The Whimsically Witchy event raises money for art and music in Staunton schools

STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) – Children and families in Staunton had the opportunity to celebrate the spooky season and support a good cause at the Whimsically Witchy Trick-or-Treat event Friday evening.

In addition to being family-friendly, Whimsically Witchy is a fundraiser for the art and music programs at three Staunton elementary schools and one middle school. All money raised will benefit Bessie Weller Elementary School, McSwain Elementary School, Ware Elementary School and Shelburne Middle School. This is the first year the middle school has been included in the fundraiser.

Because of its success so far, children and families return every year and look forward to the spooky decorations.

“I saw witches, a witch pot, mummies, vampires and that was it,” said elementary school student Aurora.

Participants loved dressing up in costumes.

“I’m dressed as a ninja turtle,” said elementary school student Teddy.

“I’m Bumblebee,” said elementary school student Max.

Some appeared in pairs.

“It’s Wednesday [Addams]said elementary school students Dottie and Zoe at the same time.

Even the little ones were looking forward to presenting their costumes.

“I’m a pumpkin,” said two-year-old Lainey.

Every year “Whimsically Witchy” takes place in Camille Dierksheide’s front yard. The children walked through an elaborate display with music, lights, decorations and volunteers before receiving candy.

As a mother herself, Dierksheide wanted the event to be inclusive for all ages, so she made sure nothing was too scary for younger children.

“They came through the spooky cemetery with the witches,” said Dierksheide. “We have the nine-foot columns with the flying bats; We started the fog machine.”

As a classically trained singer, Dierksheide is passionate about music and arts programs.

“Art and music have always been important and central to me growing up, and they are usually the first to lose funding or not have enough at all. It’s really important that we support art and music.”

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