Winterfest turned the Senior School campus into a festive wonderland, drawing together students, families, faculty, and staff from the Junior and Country Day Schools. This beloved tradition, which marks the arrival of the winter season, saw the Shady Side Academy Lower School community united in a colorful and joyous celebration.
The festivities, held on December 6, began indoors at the Rauh Theater in the Hillman Center with a holiday sing-along, setting a jubilant tone for the evening. Following this melodious start, families were treated to a delightful array of winter-themed activities. The glow gallery, a crowd favorite, returned to showcase students' luminous artwork.
The remarkable glow gallery was created by students in pre-kindergarten through grade 5. Using neon paint and black lights, they transformed their bridge-themed artwork into a glowing experience, drawing inspiration from Pittsburgh's rich artistic heritage and its famous bridges. This collaborative artwork shone brightly, expanding upon the dazzling tradition within the Lower School community.
In addition to the visual arts, Winterfest offered a variety of engaging activities. Families enjoyed hands-on crafts, interactive STEM activities, enchanting winter stories, and exciting races. A lively photo booth captured the memorable moments of the evening. The sense of community and shared joy was palpable as attendees moved from one activity to the next, celebrating the winter season together. The variety of activities not only provided entertainment but also fostered learning and creativity among the students, embodying the Academy's commitment to holistic education and a tight-knit community.