As the sun sank over the horizon on Friday, March 1, the darkness was kept at bay by bright neon lights, flashing rides, and the fireworks that lit up the sky.
The Alphington Grammar School Twilight Festival ran from 4 to 9pm and saw over 2500 attendees come through the school gates to partake in the festivities. This included members of school council and the Greek Community.
The festival hosted a wide variety of rides, activities, and food and drink stalls. From dodgem cars and a petting zoo to souvlakia, loukoumades, burgers and even Vietnamese street food. There was something for everyone to enjoy in celebration of the multicultural community underpinned by Hellenic values that the school has become.
While attendees were enjoying the attractions and activities, the stage was home to student performances, DJ Thomas Nico, and guest alumni appearances that entertained children and adults alike throughout the night.
At the official Opening Ceremony at 7pm guests were also honoured by a Welcome to Country smoking ceremony led by local Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Yarra. Other performances on the night included the Greek Band, Latin Band, Drumline, Greek dance items, and a dragon dance, among many others. Students were given the chance to shine in front of their parents, peers, and members of the local community.
Staff, parents, and older students also volunteered their time at the stalls speckled throughout the Oval. They could be seen grilling skewers at the Souvlaki stand, supervising games of giant inflatable dart soccer, or sitting with children as they made masks for Carnavale out of sequins and glitter. The Beer Garden, which stocked the usual wines and beers plus a refreshing Aperol Spritz, was a definite highlight, as were the ice cream cart, fairy floss, and frappe stand.
Adding to the atmosphere and the source of much of the excitement were the rides and attractions. The younger children were thoroughly entertained by the turbo tubs, laughing clown game and chair-o-plane; while the older children (and adults) lined up for the dodgem cars, atomic drop slide and cyclone until the late hours of the night. It was against this backdrop of fun and laughter that many attendees sat, either at the colourful tables or on picnic blankets, as they enjoyed the night and each other’s company.
The night was brought to a close by a fireworks display at 8:45pm. The stunning showcase was the perfect way to end the festival and celebrate 35 years of excellence.
“We would like to express our thanks for the support of our school and wider community on the night. It was an amazing display, not only of how far the school has come, but of the strong school spirit and values our community continues to uphold,” said the Principal, Dr Vivianne Nikou.
Register now for Alphington Grammar’s Open Day on Saturday 16 March 2024, 10AM to 1PM at alphington.vic.edu.au.
