Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE -- Who said home-schoolers miss out on all of the fun?

On Friday, the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse is hosting an Enchanted Evening Masquerade Prom that is open to all ninth- to 12th-grade home-schoolers in Gwinnett and other surrounding counties. The event begins at 6:30 p.m.

"We do this prom every year and we've been doing it for quite a few years," said Renee Arant of the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. "My staff and I plan everything. We hire for food or cook it ourselves, plus we create all the decor. This year is masquerade themed, so there is a lot of cardboard and painting."

There will be a buffet dinner served for those interested. On the menu that night includes herb and lemon chicken, steamed vegetables, tossed salad, mashed potato bar and chocolate bar. Guests are welcomed to eat before arriving to the dance.

The students are asked to dress formally in tuxedos, suits and gowns, but the organizers are also asking the teens to do one more thing for the occasion.

"We're encouraging the kids to wear creative masks," Arant said. "They'll have fun, dance, have dinner and interact with kids their age that they don't get to see too often."

Near the end of the evening, a king and queen will be crowned. Winners will be chosen by the highest number of votes given from the attendees.

The dance ends at 9:30 p.m.

Admission is $35 per person or $60 per couple, but all students must register before Monday. To save your spot, call 770-822-5450 or email Arant at renee.arant@gwinnettcounty.com.