2 minute read
A day for dancing
BLAST FROM THE PAST
Valentine’s Day: A day for dancing
There are fewer dances today than in the 1940s, but you can still kick up your heels this winter
DEVAN GILLARD - administrative assistant at the qathet Historical Museum & Archives.
Before the Second World War, the most common Valentine’s pastime in Powell River was tea. Teas and socials were usually held at a United Church.
Often these events were paired with a home cooking sale or a bazaar. This was because Valentine’s Day started off as a Christian holiday, and tea was a social event where one could exchange the newly-popular Valentine’s cards with friends and family.
After the war, another pastime rose to prominence for Valentine’s Day: dancing.
Dancing was a way to keep morale up during the war and its popularity continued long after. In Powell River, these dances were often held by local lodges or other groups.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, the Oddfellows, The Oldtimer’s Dance Club, Powell River Golf Club, and the schools were among those that held these Valentine’s Day dances.
Generally, more than one dance would take place in town during the week leading up to February 14.
Everyone was encouraged to dance at these occasions, even in the high school, where boys were encouraged not to be a ‘pill’ and participate in the dance. Often a mix of ‘old-time’ and modern dances would be performed to make sure everyone could join in.
Today, one is somewhat less likely to find themselves at a Valentine’s Day dance, but we still remember Valentine’s Days past.
TWO DANCES COMING UP
Dance #1: 80s Dance Party. March 9, Arc Community Event Centre. DJ The Stunt Man. $20. For Lift’s 40th anniversary.
Dance #2: Latin Night. March 23, Carlson Loft. Salsa lessons, dance til midnight, food by Blue Agave. Fundraiser for the Brain Injury Association.
