Halloween at New School Lyon is far more than just a party. At New School Lyon, we place cultural discovery at the heart of our teaching. This month, our pupils celebrated Halloween, an iconic festival in American culture. The event brought a touch of mystery and joy to our school. More than just a moment of entertainment, Halloween is for us a real opportunity for learning. It lets pupils immerse themselves in traditions from elsewhere.
The origins of Halloween in the United States
Halloween has its roots in Celtic traditions, particularly the festival of Samhain, marking the end of the harvest. Brought to the United States by Irish and Scottish immigrants in the 19th century, it transformed into the celebration we know today. Costumes, decorated pumpkins, and the traditional sweet hunt set the rhythm of this popular festival. At New School Lyon, we want our pupils to understand the history of this celebration. They can then appreciate all its cultural richness and its place in American heritage.
The pumpkin-carving contest: creativity on show
This year, the highlight of our Halloween celebration was the very first edition of our pumpkin-carving contest. Every willing child got to give their imagination free rein by decorating their pumpkin. Scary smiles, colourful designs, or surprising creations - the pupils showed plenty of creativity. The jury, made up of teachers and staff, had the difficult task of choosing between these wonderful creations. Congratulations to Youssef, a Year 3 pupil, for his particularly successful pumpkin! Special mentions were also awarded, such as "most girly" or "most on theme", chosen by the Parents' Association. The event strengthened the bond between pupils, their families, and our school community.
Learning while having fun: cultural immersion and memories
At New School Lyon, we believe every celebration is a chance to learn differently. Halloween allows our pupils to discover a new culture while having fun. They dive into American legends and customs, enriching their curiosity and open-mindedness. Throughout the year, we continue this approach with festivals from many cultures. Every festive activity becomes a life lesson. These moments of sharing create unforgettable memories, whether it's the pumpkin contest, exchanges with teachers, or the general excitement of the celebration.
Halloween 2024 will remain etched in the memory of our pupils. It was a highlight of creativity, discovery, and togetherness. Congratulations to all our little artists for their enthusiasm and talent! A big thank-you also to families for taking part in this memorable event.
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