By Christy Simo
The Mothball, Grant Park’s annual costume party fundraiser, is celebrating 40 years. So we’re stepping back in time and bringing everyone with us… to Studio 54. Dress in your 70s best and get ready to dance the night away with your neighbors and friends on November 14 from 8:00pm to 12:00am.
“The Mothball has been raising funds for the neighborhood for 40 years,” says Rob Bernier, economic development chair of the Grant Park Neighborhood Association (GPNA). “We thought it’d be fun to go back in time for one night to party like our predecessors, platform boots and all.”
Just as in years past, expect a few surprises. Trinity K. Bonet, a contestant on season 6 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will be on hand to liven up the party. Any dance club worth its salt has a star DJ, and this year’s Mothball will be no exception, with music provided by Atlanta DJ and award-winning record producer DJ Nightrain.
There will also be a cash bar, a costume contest, a table-decorating contest, a dance-off with gift certificates and prizes from local restaurants and shops, and more. This year, the food will be provided by local restaurants and also catered by Endive, owned by Grant Park resident Drew Irhig.
The Mothball costume party is a neighborhood tradition that spans four decades. In the 1970s, it started out as a potluck dinner to thank everyone who volunteered for the Tour of Homes. It was traditionally held the same weekend as the Tour. As time passed, the party grew bigger, and it turned into its own event.
Past themes have included everything from Moulin Rouge and pirates to James Bond and a hootenanny. More than 400 people attended last year’s Speakeasy Mothball dressed up in all kinds of crazy costumes, so be sure to come decked out and ready to party.
“Proceeds from the Mothball go to the GPNA, which uses the funds for all kinds of things from transportation improvements to support for our neighborhood schools,” Bernier says. “It’s a fun way to give back to your neighborhood and meet new neighbors and friends in the process.”
Special thanks to GPNA’s 2015 annual sponsors whose help will contribute to an amazing 40th Annual Mothball: Kroger, Rob Smith, Round Here Renovations, Justin Landis, and Six Feet Under.
Sponsorship packages are still available! If you and your business are interested in supporting the 40th Annual Grant Park Mothball, contact Rob Bernier at 404-934-9216 for details.
Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door. A limited number of VIP tables are available via the www.gpna.org/mothball website. For the third year, the Mothball will be held once again at the Grant Park Rec Center at 537 Park Avenue. All proceeds go back into the Grant Park community.
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