By Alex Cash (Photo Courtesy of the Jackson Rec Dept.)
Jackson, MI – Soon, hundreds of young girls will be donning their best dresses, fixing their hair and painting their nails. They will be getting ready for a very special date, with the number one man in their life, their father.
Friday, February 2nd and Saturday, February 3rd is the City of Jackson Parks and Recreation Daddy Daughter Dance and young ladies aged pre-K to eighth grade are invited. Two identical events take place to offer more opportunity for everyone to join.
This year, the event celebrates 20 years of girls twirling their dresses. In 1998, the event was started by current director Kelli Hoover and over the years the event has grown more and more in popularity. Moving around to different locations over the years, it is now held at Gene Davis and Sons Banquet Hall.
Special Events and Youth Program Supervisor, Erika Borck says they are thankful to have such a large space to accommodate all of their guests. They are expecting 400 guests each night of the dance.
For $15.00 per person, guests receive snacks and refreshments catered by Gene Davis and Sons, a beautiful corsage from Designs by Judy, a professional photo by Hal Folk Photography, and delicious treats from the chocolate fountain provided by Gilbert Chocolates. The $15.00 rate applies to those who live and attend Jackson Public Schools. All others are welcome for the rate of $20.00 per person.
Tony Berlanga has taken his two daughters Mackenna, 10, and Isabella, 6, to the event for the past six years. “The girls are really excited and I’m pumped too. It helps them to be excited on a particular day and to spend time together.”
Tony’s two daughters get treated to a new dress and shoes especially for this day. At home, before taking some pictures, they do their nails, hair, and wear just a touch of makeup. “It is like a mini prom for them,” said Berlanga.
“I think every father should take part in it because the girls will always remember it. The girls talk about the event all year.”
Borck said this night is for all kinds of gentlemen and the young ladies in their life, not just for Daddies and Daughters. “This is an awesome event that reaches out to all sides of the city, to bring dads/stepdads/uncles/grandpas and their daughters/stepdaughters/nieces/granddaughters to enjoy a fun night out.”
It’s still not too late to join! Saturday tickets are sold out, but spots are still open for Friday. Call the Jackson Parks and Recreation Department at 788-4040 to purchase tickets.
