Some friends and I recently got tickets to see a production of “The Prom” at the Ames Community Theater. As we made plans, we had the fun idea to dress the part, perhaps not in the prom dresses of our teens, but in festive attire that would do homage to the theme. We added a pre-prom dinner outing, wrist corsages and group photo under the balloon arch backdrop.

It was a great performance, and we had so much fun.  Dressing up added a festive flair and dressing for a part can take you outside yourself, adding a playful element to a world that often feels busy and serious.  Plus, we were supporting an important arts organization in the community.

Seeing what a good time we’d had, I seized the momentum and suggested that they harness that playful dress-up energy and join me at the Ames Public Library Friends Foundation’s fundraiser, Pub Fiction, coming up Thursday, August 14th.  It’s an annual literary pub crawl where participants dress up as book characters.  Ticket sales raise money for library programs and resources.  Participants start out at the library for mingling, snacks, photos and a chance to win a costume contest with prizes, before heading out downtown to participating venues.  The bars get in on the fun by choosing a book theme to inspire decorations and specialty drinks, including nonalcoholic options. Locations offer snacks or light food too. It’s a fun way to get out and support a good cause (the Library!) and also our downtown businesses. 

So, grab some friends or come meet some new ones and have a fun evening out while supporting a great cause.  As for my friends, we’re still finalizing our outfits but if you see some swashbuckling Princess Bride ensembles, or some assorted fairytale characters, be sure to say hello.

Tickets are $20 and are on sale at the library and online at https://bit.ly/PubFiction2025. Follow us on social media https://www.facebook.com/APLfriendsfoundation for more updates and to see photos from past events. If you need inspiration stop by the library and brainstorm with staff, or search for literary costumes online or on Pinterest. And while you’re online, check out the Ames Public Library Friends Foundation’s newly revamped website at www.APLFF.org to see how your gifts and participation in events help support the many programs and resources at the library.