The Burlingame Winterfest came alive on Friday, Dec. 5, as students, families, and residents gathered for the annual Christmas tree lighting. Dozens of student clubs tabled at the event, while people of all ages mingled with hot chocolates in hand.
For senior Ivana Ma, president of the American Cancer Society (ACS) club, this year’s Winterfest focused more on advocacy. She said the primary mission of ACS is not only to fundraise, but also to promote healthy habits, educate about cancer research, and raise awareness about cancer disparities.
“Last year, our mission was mainly focused around fundraising, and this year is more towards advocacy and research. We have a different focus every year,” Ma said.
In the past, the club has drawn a large number of participants at the Winterfest. Ma said she enjoyed interacting with other Burlingame clubs at the festival.
“We were just talking to Burlingame alumni, we were talking with the Robotics club, the Italian exchange program,” Ma said. “It’s just really fun to see all of the clubs there. We were also able to fundraise for our own respective mission, but also give back to our own community as well.”
Sophomore Isha Chittetti helped at the STEM Olympians table. The STEM Olympians Club organizes science education-related activities beyond the school curriculum, competes in events like the Science Olympiad and NASA Tech Rise, and aims to promote STEM in the community. At the festival, the club asked science trivia questions to kids and adults.
Chitteti said she enjoyed the fun, festive environment and seeing different clubs coordinate with and talk to each other.
“To me, it means seeing all the different people in our community interact, talking to all of them, really forming a connection between every individual,” Chitteti said. “I think that’s really important in terms of getting a closer relationship with people in the community, getting to know them better, and having a stronger bond with Burlingame itself.”
Serena Koopmans, the co-captain of the BHS Robotics Club, said the club is a “fan-favorite.” Each year, the team brings its robot, and attendees often stop by to engage with members.
“It’s really cool, because we get to engage with people of all ages, from young kids who are fascinated by the pretty colors on the robot to parents of the community who are curious as to what our club does and how their child can get involved,” Koopmans said.
Koopmans said she loves attending the Winterfest because it showcases the variety of student clubs and allows her to engage with the community.
“It’s a really positive and festive atmosphere,” Koopmans said. “We’re really looking forward to going again.”
