MARTINMAS LANTERN WALK
November 15th, 2019 at 5:00pm
Red Reef Park
Martinmas has been called the “festival of compassion.” Based on the story of St. Martin of Tours, a Roman soldier who abandoned his position of high rank and wealth to devote his life to serving the poor. It honors, in a universal way, the story of St. Martin, patron saint of beggars and outcasts, who was known for his gentleness and his ability to bring warmth and light to those in need.
Every November, the Waldorf School of Palm Beach Lantern Walk affirms symbolically that light can continue to shine, even as the light and warmth of the sun are waning. This festival is held after dusk, when our lantern light breaks through the outer darkness of approaching winter. It marks the end of harvest and the beginning of winter. Now light and warmth come more from our homes, and from the fellowship of friends and family. Carrying a light into the darkness in the company of others – as we do during the Lantern Walk – can be reassuring. As we journey into the darkest time of the year, it is increasingly important for each of us to kindle warmth and light in our hearts.
This festival invites us to follow the lantern light through the gathering darkness, joining with others who also have chosen the way of compassion.
In Preparation for this annual tradition, children make their own lanterns in class and learn lantern songs. This year’s Lantern Walk will be held on November 15th at Red Reef Beach for families of Early Childhood and Grades 1-3. We will be gathering at 5:00pm for a BYOP (Bring your own picnic), before starting on our walk.
LANTERN WALK SONGS
For those parents who would like to start learning the songs please see the following YouTube videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqHyRzms3eE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eegu3wE9k5o&index=3&list=WL&t=0s
On the next video, we will sing all but the last 3 songs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RbTRY0QK28&t=3s
PARKING
Boca Raton residents with beach parking decals can park at no charge at Red Reef. Otherwise parking is $17. You can also park across the street for $2 / per hour. We encourage you to confirm your decals are up to date and/or to carpool.
