Over 100 people, including adults and kids alike, attended the second annual Princess and Superhero Ball at the River’s Edge Arlington venue in Paris on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
The March break event, hosted by the Shelly Gracey team of Re/Max Twin City, gave youngsters the opportunity to spend an enchanting afternoon with their favourite princesses, prince’s and superhero characters.
“It’s been an amazing turnout, we completely sold out and we’re just so happy that we could do this for these kids,” said Shelly Gracey, organizer of the event. “Everything has just gone off without a hitch and everyone seems like they’re having a great time.”
From Cinderella to Belle, Spiderman, the Incredibles and more, there were plenty of characters to mingle and take photos with throughout the event.
Guests enjoyed a variety of activities and games including a royal dance party, face painting, magic, balloon art and professional photo opportunities.
Youngsters, up to 13-years-old, were sure to come dressed to impress in their very own prince, princess and superhero costumes, with many taking part in a costume contest for a special prize.
As well, tasty treats like pizza, candy floss and popcorn were provided by local businesses such as Chocolate Sensations, Capeesh Kitchen and Cellar, the Paris Inn and Original Gourmet Popcorn.
While many were attending the ball for the first time, others were happy to make their return to the annual event.
“I came with my grandson Grayson last year and it’s an amazing event because it’s not very often you get events like this, especially in this area,” said Holli Brown, a Brantford resident. “I love how they do the games and the pictures, and I really like that this year they added the superheroes because there were quite a few boys here last year, so I’m happy that she [Gracey] added that in because it just makes it extra fun for the boys and girls.
Brown’s grandson and his frog teddy bear, who sported matching Iron Man costumes, were one of the two winners of the event’s costume contest.
Gracey said that she started the event last year as a way to give the children an entertaining activity for the March break.
“I wanted to just have something fun for the kids to do on March break and I really envisioned something in a special place and the Arlington Hall is just exactly that,” she said. “I wanted them to just feel special and included, and have a great time because that’s what it’s all about, you know?”
Kimberly De Jong’s reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative.The funding allows her to report rural and agricultural stories from Blandford-Blenheim and Brant County. Reach her at kimberly.dejong@brantbeacon.ca.
