Download the draft programme for the fair here.
If you would like a stall at this year's Advent Fair, please contact Lin Scoffin on 01364 644230, or call the school on 01803 762528 and leave a message for Lin. Alternatively you can email fundraising@steiner-south-devon.org.
PRESS RELEASE…PRESS RELEASE…PRESS RELEASE…PRESS
STEINER SCHOOL ADVENT FAIR 24.11.2007
On Saturday 24th November 2007, the Steiner School in Dartington opens its doors again for its renowned Advent Fair and continental-style craft market. From 10am until the closing ceremony at 4.15pm, visitors will be able to enjoy some of the real ‘magic’ of the festive season, as the school is transformed into a winter wonderland. As usual, it will be bedecked with greenery and lanterns, and filled with activities for all the family, beautiful hand-crafted gifts and delicious food.
However, this year is a particularly special celebration for the school, as it opens its new hall for its first Fair. “With more space now, there will be plenty to see and do. People usually arrive early and stay until late, to make the most of this unique day out”, explains Teresa Parker, school parent and member of staff. “But as so many visitors like to come and parking is limited, we do encourage people to use buses or lift share if at all possible”.
“We like to celebrate this festival of bringing light into the darkness by preparing and sharing gifts, food and entertainment, and welcome everyone to join us”, adds teacher Almut Woolard.
Activities on offer this year include: jewel mining from a Crystal Cave; candle dipping or rolling; gingerbread decorating; making Advent Wreaths; launching an Advent wishing boat; making a glowing window star; and have a go at the forge or visit an Angel Garden. Not forgetting, of course, the roving Lucky Dip Apron and the big Winter Raffle, with fabulous prizes, as ever.
Entertainments range from puppet shows, storytelling, skipping games, a traditional Mummers Play, Advent Carols and live music throughout the day. “There really is something for all ages”, enthuses Michelle Parker, school parent and staff member. “And we are very excited this year for our children to be able to give lovely presentations to visitors in our stunning new hall. There will also be a quiet space for under-sevens and their families, away from the hubbub of the main Fair”.
Mouth-watering, home-cooked food will be available throughout the day. “This year, people will be really spoilt for choice, with various cafes serving hot soup and rolls, quiches, pasties, salads, mince pies, cakes and gateaux, hot chestnuts, mulled punch, organic waffles, spicy Indian food, fresh pizzas from the outdoor clay ovens, pancakes, gingerbread, teas, coffee and freshly pressed apple juice! And as much as possible, we use local, organic ingredients and produce from the school’s biodynamic gardens, which is part of the school’s outdoor classroom”, explains gardening teacher Ian Twist.
Bargain hunters and those looking for extra-special Christmas gifts will find plenty to choose from, with natural crafts made by school parents and children, as well as other craft traders and the school shop, offering hundreds of gifts from all over the world, as very reasonable prices – and, of course, the ever-popular secondhand clothes and toys stall.
All in all, the Steiner School’s Advent Fair makes for a memorable day out. Entry is free and you can find the school between Huxham’s Cross and Riverford Bridge on the A381 Totnes-Buckfastleigh Road. Anyone wishing to know more about the Fair, or about the school or Steiner education, can call 01803 762528 during school hours – or there will be further information available at the Fair.
Press Contact: For any queries regarding this article, please contact Sue Charman on 01548 521207 or fundraising@steiner-south-devon.org