The second annual Lantern Walk, hosted by The Nest, took place in Washington Park to help the community better adjust to the change in season.
The transition from autumn to winter can be difficult for many of us, especially with the days becoming shorter and nightfall approaching faster after daylight savings took place.
The Lantern Walk event began at the west side of Washington Park with a brief sharing of the historical significance of lantern walks around the world. Participants of many ages gathered together for hot chocolate, song-singing, DIY lantern making, and an evening walk through the park, illuminated by the lights of small handheld lanterns.
“As a student, you don’t typically get much engagement with anyone other than other students,” said Delanee Miller, a current UW student, “it was nice to go out and involve myself in the community.”
The Nest, an indoor play space for children in Laramie, encouraged all members of the community to join in on all of the activities and the ceremonial lantern walk. Their mission is to provide a safe space for families to play, learn, and grow together.
“It’s so nice to have community events like this,.” said Mary Katherine Scott, a Laramie community member who brought her 2-year-old son, Rex, with her to the event. “We had a really fun time. It was nice to be out here, the weather was nice. And we got to do something that was a little bit different.”
Many families went to spend quality time together and to feel a better sense of belonging with their community. Infants, toddlers, and children were excited to explore the park at sunset, wearing their winter coats and carrying the lanterns that they had made.
“It was awesome to be involved in an activity that was geared toward all members of the community and that wasn’t just all about drinking like many other events in Laramie seem to be,” said Miller.
This event was alcohol-free, with hot chocolate being the only beverage being served at the park in the evening, something that Laramie members may not be used to seeing often.
“I would highly recommend going next year if you can, it was a lot of fun” said Jonny Allred, a Laramie community member and former UW student.
