The New School Montessori Center is hosting its second annual festival Friday, October 26, at its location on Sunset Lake Road, Holly Springs. Scheduled from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., admission is $5 for adults over 18, or $12 for children ages 2 to 17. Admission is free for children two and under. Free parking is available.

The theme of this year’s festival is big cats. In light of the theme, the New School’s “To the Rescue” festival is partnering with the big cat rescue and wildlife sanctuary organization, Carolina Tiger Rescue. The annual fundraiser will donate a portion of the festival proceeds to Carolina Tiger Rescue. The festival will feature an exhibit by the rescue organization, with an emphasis on conservation of these charismatic and majestic animals.

Why big cats? Children of all ages are fascinated by them and big cats are among the world’s most endangered species. The New School’s Program Director, Julie Schroer, emphasizes how the festival theme connects with the school’s mission. “We strive to foster a love of nature and a sense of individual and global responsibility in our children. Teaching them about global issues such as endangered big cats and empowering children with the knowledge they need to have an impact is an essential part of their development,” she said.

In addition to the Carolina Tiger Rescue exhibit, each class will present the results of its research into their selected big cat at the school’s booth at the festival. But at its heart, the festival is a celebration of the wonder and beauty of our natural world. “While big cat conservation is an important topic,” said Ms. Schroer, “It’s important to have a positive message to encourage interest in these beautiful creatures, so we want to celebrate big cats as part of our fall festival.” Indeed, the event will have a carnival atmosphere with live music, a magician, vendor booths, monster slides, a festival dinner, a bake sale and raffle.

Besides admission fees to help their worthy cause, the school has enjoyed sponsorship from local businesses. “The festival is a great opportunity for local businesses to show that they care not only about our community, but about the wider world as well,” Ms. Schroer said. “We are so excited by this partnership with Carolina Tiger Rescue. Every one can play their part, this is not just about the school, but about our community and its role in making a difference to create a world that is better for our children and for the wild animals that excite and inspire them.”

Via EPR Network
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