A Heart-Warming Night of Light, Laughter & Tradition - Our Members Holiday Party

Yesterday’s Members Holiday Party was one of those evenings that truly shows what community is all about. Even though the weather didn’t quite cooperate, we replanned -and our wonderful, brave members still headed out into the rain to light the first two stretches of the Lanternweg.

The Brave Lighting Team

The Lanternweg here in Ägeri is a long-time December tradition. Families and friends can walk the candle-lit path in the evenings through to the first week of January. It’s simple, peaceful, and such a special way to experience the season together.

Our team was truly unstoppable. Lantern by lantern, we read the beautiful and inspiring messages written by our community. One in particular really stayed with me - a message about loving what you do. In those moments, it honestly felt like our members were giving something back to Ägeri.

And then came one of the sweetest sights of the night: a tiny little helper, hidden under her Peppa Pig umbrella, helping us finish the job. Smiles everywhere - even in the rain.

From Rain & Lanterns to Warmth & Wishes at the Pfadiheim

Right after the lighting, we made our way back to the Pfadiheim Unterägeri for Part 2 of our celebration. Inside, it was warm and cosy. We gathered together, sang Christmas carols, danced a little, and shared some of our wishes for 2026.

Then our very special guests arrived…

Samichlaus and two Schmutzli came in to the absolute delight of the children and their families. Samichlaus, portrayed by Urs Baumann, told a beautiful story about a village that could only solve a puzzle by working together. It was such a meaningful story - especially for those who are new here and still building connections. That little puzzle felt like a perfect symbol of what we were all doing together that evening.

Giving it our best

At one point, Samichlaus asked if we had any talents to share. We all paused… looked at each other… and decided that yes - we absolutely do. So together, with a room full of children and adults, we sang Jingle Bells at the top of our lungs. Not perfect, not polished, just full of joy and laughter.

He then took time with each child, spoke about their successes this year, and gently reminded us all that we probably could still work a bit on keeping our rooms tidy. The room was filled with laughter, bright eyes, and so much joy. A big and very heartfelt thank-you to the Samichlaus Gruppe Ägeri for giving our families such a meaningful evening.

A Night That Truly Belonged to the Families

THANK YOU

This year, our holiday party was more family-focused than in the past - and it felt incredibly special watching the little ones embrace the tradition, listen to the stories, and delight in all the sweets. The excitement, the laughter, and the shared moments made the entire evening deeply heart-warming.

Rain or no rain, last night showed once again what kind of community we have here. Thank you to every single member who came out, helped, supported, joined in, and made this night what it was. This is exactly what giving back - and growing together - looks like.

A Personal Thank You from Me

For me personally, it is nights like this that truly make me feel connected and at home here in Ägeri. This time of year, the distance from family and lifelong friends can feel especially heavy. Some of us are not able to travel back and spend time with those who mean the most to us.

Moments like last night help create new connections and beautiful memories with our children. Five of the families in the room were new to Ägeri - and to Switzerland. Watching them celebrate the start of Christmas and learn about their new country’s traditions was incredibly special. This is how bonds are built. This is how a place begins to feel like home.

See you next year! And if you’re here for Christmas, be sure to check out our much-loved Annual Christmas Day Dip and Toast - a brave splash, a warm drink, and a wonderful way to start the day together. xx Jody