Athletics, Arts, and Activities Blog

April 11th, 2025
Athletics, Arts, and Activities

Rebekka Jensen –  Athletics, Arts, and Activities Coordinator

Dear ISY Community,

Exploring the Myanmar Thingyan Holiday: A Celebration of Water, Arts, and Community Activities

As the warmth of April arrives, Myanmar comes alive with the vibrant celebration of the Thingyan Water Festival. Recognized as the traditional New Year, Thingyan offers a unique blend of cultural activities, artistic expressions, and communal joy, making it a perfect topic for our Athletics, Arts, and Activities blog.

Water-Splashing Fun and Communal Joy

Thingyan typically spans four to five days in mid-April and marks the transition to the Burmese New Year. The festival is best known for its exuberant water fights, where people of all ages take to the streets with buckets and hoses, transforming cities into playful arenas of water-splashing fun. This lively tradition symbolizes the washing away of the old year’s misdeeds and brings communities together in a spirit of renewal.

Celebrating through Arts and Performances

Beyond the water festivities, Thingyan is a celebration of Myanmar’s rich artistic heritage. The festival features traditional music, dance, and cultural performances, filling the air with rhythmic tunes and visual splendor. These artistic activities highlight the country’s creativity and offer insight into its diverse cultural expressions.

Community, Kindness, and Renewal

Thingyan is also a time for kindness and charity, with many people engaging in acts of goodwill, such as offering free food and supporting charitable causes. It’s a period to reconnect with family and friends, sharing meals and strengthening bonds. The festival culminates with prayers and offerings at pagodas, representing a fresh start and hope for the new year.

Incorporating Thingyan into Athletics and Activities

For those interested in athletic and community activities, participating in Thingyan offers a dynamic and culturally enriching experience. Whether you’re joining the water fun or enjoying the artistic showcases, Thingyan provides a platform to engage with Myanmar’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Engage with Myanmar’s Vibrant Tradition

The Thingyan Holiday is a joyous celebration that blends water, arts, and communal activities, capturing the essence of Myanmar’s cultural tapestry. It’s an opportunity to experience the vibrancy of Myanmar’s traditions first-hand, leaving you with cherished memories and inspiration.

 

ES Basketball Game Against ISM: A Learning Experience in a Supportive Atmosphere

Our recent basketball matchup between ES and ISM was more than just a game; it was a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn and grow in a supportive environment. The players demonstrated great teamwork and enthusiasm, making the game a memorable event for everyone involved.

From understanding game strategies to honing individual skills, our students embraced the challenge with positivity and sportsmanship. The supportive atmosphere provided by coaches, teammates, and spectators helped inspire our young athletes to give their best on the court.

This game was not only a display of athletic talent but also a chance for students to develop a deeper appreciation for basketball. The interaction with peers from ISM fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, adding to the educational experience.

Overall, the ES versus ISM basketball game was a valuable learning opportunity, and our students came away with newfound confidence and skills. We look forward to continued growth and more exciting games in the future!

Best regards,

Rebekka Jensen (Ms. Bekka)

Athletics, Arts, and Activities Coordinator

The International School Yangon

Upcoming Games Next Week

No Games

Match Highlights: Last Friday Through This Week:

Middle School

High School

No Games

 

 

 

 

 No Games

 

Facilities Booking and Hours

Fitness & Weight Room

  • Open: 24 hours every day

Outside Covered Court Areas

  • Open: 24 hours every day

Field

  • Closed: (under construction)

Swimming Pool

  • Open: April 18th and 21st 8:00AM – 5 PM
  • Open: April 12th and 19th 8:00AM- 12 PM 
  • Closed: Sundays
  • Closed: April 14 – 17 (Public Holiday)

GYM Court 1 & 2

  • Open: 24 hours every day

Tennis Court

  • Open:  Monday to Friday 6:30 AM – 6:00PM

    Facilities Booking Link: Facilities Booking Link

    Questions or More Information

    As always, if you have any questions about what is in this blog or anything else that you may think of related to activities or athletics please feel free to contact me at:

    rjensen@isyedu.org

    Kindest regards,

    Ms. Rebekka Jensen (Ms. Bekka)