Annual Father Daughter Dance Draws A Royal Crowd

Eighty-three dads and daughters dined and danced the night away at the annual Des Plaines Park District Royal Ball, on Saturday, February 9. The event drew 36 couples to the enchanted evening held in the Royal Ballroom at the Administrative and Leisure Center.

Young princesses and their dance partners strolled down the red carpet, dressed in their finest and were announced by DJ Jeff Parcell. The evening began with catered faire, after which the lords and ladies lined up to have their portraits taken courtesy of the Des Plaines Camera Club.

After dinner, the Des Plaines Park District’s in-house dance company, Artistry in Motion, performed several pieces from their upcoming competition season. Then the Princes and Princesses took to the ballroom floor for an evening of music and dancing that spanned the generations. The most popular songs of the night included Gangnam Style, YMCA, The Chicken Dance, and hits by One Direction. Whether dancing on their fathers’ toes or in their arms, every princess knew she was truly “Daddy’s Little Girl.”

During the evening, the couples also took time out for a series of Minute to Win It Games, crafts, and coloring. The princesses ranged in age from three to fourteen, many of who annually attend the Ball. “It’s our time to hang out and celebrate,” said Paul Folino, father of three. “We have been coming for years,” added Gene Williams, “it’s our night on the town.”

For more information about Des Plaines Park District classes and events call 847-391-5700 or visit www.DPparks.org.