Has your old prom dress been gathering dust? Do you regret spending so much money on that groomsmen’s tuxedo to only wear it once?
Let your Sunday best be wasted no longer; the Newark Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1060 will host a Valentine’s Day adult prom on Saturday, Feb. 15. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m., with a pulled pork and chicken dinner catered by Texas Roadhouse following at 7 p.m.
Guests are invited to dance their way through the decades to a curated playlist of hit songs spanning from the 1950s through the 2000s. The dress code for the event is entirely optional, but an eclectic style created with everything from old prom gear, to new wedding clothes, and fun thrift-store finds is encouraged.
In addition to dancing, drinks, and dinner, the prom will feature a silent auction including gifts and experiences donated by a variety of local businesses.
All proceeds from the event will go to the VFW, which will use the money to support veterans in the local community, maintain its facilities, and disperse over $100,000 annually to charities within Licking County.
Historically, the VFW has hosted Valentine’s Day events for members, but decided to open the event to the public this year.
“The VFW has always done a Valentine’s dinner for members,” said Wendy Ragnone, who helped organize the event. “But this year, we decided ‘let’s turn it into an adult prom,’ because we want to get dressed up! We started planning it about a year ago.”
This event is not exclusive to military veterans, and anyone looking for something fun to do on a Saturday night is encouraged to come.
“It’s a great place to come hang out, especially to listen to some of the older guys and their stories,” Ragnone said. “There’s a lot of support here.”
Those looking to attend or support the VFW should contact Ragnone at (520) 481-4289 to inquire about ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and donations.
Harry Quillen writes for TheReportingProject.org, the nonprofit news organization of Denison University’s Journalism program, which is supported by generous donations from readers. Sign up for The Reporting Project newsletter here.