(Picture from the Eco News, 2024)
We are thrilled to share the highlights of our recent event, The Festive Hangout, which took place on Saturday, 23rd November, at the Salvation Army Citadel in the city centre. This year, we transformed our usual Huge Hangout event into a more festive celebration, making it even more special for our community.
Typically held in October for World Mental Health Day, we decided to move the event to late November, giving us additional time to reimagine and enhance the experience. The result was a warm and welcoming festive gathering that brought joy to everyone who attended.
Our youth and community team poured their hearts into decorating the venue, making sure it was brimming with holiday spirit. From twinkling lights to festive ornaments, the transformation was nothing short of magical. A huge thank you to everyone who lent a hand in turning the Citadel into a winter wonderland.
We were also delighted to welcome festive Princesses (children's entertainers) who brought the Christmas spirit to life, spreading smiles and holiday cheer to our young attendees.
The day was filled with live music performances from participants in our All In Music (AIM) project. Their talent and energy added an extra layer of joy to the event and showcased the incredible work they’ve been doing.
To keep the festive fun rolling, we had a variety of family-friendly activities, including craft stalls, gift stalls, and cake stalls. These activities not only provided entertainment but also helped create a sense of togetherness for families and friends who joined us.
The Festive Hangout was a massive success, filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of festive cheer. Beyond the festivities, the event also served a meaningful purpose: raising awareness for mental health and fostering positivity within our community.
This incredible day wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing team, volunteers, and the community. Together, we created a memorable event that brought joy and connection to everyone involved.
Thank you once again to everyone who made The Festive Hangout such a success. Stay tuned for more updates, and keep an eye out for our recap video – we can’t wait to share more of the magic with you!
Wishing you all a happy and festive holiday season.
Southend YMCA Team
Comments