Gatesworth Stories —
Holidays at The Gatesworth
Coming Together for the Season
The holidays are a time for celebration – and a time for community. At The Gatesworth, there is no shortage of festive events, bringing together residents and their families for the season.
“The Gatesworth is a special place anytime of the year, but especially during the winter holidays,” says Janine Lawler, event and entertainment director. “The sense of community that our residents feel is so evident during this festive time, when we are preparing and celebrating together.”
The events calendar at The Gatesworth is always full, but never as much as in December. Upcoming seasonal events include trimming the trees in The Gatesworth’s living rooms, a special Holiday Tea, an appearance by the incredibly energetic “Dancing Santas,” a holiday concert by The Gatesworth Singers, youth choir performances, Menorah lighting, a New Year’s Eve party and more.
There are plenty of festive outings as well, including seeing the Campbell House Museum decked out for the holidays and the December dinner out on the town followed by a holiday light tour.
“One of my favorite traditions is attending Breakfast with Santa, an event I look forward to every year,” says resident Janet Parker. “It’s such a special time, and my grandchildren love joining me for it. The staff go above and beyond to make the event festive and memorable. It’s such a fun way to celebrate the season and spend time together as a family.”
Lawler adds that The Gatesworth is always working to incorporate residents’ traditions into events to make them feel at home.
“Our residents aren’t bashful; if it’s a tradition or culture that I’m not familiar with, they will step up and pitch in to instruct me,” she says. “Honestly, I’ve learned so much, and I am so honored that our residents not only help me but invite me to take part in many of their traditions and celebrations. It goes back to that strong sense of community. Our residents are all respectful of each other’s preferences.”
For Parker, one of the biggest highlights of living at The Gatesworth is the food, and the community’s award-winning Chef Brian Hardy and his team will be busy this holiday season, offering up delectable treats for the Holiday Tea, Breakfast with Santa, and more – as well as incredible dinners for Christmas and Hanukkah.
“The food is delicious, and Chef Hardy and his team always make the holidays feel extra special,” Parker says.
Having lived at The Gatesworth since 2018, Parker is also involved in the Resident Association, where she helps book the entertainment hosted by the community. She explains The Gatesworth’s events are both enjoyable and a great way to bring everyone together.
If you or a loved one has been thinking about moving into an independent living community, Parker and Lawler encourage making it a New Year’s resolution to take the next step. ‘Don’t wait!’ they suggest—discover all that The Gatesworth has to offer.
“Moving here has been a great decision for me,” Parker says. “The community is supportive, and I’ve found it to be a wonderful place to live. If you’re thinking about independent living, The Gatesworth is a fantastic option.”
