December brought chilly breezes and heavy rains, signaling the arrival of another winter season. While summer saw SOers enjoying bright adventures at Summer Camp, winter offered them a festive season filled with diverse activities that brought everyone closer together.

As the final month of 2024 wrapped up, the Winter Festival created a cozy, joy-filled space at Sakura-Olympia, where every moment became a cherished memory.

Endless Joy at the Winter Festival for Sakura Kindergarten

At Sakura Kindergarten, the Winter Festival became a space bursting with vibrant colors and laughter. After celebrating the birthdays of December children, the little ones eagerly joined in the lively music and exciting games of the Winter Festival Day.

Happy Birthday to Our December Stars

The most memorable moment was the “Golden Bell Challenge” competition among Fuji, Yuri, and Himawari classes. With confidence and quick thinking, the children answered simple yet engaging questions. Every correct answer brought cheers of excitement, and when Minh Chau from Himawari 3 rang the Golden Bell, the entire event erupted in joy.

The Golden Bell Challenge

Congratulations to Minh Chau from Himawari 3 for Winning the Golden Bell

In addition to the Golden Bell competition, the children unleashed their creativity with activities such as decorating Santa’s face, embellishing reindeer and snowmen, and testing their precision with chimney ball-throwing games. Each game brought joyful laughter and unforgettable moments, creating a warm and love-filled winter season.

The kids enjoyed the games in Winter Festival

Winter Harmony Festival for Olympia Primary and Middle School: Spreading Love and Celebrating Uniqueness

The students of Olympia Primary, Middle, and High School also had their vibrant ways to enjoy Winter 2024.

In Primary School, children eagerly participated in writing letters to Santa Claus. To earn their favorite gifts, they enthusiastically shared their good deeds—helping friends, assisting parents with chores, or simply making small academic improvements. The gifts they wished for were simple yet heartwarming, reflecting their hopes for happiness and joy.

Letters to Santa Claus from Primary SOers

Classrooms buzzed with excitement during the gift exchange activities. Beyond the thrill of opening mysterious "blind boxes," the activity taught children the value of sharing, gratitude, and appreciating one another's kindness. Each gift carried a heartfelt message, connecting little hearts in a united community.

Joyful Moments of Gift Exchange

The highlight of the Winter Festival was the “Melody of Winter” concert performed by the talented Middle School artists. Featuring nine performances including choirs, piano solos, and violin performances, the students recreated enchanting scenes from Western fairy tales. The harmonized voices and melodies told stories of love, hope, and resilience, deeply touching the hearts of parents, teachers, and everyone present.

>>> Enjoy the Performances in “Melody of Winter”

In the “Respect Differences Day” activities, Primary and Middle School students expressed their individuality through colorful and creative socks. Each day carried a theme—Green Monday, Bold Black-and-White Tuesday, and Creative Wednesday—reminding everyone that everyone is special in their own way and every uniqueness deserves to be celebrated.

Vibrant Winter Colors Festival for Olympia High School: All is One, One is All

The “Vibrant Winter Colors Festival” carried the spirit of “All is One, One is All”. This spirit was most evident in the creatively decorated classrooms. Under the guidance of teachers, students transformed their classrooms into vibrant spaces, where every corner told stories of unity, creativity, and shared vision.

The Festive Atmosphere in Olympia High School Classrooms

The “Equality Day” brought students and teachers closer as they addressed each other as "brother" and "sister", breaking down barriers and creating a warm, family-like environment.

The gift exchange added to the festive spirit, with every little gift symbolizing sincere affection and hopes for a bright new year.

Heartwarming Gift Exchange Moments

In a unique creative display, students presented their “Knowledge Christmas Trees”. These weren’t built from traditional branches and decorations but crafted from inspiring quotes, scientific theorems, and meaningful lessons. Some trees even featured recycled materials, spreading an important message about environmental protection.

Stunning Knowledge Christmas Trees by Olympia High School Students

The Winter Festival at Sakura-Olympia was more than just a time for fun and celebration; it was an opportunity to share love, foster connections, and create lasting memories. Every moment was like the morning sun, carrying hope for a brighter and more beautiful new year.