88 students from Furukawa, Japan will join in the festivities and magic of Ladysmith this holiday season for just one memorable weekend in December.
Students arrive Friday December 6th in the evening, and will be greeted by the tens of thousands of Christmas lights that Ladysmith is famous for - and by local host families, who will welcome students into their homes for an exciting, festive weekend.
Furukawa students and host families will then join in the annual Old Time Christmas event, where Ladysmith locals and families fill the streets of downtown Ladysmith as they explore vibrant First Avenue, shopping in local stores and sampling delicious treats from our local bakeries.
On Saturday evening, after a day together around the home and town, students will be immersed in Canadian culture and Christmas spirit at Ladysmith Secondary School. Students and families will decorate cookies, take pictures with Santa and enjoy a night of crafts and entertainment. In this weekends’ true spirit of cultural sharing, Furukawa students also will have the opportunity to showcase their culture through traditional dance and ceremonies.
Sunday, students will have the day at home with their host families, experiencing typical Canadian festive traditions - sipping hot chocolate, trimming the tree or participating in any number of the local events and festive opportunities that our community offers during the holiday season.
Class is in session on Monday. Students will be dropped off with their luggage and goodbyes to attend Ladysmith Secondary. They will share their culture with LSS students through workshops in Japanese writing, origami and traditions before departing on Monday afternoon.
Furukawa students look forward to spending a festive weekend with their Canadian host families. The enriching experience of sharing cultures creates memories that can last for generations and builds relationships that can last a lifetime.
To make this a success, LSS needs Host Families to welcome them into their homes! Compensation will be provided. If you are interested in hosting a student December 6-9, please contact Christine Balatti at cbalatti@mlihomestay.com or 250 619-6605.