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‘Holiday Homecoming Dance’ coming to the Driver Nov. 22
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DARLINGTON — For the second year, the “Holiday Homecoming Dance,” sponsored by the Pop Factory Players, will take place at the Driver Opera House (250  Main Street in Darlington). This dance will be once again the night before Thanksgiving on Wednesday, Nov. 22 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Once upon a time, the Darlington Fire Department sponsored the very popular “Firemen’s Dance” the night before Thanksgiving. The “Firemen’s Dance” would be held at Nelson Middle School gym, and people of all ages would attend to enjoy the music and dance throughout the evening.

“We could not wait for the Firemen’s Dance,” Pop Factory Player member Jeff Kluesner remembers. “It was a magical evening filled with energy, hi-jinks, and family fun. Like the Firemen’s Dance, we want to re-establish a holiday event that entire families can look forward to every year.” 

Driver Opera House Restoration President Jean Kendall reflected, “The Firemen’s Dance was the social event before the holidays. It was a multi-generational event. It was always nice to reconnect with local towns people, classmates, and friends.”

In the tradition of the “Firemen’s Dance,” the Pop Factory will host the Holiday Homecoming Dance. The Driver will have the renowned Ken Kilian Orchestra playing from 6:30-8:30 p.m., with Lynda and the Zeros performing from 9-11 p.m.

Dance music for all ages will ring us into the holiday season providing an excellent opportunity for family and friends to gather and reminisce. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Admission is $10. Light snacks and beverages will be sold throughout the evening. All proceeds will go to the Driver Opera House Center for the Arts for its continued restoration. Event advertising is funded by a Dubuque Racing Association (DRA) Grant. Event entertainment is funded by the Darlington Community Fund. The Darlington Community Fund is a component of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin.

The Driver is not yet handicapped accessible; however, due to the financial support by so many people, the historic landmark is moving closer to the installation of an elevator and the complete restoration of this.