By Lauren Vaught
Staff Writer

The City of Madison’s Bicentennial Ball is coming up on Friday, January 9. This grand occasion will “kickoff the new bicentennial,” according to Chris Lambert, organizer of the event. From what people will be wearing to what they will be eating, the topic is “grand.” The ball itself is period-themed, or an “historic occasion,” as Lambert described it.
“The menu is a menu that could’ve been served in 1809,” Lambert said. “Foods that could’ve come from the land and garden.” 
The tabletop centerpieces are made from what would be on hand during the time- winter fruits, winter vegetables and some flowers. The method of lighting will also be period-themed.
“The dinner will be strictly candlelight,” Lambert said.
 The topic everyone wants to hear about is the dresses– what will be worn and by whom.
“There are some people who are shopping especially for the ball gown. Some are excited to wear their Mother-of-the-Bride dress again, and some are just reaching into their closets for something they already have,” Lambert said. 
Not everyone must wear an elaborate ball gown, though. The main point of the night is to have a good time.
“I keep telling people if you put on the dress and you feel like you’re going to a ball, then come on,” Lambert said.
However, many will be wearing gowns that impress. Sarah Burbach will be wearing a teal strapless gown adorned with white beads, a ruffled skirt and a small train.
“I had a lot of color choices,” Burbach said, “but I didn’t want a Christmas color- I wanted a winter color.”
She described the dress as elegant, one that will fit the night.
“When I saw it, I knew that’s what I wanted for the ball,” Burbach said.
Mary Laughton is being resourceful and wearing a dress form the past. She’s wearing the dress she wore at her daughter's wedding. The dress was designed by Carol Peretz, a luxe New York designer specializing in wedding attire.
“I love the dress and I love wearing it,” Lowton said. “It’s nice to have a place dressy enough to wear it.”
Everyone is coming out in their best, ready to celebrate Madison’s Bicentennial anniversary in style. The ball is period-themed and the gowns will be something to remember.
It is sure to be an event that will go down in the city's 200 years of history.