Last Friday, glowing lanterns, cheerful performances and shared moments brought our school community together for the IGS Intercultural Lantern Festival. Children, parents and staff from different cultural backgrounds celebrated an evening centred on solidarity, kindness and belonging.

Drawing inspiration from lantern traditions, the festival invited everyone to reflect on a shared message: we can support one another, respond to others’ needs and help build a community in which everyone feels included. The lanterns became a symbol of the warmth and hope we create together.

The evening opened with songs from our kindergarten children. Their voices welcomed families and guests, setting a joyful tone for the celebration.

Our Secondary students then brought a story of compassion to the stage, accompanied by a horse. Through the scene of a knight sharing her cloak with someone in need, they illustrated what solidarity can look like in practice: noticing another person’s difficulties and choosing to help. The performance encouraged students to see sharing and mutual support as values that connect people across cultures.

Following the performance, the knight and her horse led the lantern parade as children and families walked together carrying their glowing lanterns. Each small light contributed to a bright procession through the evening. A fitting image of a diverse community united by care for one another.

Afterwards, the bonfire provided a welcoming place to gather. Our kindergarten children offered homemade goose-shaped biscuits to parents and guests, turning the evening’s message of sharing into a simple, thoughtful gesture. Families enjoyed conversations and time together, strengthening connections across the IGS Community.

At IGS, intercultural learning comes to life through shared experiences. Our Lantern Festival offered an opportunity to encounter a cultural tradition while exploring values that resonate far beyond its origins. By performing, walking and sharing together, students experienced solidarity as something they can practise in everyday life.

Many small lights can brighten a night. Many small acts of kindness can strengthen a community. This was the spirit of our Lantern Festival, and one we hope to carry into each school day.