Written By: Lillian Pereira

The rows of books lining the room. The smell of popcorn and pretzels packing the gym. The sounds of excited shoppers, looking to get their holiday gifts early. With all of this around, one can only be in one place: the Holiday Boutique and Book Fair. A Parent Association tradition that has developed since the 1970s, this year’s festivities, co-chaired by Jaclyn Shanahan, Despina Hyde Gandhi, and Katelin Berkowitz, were a wonderful example of the strength of the RCDS community. On November 21st and 22nd, the Nelson Athletic Center gym, instead of being filled with balls and nets, was stuffed to the walls with books, food, and all sources of other goods. In terms of statistics, according to co-chair Katelin Berkowitz, the fair featured a “newly expanded selection of 30+ boutique vendors,” whose quality goods were bought up by attendees of all ages. These included sections such as fashion, jewelry and accessories, toys, home decor, a pet store, and a candy store. As a special treat, Lower School Librarian Jay Fung brought out some surprising special guests to the fair on Thursday for an afternoon story time. For those who came for the food, the fair was stocked to the brim with coffee and pastries, served by members of our Parent’s Association. Throughout the two days, parents of students from Pre-K to twelfth grade volunteered to sell delicious treats or record students’ purchases. Rye Country Day students and parents could conveniently charge all purchases to your RCDS account. As the Holiday Boutique and Book Fair is one of the school’s largest fundraisers, the funds raised from purchases will go towards improving our school. 20% of all sales will be delegated to fund financial aid, school programs, and equipment grants. “The Holiday Boutique and Book Fair is a fun way to kick off the holiday season as a community,” said Hyde. “It really aligns with our school’s theme of connection this year,” added Shanahan. Thank you to wonderful Parents Association members for organizing this special event for us all. Go Wildcats!