Sweetheart Dance held at Lake Park Pavilion
A couple enjoys the music of the Coshocton Lake Park Big Band at the Sweetheart Dance held Saturday, Feb. 9 at the Lake Park Pavilion.
COSHOCTON – Music from the past filled the Lake Park Pavilion on Saturday, Feb. 9 when the Friends of the Park held their annual Sweetheart Dance. The Coshocton Lake Park Big Band provided music for the nearly 100 people who came to dance or simply enjoy the music.
Lori Everhart, director of the park district, said the pavilion was renovated in 1996 and soon after, the Lake Park Big Band was created to provide music for events at the building. The Sweetheart Dance has been held since then.
“Most of the band is local people who just love to play,” she said. “I think being able to hear the actual music that was played in this building in the 1930s is a big reason people keep coming back. It’s a great escape from the winter weather and can transform you back in time. You can close your eyes and imagine that Glenn Miller is playing the music.”
Danielle Ellis, president of the Friends of the Park, said, “The Sweetheart Dance is one of our biggest fundraisers. People come from out of town for it. Some people wear fancy dresses and suits, while others wear casual clothes.”
People who attended the dance could bring their own food and drinks or popcorn, pretzels and drinks could be purchased for a donation.
“Even if you don’t dance, come and enjoy the music,” said Ellis. “Our singers and the musicians are great. And the dance floor is so busy, no one will notice if you aren’t a great dancer.”
One of the singers for the night was Donovan Rice. He has been attending the dance for about five years and really enjoys singing with the Big Band.
“It’s a secret hidden gem of Coshocton, a chance to step back in time,” he said. “My generation is starting to appreciate this type of music and that’s great! I grew up listening to Frank Sinatra. This is a low pressure dance environment. People say they don’t come because they can’t dance. Just come and enjoy the music!”
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