments on which many people like to go to the observation field include the peak of the Perseid showers, on the 11th of August, should the camp be taking place at that time. If the weather is too bad, however, most participants attend one of the many parties, organised throughout the camp. Special days There are two special days in the camp, namely the following: Excursion day During this day, an excursion is organised. It is meant to show something that is specific for the area in with the camp is held. After that, a hike through the area is held, after which a local town in visited. This day is used to visit the internet facilities as well, as the participants cannot make use of internet during the camp itself. The excursion day ends with a party on the camp site. Free day On this day, the camp is 'at rest'. The participants are free to do whatever they want. Most participants choose to make a short trip in the area, either sightseeing a nearby city or hiking/cycling surrounding nature. Others choose to stay back at the camphouse and relax for the day. IWA The organisation behind the IAYC is called The International Workshop for Astronomy e.V. which was established in 1979. It is responsible for the camp and consists of the leaders, who all do this on a voluntarily basis. Time line The first IAYCs were all held in Germany and its bordering countries. Later on, other countries were visited. In the late 1970s camps were