Bemus Point Elementary students participated in a Thanksgiving feast sponsored by a grant from M&T Bank and the Bemus Point Library. Students read the book “The Night Before Thanksgiving.” Submitted photo

BEMUS POINT — Dressed in colonial hats made of paper, universal pre-kindergarten students simulated the original Thanksgiving feast at Bemus Point Elementary School.

With turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn and pumpkin pie, students got an early taste of Thanksgiving in Elizabeth DuBois’ and Birgit Hanson’s classrooms on Nov. 13. For the third year in a row, the event was sponsored by a grant provided by M&T Bank and the Bemus Point Library. However, this was the first year that Elegant Edibles Catering provided food for the event.

“It was wonderful,” Dubois said. “The kids really liked it and took their time and tried new things they haven’t tried before.”

In addition, students donated canned good that are set to be distributed to community members in need by the Bemus Point Library.

Coinciding with the feast, students were provided with a copy of “The Night Before Thanksgiving” written by Natasha Wing. The book was read to the student prior to the Thanksgiving feast. Library volunteers Jo Haumesser and Nancy Phoman visited the school on the day of the feast to read to the students.

Submitted photo

Students also participated in a Thanksgiving craft project in which they created turkeys out of paper and fabric.

The event began three years ago to give UPK students a better understanding of the first Thanksgiving and also to enjoy one themselves, said Principal Sonja DuBois.

“It’s a great opportunity for the kids,” she said.

Sonja DuBois said the students get to experience the structure of a Thanksgiving feast and are able to enjoy it among their peers.

The grant money covered the cost of the food, service and the copies of the book. The grant also covered the costs of a similar event held the day after on Nov. 14 at the Bemus Point Library for “toddler time” where infants were read the same book by library volunteers.

“We look forward to having it every year and are very thankful for the time and effort put into getting the grant and for M&T (Bank) helping with the feast,” Elizabeth DuBois said.