Lantern Festival

Lantern Festival - October

On Thursday October 19, West Richmond Community Centre hosted the 18th annual Lantern Festival. Unfortunately it was raining this year so we were forced to moved the festivities inside - however the rain did not stop the guests from enjoying a magical evening.

As a newer staff member this was my first Lantern Festival. I was unsure of what to expect, but I was blown away to see our community come together for an evening of charity and fun.

Upon arrival guests were welcomed, many of them graciously brought perishable foods to be donated to the food bank. Next, guests were offered crisp apples and sweet hot chocolate. There were so many stations to visit such as the scarecrow and pumpkin themed photo-op, the wishing tree, face painting, cake walk, obstacle course, drummers, balloon making station, lantern making station, the pizza concession, and finally the charismatic juggler.

As I looked across the room I saw so many familiar and new smiling faces, what an amazing way to see and get to know our students and their families a little bit better outside of the classroom.

Around 7:30pm. we began lighting our special homemade lanterns. Every lantern was beautifully handcrafted and unique, they represented each and everyone of our children perfectly. Then, our Child Care Director, Gina, led a procession accompanied by the drummers to close out the evening. It was truly an amazing night and I can't wait until next year's Lantern Festival.

Jordan Richards

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