On August 30, senior citizens get a chance to relive their prom night at the Senior Center of South Pearl River County’s annual senior prom.
More than 100 senior citizens attend the prom each year, Kathleen Penton, senior center participants coordinator, said. The women arrive in their finest dresses while the men wear a tuxedo to match, and the first 100 to arrive will receive a corsage and boutonniere.
From 1 to 4 p.m., senior citizens attending prom will experience “a fun time with dancing, singing and lots of eating,” Penton said.
Also, a professional photographer will take pictures so participants can remember the night for years to come.
“They absolutely love coming to prom. They look forward to it every year and always ask when it’s going to happen,” Penton said.
The theme for this year’s senior prom is “Thanks for the Memories,” which Penton said sets a positive mood and fun atmosphere for all attendees.
Penton said their favorite part of the prom is not the dancing or food, but something much more meaningful.
“It takes them back to their high school years. They dance like they are 16 again and just have a ball,” Penton said. “We become alive again. That feeling you get almost rewinds time and puts you back to those days. It’s a fun time for all of us.”
Tim Burns and his band will perform at the event and will be playing 50s and 60s music for the duration.
Door prizes and finger foods will be provided. Toward the end of the prom, two participants will be randomly selected as queen and king.
“The crowning of king and queen is so much fun. They really get a kick out of it and the smiles are from ear-to-ear after it is over,” Penton said. “They have so much excitement about the event and their energy seems to never fade.”
There is no registration deadline for citizens wishing to attend the free event. For more information call the Senior Center at (601) 798-9892.