Friends & Family Events
Be Part of the Dream
At The Waldorf School of DuPage, learning doesn't stay inside the classroom. Throughout the year, we open our doors to the people who matter most to our children: parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and friends. Come see what our children are doing, meet our community, and find out why families here say it feels like a second home.
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Rose & Lily Ceremonies
The Waldorf Rose Ceremony is a beloved tradition that marks the beginning of a student’s journey through the grades. At the start of the school year, eighth graders welcome first graders with a rose, symbolizing guidance, warmth, and new beginnings. In turn, those same students—now graduating—receive a lily from the younger children on the last day of school, honoring the cycle of growth, mentorship, and community that defines Waldorf education.
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Festival of Courage
The Festival of Courage outdoor play celebrates courage, inner strength, and the triumph of light over darkness as the days grow shorter in early autumn. Through stories of St. Michael and the dragon, seasonal songs, and community activities, children are inspired to face challenges with bravery and resilience. At WSD, this festival offers a meaningful way for students and families to connect with nature’s rhythms and the strength that lives within each of us.
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Grandparents & Special Friends Day
This very sweet event is an opportunity to learn more about WSD and see what the child(ren) you know and love do at school each day. Join them in their world and get to know why they love school so much!
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5K of Courage & Chili Cook-off Fundraiser
Together we face our dragons. Together we grow strong.
Building on the lessons learned during the Festival of Courage, our community comes together pulling on inner strength to face the challenge of a 5K and compete for the coveted title and annual bragging rights of best chili!
This event boasts family fun, friendly competition and acts as a fundraiser for WSD with all proceeds supporting our general fund. Join in the fun today!
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Lantern Walk
The Lantern Walk is a cherished Waldorf tradition that takes place in the quiet, reflective days of late autumn. As darkness falls earlier and the natural world turns inward, children carry handmade lanterns through the evening, symbolizing the light we hold within even as the days grow darker. Accompanied by gentle songs and peaceful silence, the walk offers a moment of stillness, beauty, and wonder—reminding us of warmth, hope, and the quiet strength of inner light.
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Spring Gala
Join us in our field of dreams to support our school with presence, generosity, and gratitude. This event is meant to celebrate the gifts of time, talent, and treasure shared during the year while also showing support for the dreams yet to be realized. This evening is filled with laughter, music, and plenty of fun.
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Hearts, Hands, & Voices Concert
Details Coming Soon
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Elves' Market & Winter Spiral
Join us at the Elves' Market for a magical day of shopping and fun! Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious treats, local artisans and vendors. Enjoy live musical performances, magical story times, face-painting, and end the evening in our community winter spiral. Whether you're looking for a special holiday present or just want to indulge in some festive cheer, the Elves' Market is the place to be.
Don't miss out on this enchanting event!
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Spring Concert
Details Coming Soon
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Mayfaire
Mayfaire is a joyful celebration of spring, renewal, and the beauty of nature—a beloved Waldorf tradition that brings the school community together in song, dance, and festivity. Children wear flower crowns, sing seasonal songs, and dance around the Maypole, weaving colorful ribbons in celebration of life’s unfolding. At WSD, Mayfaire is a time to honor the earth’s awakening, express gratitude for the changing seasons, and gather in the spirit of joy, beauty, and community.
Join us!
We celebrate a variety of meaningful festivals throughout the year. Some are open to the public, while others are specially held for our current families.
We invite you to explore the festival listings below to see which celebrations are available to you, based on your connection to the school. Whether you're part of our WSD community or visiting for the first time, there's something beautiful to experience in each season.
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September: Festival of Courage 5K
December: Elves Market, Winter Spiral
May: Mayfaire
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September: Festival of Courage and 5K of Courage
November: Lantern Walk
December: St. Nicholas Day, Elves Market, Winter Spiral, Advent Garden, Santa Lucia Day
February: Candlemas
March: Springtide Gala & Auction
May: Mayfaire, Lily Ceremony
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September: Festival of Courage 5K
December: Elves Market, Winter Spiral
March: Springtide Gala & Auction
May: Mayfaire
The Windrose Journal
Read more about our festivals! Explore the meaning and learn more about how we embody these beloved Waldorf traditions.
Spring Gala
March 21, 2026
The Springtide Gala & Auction is Waldorf School of DuPage’s joyful annual fundraiser, celebrating the growth, creativity, and community spirit that blossom each spring. Parents, alumni, faculty, and friends come together for an evening of connection, celebration, and generosity, all in support of our school’s mission and students. Featuring a silent auction, local food and music, and heartfelt moments, the gala is a beautiful expression of what makes WSD special—and a vital way to help our programs, facilities, and tuition support continue to thrive.