Submitted by Lacey Parks & Recreation
Princesses, Barbies, tutus, make up… When it comes to relating to their little girls, what is a dad to do? Sometimes it’s best to just enter their world and enjoy the things they love. So began the concept of the Daddy & Daughter Dances sponsored by Lacey Parks & Recreation and held the weekend before Valentine’s Day each year.
“In 2008 we held our first Daddy & Daughter Dance open to young ladies of all ages and their dad or dad substitute (grandpa, uncle, family friend). We were overwhelmed when the event quickly filled with 100 ‘couples’,” said Jeannette Sieler, Recreation Supervisor for Lacey Parks and Recreation. “It was so fun to see the girls all dressed up, some with corsages and fancy hairdos, on the arm of their dad. Watching the dads dancing with their little girl and sharing a special time together was magical.” Sieler continued, “Many places do Daddy & Daughter Dances, but ours are unique in that they are held at the Lacey Community Center, so the setting is a little more formal than a gymnasium. We include lots of great refreshments, special activities, and crafts to do together.” Designed for all ages, girls in middle and high school have the opportunity to connect with their dads too.
Noelle Geddis has attended several of the dances with her dad and they have become a tradition to look forward to. “Every year I would go to the father daughter dance. My Dad and I would dress up and he would always present me with a rose. Those dances meant the world to me. It was always so much fun to dress up and dance the night away with my Dad. It was a way for us to bond and spend quality time together. Those are moments I will cherish forever.”
Her dad Robert Geddis agrees, sharing, “It was a great chance for me as a father to bring such joy to my little girl. It was fun to watch her get excited, and to give
me a chance to spoil her. It was a great way to strengthen the bond between us. Those will be memories I will cherish forever.”
This year we are expanding the parent child theme by kicking off the weekend with the new Mom & Son Tropical Magic Night on Friday which will be highlighted by a Magic Show featuring popular local magician Jeff Evans. Geared for sons of all ages, this will be a chance for making memories between moms and sons with a little bit of magic thrown in. Past Mom & Son nights have been held outdoors in a less formal setting, but were a great bonding experience none-the-less.
Local mom Kelly Geddis shares, “I love that there was one day for just me and my boy. One day when we can spend some quality time together. From fishing, to bopper sword fights or Sumo Wrestling (which, I always won, but he’ll never admit to) to having a hot dog and enjoying a nice conversation together. It’s a time I will cherish and am so very grateful for the memories it has given us.”
Both events will have a tropical flavor this year and will include music provide by local DJ Garcia Entertainment, a craft for parent and child to do together, as well as a gift for each child, and light refreshments fit for a tropical paradise. Participants are encouraged to dress in tropical attire too! A professional photographer will be on hand to take photos for an additional fee.
Children grow up so fast and these special events create lasting memories. Registration closes Friday, January 30 or earlier if full so be sure to register now.
Mom & Son Tropical Magic Night
Friday, February 7, 6:30-9:00pm
Dad & Daughter Tropical Paradise Dance
Saturday, February 8, 6:30-9:00pm
Pre-registration for each of these events is required by Friday, January 30 or earlier if full. No ‘day of’ registration.
All are held at the Lacey Community Center.
Cost: $25 + tax per “couple” plus $5 for each additional child.
Additional cost for professional photos.
Call Lacey Parks & Recreation at 360-491-0857 or click here for more information.
