This season, SWAN students shared the joy of music and the spirit of giving with the wider Lancaster community through two special performances that brought smiles, warmth, and holiday cheer to all who gathered.
Singing the Spirit of Giving at Gifts That Give Hope
On Sunday, our students performed at Lancaster’s Gifts That Give Hope Fair, filling the space with festive music as shoppers explored more than 30 nonprofit organizations and a vibrant marketplace of holiday gifts. The fair featured fair trade and socially responsible goods, environmentally friendly and ethically sourced products, “business for good” vendors, and delicious tastes from around the world offered by some of Lancaster’s favorite food vendors.
As students sang beloved holiday songs, their music set the tone for generosity and goodwill, reminding everyone that giving, especially during the holidays, can take many forms. We are deeply grateful to the Gifts That Give Hope Committee for inviting our students to perform and be part of such a meaningful community event.
A Day of Service, Song, and Learning at Central Market
On Friday, students enjoyed a memorable field trip centered on service and celebration. Before heading to Lancaster Central Market, students stopped at The Salvation Army, where they each picked out winter coats, hats, and gloves to make sure they were warm and ready for the cold days ahead.
Bundled up and full of excitement, students joined members of the Lancaster Rotary at the Salvation Army kettle outside Lancaster Central Market, where they performed a joyful selection of holiday favorites, including “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Feliz Navidad,” and more. With props, theatrics, and plenty of enthusiasm, the performance concluded with an entertaining rendition of “The 12 Days of Christmas” that delighted passersby and spread Christmas cheer throughout the market.
After their performance, students were surprised with a special opportunity: thanks to a generous donor, each student received $5 to spend at the market however they chose. With so many vendors to explore, decisions were tough! Students enjoyed savory foods, sweet treats, and one thoughtful student made sure to save a little to buy flowers for her mother. It was a meaningful, hands-on learning experience that combined generosity, choice, and gratitude.
Thank You, Community Partners
We are incredibly thankful to the Lancaster Rotary, The Salvation Army, and the School District of Lancaster for helping make this special day of music and service possible. Experiences like these allow our students not only to perform, but to connect, give back, and experience the joy of being part of a caring community.
This Christmas season, our students reminded us all that music has the power to bring people together, and that spreading joy is one of the greatest gifts of all.
