What an extraordinary day it was! Once again, our wonderful community came together to create a truly magical event.
Thanks to the collective efforts of parents, students, faculty, and staff, this year’s German Holiday Market was a resounding success.
On Saturday, December 14, 2024, our 11th Annual German Holiday Market took place in downtown Mountain View, transforming the area into a festive celebration of authentic German traditions. While the market had a slightly different setup compared to last year, it was just as large and vibrant, with food, drinks, crafts, and activities bringing joy to thousands of visitors. Although the rides had to be canceled due to the rain, the heart of the event was as strong as ever.
Despite the rainy start—setting up and delivering welcome speeches in the downpour—the spirit of our community shone through. As the day went on, the skies cleared, and beautiful rainbows arched over the market, adding to the festive atmosphere. The afternoon and evening brought a wonderful ambiance, and many visitors joined us, making the event even more special.
We were fortunate to have GISSV parent Sheila Muto and Board member and alumni parent Rachel Beckert as our main organizers once again. Their leadership and dedication were key to making this year’s market a memorable experience for all.
The market featured a diverse entertainment program, including performances by Kibili students, musical showcases from elementary and middle school students, and a lively community choir with high school students, parents, and staff. Middle schoolers managed games and the coffee and cake station, while high school students served delicious food, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all.
The German Holiday Market is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our school’s cultural diversity and the spirit of our GISSV community. We thank Mountain View Mayor Showalter Pat, German Consul General Oliver Schramm, GISSV Board President Shamala Hinrichsen, and interim Head of School Dr. Alexandra Blank for officially opening the market and adding to the festive spirit.
A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers and organizers whose tireless efforts and dedication made this event possible. Your commitment to our community is what makes GISSV so special.
From all of us at GISSV, we wish you Happy Holidays and a joyful, healthy New Year. Frohe Weihnachten, Hanukkah und Kwanzaa allen, die feiern!