A Winter Festival Near Pretoria, Rooted in Waldorf Tradition
Each year, as winter deepens and the nights grow long, our Waldorf School community gathers to celebrate a meaningful seasonal tradition — the St. John’s Festival.
This midwinter festival symbolises inner courage, personal transformation, and the light we carry within. Through song, storytelling, lantern walks, and firelight, we honour the warmth and connection that live within each of us — even in the coldest season.
At Waldorf schools worldwide, the St. John’s Festival is a beloved part of the seasonal rhythm. Here at The Waldorf School at Rosemary Hill, it has long been a sacred time of reflection and togetherness for our learners and families.
A New Chapter: The Rosemary Hill Fire Festival
This year, we’re opening the festival to the public for the very first time. In collaboration with Rosemary Hill, we are excited to welcome you to the inaugural Fire Festival — a family-friendly winter event filled with live music, creative workshops, delicious food, and glowing firelight.
While the heart of the St. John’s celebration remains, the Fire Festival has grown into something new — an invitation to the greater community to experience a festival that celebrates courage, connection, and light in the darkest part of the year.
What to Expect at the Fire Festival
This night market and winter celebration offers something for everyone:
- Workshops: Lantern Making, Traditional African Drumming, Candle Pouring, Ancient Fire Making and more
- Lantern Walk: A moving and magical community walk
- Live Music by the incredible Lungelo
- Food Trucks: Comforting winter food and hearty meals
- Warm Winter Drinks: Glühwein, hot chocolate, and more
- Craft & Artisan Market: Beautiful handmade goods
- Children’s Activities and warm gathering spaces
Why We Call It the Fire Festival
Fire has always been a powerful symbol in the St. John’s Festival — representing purification, renewal, and the inner flame that guides us through darkness.
We chose the name Fire Festival to make this tradition more accessible and inviting for the wider public, while still honouring the meaning at its core. It’s a celebration of community, courage, and the warmth that comes from gathering together in shared light.
Festival Details
Date: Friday, 20 June 2025
Market Times: 3PM – 8PM
Location: Rosemary Hill Farm, just east of Pretoria
Entry: A small parking fee per vehicle supports safety, medical services, and traffic management. Fees can be viewed on the Rosemary Hill website.
Join Us
Whether you’re a long-time member of the Waldorf community or discovering us for the first time, the Rosemary Hill Fire Festival invites you into a world of warmth, music, craft, and celebration.
Come and walk with lanterns. Warm your hands by the fire. And carry the light forward with us.
For more information on the event, click on the link below: