First published in the May 5 print issue of the Pasadena Outlook.
Photos courtesy of
Westridge School
Hundreds of members of the Westridge School community attended the Westridge Parent Association Night Market on Saturday, April 23. The Night Market — an annual event focused on connection and shared cultures through food, games, activities and entertainment from around the globe — was made even more special in that it was the first all-school gathering of the year.
Student affinity, parent cultural groups and Westridge classes had tables to share cultures from all around the world, including Latinx/Hispanic, Polish, Korean, Jewish, Armenian, Chinese, Middle Eastern and North African heritages. They educated event attendees through posters, cultural items and activities such as hand painting Chinese silk fans and henna application.
Next to cultural booths, a student bazaar was bustling as students sold goods such as handmade soaps, upcycled jewelry, crocheted hats and screen-printed tote bags. There were also demonstrations throughout the evening including an international fashion show (featuring traditional outfits from countries including Ecuador, Japan, Morocco and Nigeria) and a Westridge Glee Club performance as well as double dutch and Tai Chi activities. Head of School Elizabeth J. McGregor was formally deemed “Westridge Cricket Captain” before a cricket match on Frank Field.
Attendees snacked on food from across the world — from Korean “japchae” to tamales to saffron ice cream. The International Bake Sale featured sweets for all to partake. Twenty percent of proceeds from the bazaar and group sales went toward The Elizabeth J. McGregor Endowment Fund, a newly established fund supporting Westridge’s diversity, equity, inclusion and justice efforts.
