Netzaberg Elementary Students and Families Shine Bright During Traditional German Lantern Walk
Kindergarten and first grade students at Netzaberg Elementary School gathered with their families and local officials from the village of Eschenbach for a heartwarming celebration of light and community during the school’s annual Traditional German Lantern Walk on Nov. 4.
The event, held under a starlit autumn sky, blended cultural learning and creativity. Organized by Host Nation teacher Frau Waechter, music teacher Mrs. Lynch, art teacher Ms. McPhail, P.E. coach Mr. Gray, and drama club sponsor Mrs. Hill, the evening brought together art, music, and storytelling in celebration of German tradition and togetherness.
In the weeks leading up to the walk, kindergarten and first grade students crafted colorful, handmade lanterns during art class with McPhail. Each lantern, glowing softly from within, reflected both the individuality of each child and the shared light of the school community.
As dusk settled, families gathered outside the school, lanterns in hand, ready to begin their walk. Lynch and the Netzaberg Elementary School Chorus opened the evening with traditional German lantern songs, their cheerful melodies filling the cool night air. The children joined in, proudly singing “Laterne, Laterne, Sonne, Mond und Sterne” as they paraded around the school grounds, their lanterns glowing brightly in the darkness.
Adding a special touch, students from the drama club performed a short skit retelling the story of St. Martin, the Roman soldier known for sharing his cloak with a beggar on a cold night. The performance reminded attendees of the values of generosity, compassion, and community that lie at the heart of the tradition.
The success of the evening was supported by Coach Gray and volunteers from units located at Tower and Rose Barracks, who assisted with setup, refreshments, and cleanup. Their participation reflected the strong bond between the school and the local military community.
Families followed the lantern-lit path together, then enjoyed hot cocoa, warm kinderpunsch, and traditional sweet German treats. The evening was filled with conversation, laughter, and a shared sense of belonging. For many, it was a chance to experience a beloved German custom firsthand, and for the students, it was a magical way to connect classroom learning with local culture.
Frau Waechter expressed joy at the community’s participation, noting, “When we share our light with others, the world shines a little brighter. Just as St. Martin once shared his cloak, we shared joy, warmth, and kindness tonight.”
The Lantern Walk has become a cherished annual tradition at Netzaberg Elementary — a celebration of light, kindness, and cultural connection that brings the community together and creates lasting memories for students and families alike.
