Liberty & Lace Ball: A Celebration of Independence

Step back into the vibrant world of Revolutionary-era America—where powdered wigs meet pounding drums, minuets mingle with hip-hop remixes and history is for everyone.

The Liberty & Lace Ball honors the first bold steps toward independence—personal, cultural and national—while recognizing that freedom in 1776 was not yet a reality for all. In the grand tradition of Revolutionary-era gatherings, guests are invited to celebrate progress, express their unique heritage and dance in the enduring pursuit of liberty for everyone.

This event is 18+ only. A Government-issued ID is needed for a drink ticket; IDs will be checked at the door.

🕯️Spotlight Events:

6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Pressing Liberty: Revolutionary Letterpress Printing with Jacob Taylor Gibson - Create your own commemorative print using a custom design carved exclusively for the Liberty & Lace Ball by artist Jacob “Taylor” Gibson. Attendees will learn the basics of traditional letterpress printing and pull their own keepsake print using a hand-operated clamshell press.

6:15 - 7:00 p.m. Revolutionary America Country Dance Class, Set 1 with North Texas Traditional Dance Society

7:00 - 7:30 p.m. Understanding the American Revolution through Portraiture with Camille Davis, Ph.D. - Explore the story of the American Revolution through the portraits of the men and women who shaped a nation. By looking closely at the symbols, poses, and artistic choices within these iconic images, discover what the Founders wanted future generations to understand about liberty, leadership, and the ideals of the new republic.

7:45 - 8:30 p.m. Revolutionary America Country Dance Class, Set 2 with North Texas Traditional Dance Society

8:30 - 8:45 p.m. Threads of Revolution: Community Quilt Reveal & Raffle Drawing - Two FREE tickets to 1776 and Me with Craig Scott donated by the Dallas Genealogical Society

🕰️Evening Activities

Elegant Paperwork: 18th Century Quilling - Discover the delicate art of paper quilling, a popular decorative craft of the 18th century. Attendees will learn basic quilling techniques and create their own elegant paper design inspired by Revolutionary-era styles.

My Shot: Hamilton Karaoke - Take the stage and sing your favorite songs from Hamilton at this Revolutionary-era sing-along. Whether you're an experienced performer or just singing for fun, all are welcome to grab the mic and channel their inner Founding Father.

“Declare your Liberty” Interactive Installation - Add your voice to a community art installation by sharing what liberty means to you today. Inspired by the enduring ideals of the Declaration of Independence, this collaborative display invites guests to reflect on freedom, equality and the ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union.

Fashioning Liberty: 18th Century Fan Making - Create your own decorative hand fan inspired by the fashions and social traditions of the Revolutionary era. Guests can design and personalize a functional keepsake while exploring an accessory that was both practical and stylish in the 18th century.

Garden Gatherings: 18th Century Bouquet Making - Craft a hand-held, fresh bouquet inspired by the floral traditions of the 18th century. Explore the beauty and symbolism of historic flowers while creating a charming keepsake fit for a Revolutionary-era ball.

“Survive 1776” Games - Try your hand at Revolutionary-era-inspired games, from rubber band musket target practice and stick horse races to classic card and backgammon tables for a quieter pace.

Vendor booths and dancing will be available throughout the evening.

🤝Participating Vendors & Organizations

Dallas Genealogical Society

Dallas Lace Society

Daughters of the American Revolution

Dearly Imparted

Sons of the American Revolution

🥖Food and🍯Beverage

Meals & mead will be available from our partner vendors for a fee. Limited free drinks will be available.

Food & Beverage provided by:

Amor & Queso

Bakes & Boules

Fox and Raven Mead

🏛️Parking: Event parking is free in our library parking garage. The entrance is located behind the library on Wood Street. (Put 1541 Wood St. into your GPS.). The library parking garage has limited spaces and will be first-come, first-serve. Street parking and paid lots are available all around the downtown Dallas area.

🪙Cost: All activities are free, but vendors will charge for items they are selling.

🎭Costumes: Just like at any ball, costumes are encouraged!

This event is in-person only! Please register for a reminder email and to help our event organizers plan!