CHESHIRE, CT — Cheshire Academy will bring Lights of Hope back to campus for a second year on Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., continuing a "beloved Cheshire tradition rooted in service, community and the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors," according to officials.
Students, faculty and staff will illuminate Slaughter Field and walkways throughout the school grounds with luminaries, "creating a beautiful display that celebrates the power of coming together," according to a news release.
The public is invited to "stroll through, enjoy hot cocoa and take in the dazzling lanterns and inspiring messages," according to the news release.
Driving through campus will also be an option for those who prefer.
"Lights of Hope reminds us what matters most, and we look forward to bringing it back this year," said Colleen Altenburger, Dean of Students at Cheshire Academy. "It gives our students, faculty and staff an opportunity to serve others and share in something meaningful. We're so grateful to the Walsh family and Dr. Petit for helping us carry this tradition forward, and to everyone who made last year's celebration so special."
Read more from the news release below:
Founded in 2005 by Cheshire residents Don and Jenifer Walsh, Lights of Hope began as a small gathering of neighbors lighting luminaries along their street. In 2007, it grew into a town-wide tradition honoring the memories of Jennifer, Hayley and Michaela Petit. Each November, thousands of luminaries lit up Cheshire streets, raising funds for local organizations, including the Cheshire Community Food Pantry, Cheshire Youth and Social Services, and The Petit Family Foundation, led by Dr. William Petit, Jr. Over nearly two decades, the evening raised more than $1.25 million for scholarships and charitable causes before concluding in 2022.
Cheshire Academy had participated in Lights of Hope for many years. In 2025, with the blessing of the Walsh family and Dr. Petit, the school brought the tradition to its own campus, led by dedicated faculty members and student leaders from the Class of 2026.
This year, the illuminated word "hope" will once again take center stage on Cheshire Academy's open-air athletic field, surrounded by translations in the many languages represented across the Cheshire Academy community. The celebration also reflects the school's motto, Ich Dien ("I serve"), through an opportunity for the community to support the Cheshire Food Pantry and The Petit Family Foundation. Optional donations can be made during the event or, for those unable to attend, via Venmo to @CA-CLO with the memo "Lights of Hope 2026."
Preparations will take place throughout the coming week, culminating in the campus-wide event celebrating a tradition that continues to bring the Cheshire community together through service, remembrance, and hope.
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