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.

The Festival of Courage 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.

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.

St. Nicholas Day is a quiet and reverent celebration in the Waldorf tradition, observed on or around December 6th. Dressed in white with a red cloak and golden staff, St. Nicholas visits classrooms to share simple gifts and words of encouragement, recognizing each child’s inner goodness and growth. The day emphasizes kindness, reflection, and generosity—offering children a gentle, meaningful experience of being seen and honored during the winter season.

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!

The Advent Garden, also known as the Spiral of Light, is a peaceful and contemplative Waldorf tradition held during the season of Advent. In a quiet, darkened space, children walk a spiral path of evergreens, each carrying an unlit candle. As they reach the center and light their candle from a single flame, they place it along the spiral, gradually filling the space with gentle light and a sense of hope, wonder, and inner peace. This beautiful ceremony honors the quiet anticipation of winter and encourages reflection, stillness, and the light we each carry within.

Santa Lucia Day, celebrated on December 13th, is a beautiful Waldorf tradition that brings light and hope into the dark days of winter. A chosen child, often from the older grades, wears a white robe and a crown of candles, leading a quiet procession while singing the Santa Lucia song. As she and her companions move through the school, they offer light, warmth, and homemade treats, reminding us all of the power of kindness, service, and inner light during the darkest days of the year.

Candlemas, observed on or around February 2nd, marks the midpoint between winter and spring—a time of quiet anticipation and growing light. In Waldorf schools, this festival is honored with candle-making, songs, and simple ceremonies that reflect the inner light beginning to stir in both the earth and in ourselves. At WSD, Candlemas offers a moment of reflection, hope, and reverence for nature’s slow awakening, reminding us that even the smallest flame can brighten the path ahead.

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.