'Sweetheart Dance' Set To Return After 2 Years In Buffalo Grove

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Many local families throughout Township High School District 214 have lasting memories of the popular "Daddy Daughter Dance," held annually at Buffalo Grove High School. Unfortunately, the pandemic put the event on hold for the last two years, but it is now scheduled for a comeback this school year.

Rebranded as the "Sweetheart Dance," organizers are putting together the finishing touches for the April 9 event.

"We made the decision at the end of last school year, during our school planning meeting, to bring [it back]," Kaden Khayyata, Buffalo Grove High School student and treasurer of the sophomore class, told Patch. "We never wanted to have it canceled, but due to COVID protocols, it was on hold for two years."

Khayyata said at the beginning of March, school administrators told organizers they wanted to open it up to all kids and their parents, not just fathers and daughters.

With a "Candyland" theme, the dance will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 9, at the Buffalo Grove High School gym. The cost is $30 per parent.

"We will have a photo booth, DJ, arts and crafts, snacks, and much more," Khayyata said.

Khayyata said a lot of planning has gone into the event with the goal to "make it the best we can." Organizing has been going on for months, including decisions on crafts, food and other entertainment aspects.

"Most of the girls attended with their dads years ago, and are excited to be on the other side of the event," Khayyata said. "People like me, who haven't ever attended, do remember siblings attending, and it being talked about in the community. Overall, this event brings back memories for many students at Buffalo Grove, and it really is nice to see."

To register for the dance, email sponsor Lily Justiniano at lily.justiniano@d214.org.