——November 10 (Register in September)——Community Family Event: Lantern Making & Forest Walk

REGISTRATION for this event opens September 2024—Join the waitlist—

Sunday, November 10, 2024

We know Autumn has arrived when the days get shorter and shorter, the weather turns cold, and the angle of the sun changes the colors around us. We can feel the season urging us to turn inward. A way to celebrate this change of season is to bring our light into the growing dark on a quiet walk through the woods with lanterns in hand. Afterwards we can enjoy a bonfire together, with popcorn and warm cider. To prepare for the walk we will meet earlier in the day to make lanterns and learn some songs.

This event is family friendly for all ages, but especially ideal for little ones preschool-2nd grade. Flash-free photography is ok.

LANTERN MAKING—ASHLAND 2 times available, choose 9am or 10:30am, 6 families per time slot

Make a paper lantern and learn songs for the lantern walk. All tools and supplies will be provided. Location: 1400 3rd St W Ashland, WI 54806. Enter through back door.

LANTERN WALK—WASHBURN at 4:30pm

Meet at dusk at Starview Woods off Wannebo Rd in Washburn at 4:30pm for a quiet walk as the sun sets. Our newly made lanterns (with led lights in them) will light the way on the loop trail that takes ~15 minutes to complete. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Afterwards there will be popcorn and warm cider around the bonfire.

Location: Meeting place and other details will be sent after registration.

HISTORY

A Martinmas lantern walk is typically celebrated in Waldorf schools with the young children to bring them an experience of the changing weather and a sense of anticipation for winter and the gift giving season to come.

SAFETY

Please be aware that there is uneven ground in the forest and lighting will be limited. There is a risk of falls or injury. By participating in this event, you and your family agree to take responsibility for your own safety and hold hosts and event leaders harmless for any accidents or injuries that may occur during the event. You and your family agree to follow directions and respect your environment.

Registration fee: $35 per family includes cider and popcorn for all, and supplies for three lanterns. Sign up as another family for additional lanterns.

HOSTS

Jo Nowak-Thompson has taught in public school district preschools for over 20 years. She specializes in integrating Waldorf principles into public school settings. She received her BA in Elementary Education at Northland College, Waldorf Early Childhood Training in Eugene, OR, Kindergarten Certification in Switzerland and a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education in Iowa. She and her husband Brian recently moved back to Ashland.

Jazmin Hicks-Dahl taught at the East Bay Waldorf School for 9 years. She enjoys creating magic with children and making things. She runs Woodspirit School and Woodspirit Handcraft with her husband in Ashland, WI.

Artwork by Maria Woolley