Festivals & Celebrations
Festivals are a vital part of the culture of Detroit Waldorf School. They provide nourishment, rhythm, and joy for students and bring our community together in meaningful ways.
Autumn
Rose Ceremony
At an assembly on the first day of school, the first grade teacher welcomes the first grade class, tells a story and announces the name of each student in the class. The eighth graders hand each first grader a rose that they put into a vase symbolizing the individuality and community that lives in the class.
Michaelmas
The first festival during the school year is Michaelmas, celebrated on Sept. 29 or soon thereafter. In the Early Childhood Center, the primary emphasis is on the embracing the fall season and the harvest time, while the grades celebrate with a dragon parade, music, and games of courage.
Halloween
Students celebrate this holiday with a costume parade, music, and merriment.
Winter
Lantern Walk
The Festival of Lanterns, celebrated on Nov. 11th, is an introspective, meditative time. At school, the celebration may include children walking together with handmade lanterns. The lanterns are often decorated with moons and stars, motifs that also appear in the songs of the day.
Winter Faire
Detroit Waldorf School is turned into a Winter Wonderland to celebrate the magic and enchantment of the holiday season, showcasing all of the beautiful aspects of a Waldorf Education.
Winter Concert
The band and orchestra showcase their music making from the first half of the year.
MLK Jr. Assembly
The life and work of Dr. King are celebrated, often with music, storytelling, and artistic performances.
Spring
May Day
Students dance around the Maypole, play games, share music and poetry, and celebrate the beginning of summer.
Spring Concert
The band and orchestra showcase their music making from the second half of the year.
Rose Ceremony
The school year ends with another Rose Ceremony, sending the 8th grade students off to high school and celebrating their years of accomplishments as DWS students.