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Winterfest 2024 brought the magic of the season to life as the Shady Side Academy Lower School community gathered on the Senior School campus on December 5. The evening, a cherished tradition, offered students, families, faculty, and staff a chance to connect and celebrate the winter season through music, art, and engaging activities.

The festivities began in the Rauh Theater with a holiday sing-along, setting a jubilant tone for the night. Families joined together, singing to lyrics projected on screen and creating a warm sense of unity.

After the sing-along, the campus transformed into a hub of winter-themed activities that captured the imagination of students and their families. The Glow Gallery, a signature Winterfest attraction, amazed attendees with its neon creations. Student artwork, made luminous under black lights, showcased the creativity of pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students. To ensure the youngest students could fully enjoy the experience, priority access was given to Pre-K, kindergarteners, and their siblings.

The Glow Dance Party in Curry Gym kept spirits high as families boogied under glowing lights to festive music, while sipping on hot cocoa. Nearby, budding engineers tackled the STEM challenge of constructing marshmallow igloos for polar bears.

For those seeking a cozy moment, the Grzymkowski Terrace offered hot cocoa and popcorn by a roaring fire. In the BVAC, families crafted snow globes, adding a personal touch to their Winterfest memories. The Hillman Terrace offered a photo booth with fun props, where families could capture snapshots of the evening's joy.

The SSA Spirit Store at the Hillman Theatre welcomed attendees to shop for Shady Side gear, rounding out the evening with school spirit. Faculty and staff were stationed throughout the campus to assist families, and glow sticks lit the pathways to ensure safe navigation in the wintry night.

Winterfest 2024 was more than a seasonal celebration; it was a reflection of Shady Side Academy’s strong sense of community and dedication to creating meaningful, joyful experiences for its families. As Jack Frost lent his chill to the air, the warmth of shared laughter, creativity, and camaraderie kept everyone glowing until the end of the evening.