For one day last year, Elsa and Anna transformed a local hall into a magical kingdom.
Now the Frozen sisters are set to return with three princess pals to create an even larger land of enchantment at the seventh annual White Rock Princess Party.
The community fundraising event, described by creator Myra Merkal as an “interactive playdate and sing-along” with popular princesses, is Aug. 6 at Centennial Arena.
“It’s going to be bigger – and more. Many children come back every year because they love it,” Merkal said.
Besides Elsa and Anna, Disney princesses Cinderella, Belle and Rapunzel will entertain young guests – who are encouraged to dress in princess attire – for an afternoon of crafts, activities, face-painting and cookie decorating. Children can also visit a magic castle, take photos with princesses and watch a choreographed performance. Food will be available by donation, and the popular raffle prize table – with all items donated by local merchants – is back this year.
A fairy godmother and fairy tale king will be on hand to offer greetings and hand out tiaras to young princesses – and crowns to young princes.
Parents can watch as their children stroll through the “courteous cake walk” – words like “please” and “thank you” replace traditional cake walk numbers – and get a splash of style from a face-painter and hair artist.
There is even a “charitable craft” in which guests can create a bookmark and at a later date accompany a princess to present their creation to a resident at a local seniors home.
“Everything else at the party is for them, but we want them to teach them about sharing, about giving back to others in the community,” said Merkal, adding the event is designed to make children feel special and know that true beauty is from within.
All money raised will be donated to the White Rock Fire Fighters Charity Association in support of its goal to build an all-abilities park on the beach. Endorsed by White Rock council last year, the play space would offer equipment for all ages and abilities.
“I want to have this park available for everyone in our community,” said Merkal.
Son Evan Bird, a White Rock firefighter, inspired Merkal to create the princess party fundraiser after he cycled across Canada with other firefighters raising money for charity. Now in its seventh year, the princess party and other events have raised $90,000 toward the park project – estimated to cost at least $600,000.
Merkal and co-organizer Alyssa Nielsen hope to raise $30,000 at this year’s event.
“I want this park to be truly a community park, that people from all different walks are wanting to get involved and wanting to raise money,” said Merkal.
Volunteers, raffle prize donations, cake bakers and sponsorships are needed for the event. Contact Merkal at miraclemyra10@gmail.com or 604-538-8000.
The White Rock Princess Party is Saturday, Aug. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centennial Arena, 14600 North Bluff Rd. Tickets, $18, available at wrprincessparty.com