Holywood Steiner School - Class Four: December 2010

The Advent Festival is a massive undertaking. Over fifty stalls, a cafe and restaurant, roomfulls of children's workshops and decoration of the entire school. Not to mention the take down and set up, and the logistics of getting everything sorted at the end of it. Which is why we pay tribute to the many many people to take part in it, who are the parent body, the beating heart of the community. Who come together to pull it off and make it the incredible fund raising it event - as well as the culmination of the celebration of this season that it is.

After having spent all of the last three months celebrating every festival along the way - from St Michael when we began the term - the Advent Festival is the crest of that giant wave. The kids look forward to it, and over the years i have done so too. It was the Advent festival to convinced me that this was the school i wanted my child in. But let the pictures speak for themselves...

The snow on the lawn outside. We were really worried that the bad weather would keep people away. I must explain that all the pictures were taken BEFORE people arrived because i knew i would have no time to do so, AFTER they did. And i was right! Here the kids just enjoy playing in the snow before the crowds arrive.

The wee restaurant. Decorated and set up for the two days.

Greenery festoons the entire school. The good folk at Clandyboyne provide us with the cuttings. An entire can load is filled and carted to the school.

The tables are decorated with greenery found on the school grounds.

Pinecones!

The crystal forest... this was written by a parent a long time ago and has become an important fixture at the festival. During the story, lyre players create a contemplative atmosphere, much like in the walnut boats. I didn't take any photos of the boats, because it was too dark in there! But they are so popular with the children who demonstrate that good taste does not start too young.

The elves in the forest.

Christams cards sold at Class 4's stall! And candles too. They made nearly £80! Impressive.

Gingerbread house that was raffled at the stall...

Kathleen and Lara at the craft stall. Stalwarts of the fair, Lara organised all the craft stall holders and Kathleen keeps the momentum for the craft group and stall going. Amazing ladies!