GILPIN COUNTY – Laughter, sparkles, and splashes filled the Gilpin Community Center Saturday night February 8 at the annual Daddy-Daughter Dance and Dive, held on February 8, 2025. 

This long-standing tradition, which dates back to shortly after the Center’s grand opening in 2003, drew more than 100 participants for an evening of family bonding.

The event, organized by Special Events Coordinator Krystal Meyer, brought together 63 girls and their fathers, grandfathers, or other family members.

The evening kicked off in the gymnasium at 5:30 p.m., where daughters dressed in formal attire danced with their dads and played with floating balloons. 

Families shared pizza, veggie trays, chips, juice, and princess-themed cupcakes at tables set up for conversation and relaxation. 

An arts and crafts table gave dads and daughters the opportunity to decorate their own princess crowns with glitter, stickers, and jewels.

At 7 p.m., the group transitioned to the pool area, where daughters and dads enjoyed swimming and playful splashes.

Jeremy Kaiser, Vice Chair of the Central City Main Street Commission, who attended the event for the third year, remarked that it has become a staple for his family. “It’s something we look forward to every year,” he said.

The Daddy Daughter Dance and Dive is one of the oldest traditions at the Gilpin Community Center and continues to be a special occasion for families in the Peak-to-Peak region.

The next event at the center will be the Mother & Son Nerf Battle on March 1, including a meet-and-greet, Nerf battles, and pool time. Tickets are $35 per pair, with an additional $10 for each extra participant. Registration is available online at https://gilpincounty.colorado.gov/explore-gilpin/parks-and-recreation, or in person at the Community Center.