About

An evening of elegance and merriment held in honor of the General Lafayette’s historic return to Culpeper, just as it was celebrated 200 years ago.

Guests will be welcomed into the world of English Country Dance with guidance from Dance Master Mr. Charles Steplively and Dance Mistress Elaine Sturgeon, accompanied by live period music performed by a traditional quartet led by Mr. Steven Hickman. Members of the Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society will join in the festivities and help lead the dances.

There will be an optional dance walk-through on Saturday afternoon in downtown Culpeper for guests who would like to preview the dances and perfect the steps before the big event. There's plenty of time to enjoy a Lafayette-themed dinner downtown before heading out to the Ball. (Set times for the walk-through TBD closer to the event)

From 7:00 to 11:00 p.m., guests will enjoy a hosted bar featuring selections from Mountain Run Winery, including beer, wine, cider, and mead. Midway through the festivities, a light supper will be served to revive dancers—offering a curated array of local fare with distinct Virginian and French influences.

Attire: Historical costume from 1775 to 1825 is encouraged—military, hunt, or formal dress are all appropriate. Modern formal attire is welcome for those without period clothing.

No prior dance experience is necessary—this evening is about joy, community, and celebration. Lafayette himself was an enthusiastic dancer, as were George Washington and many of the Founding Fathers (with the notable exception of John Adams, who, according to Franklin, “hated fun”).

This event is part of the national Lafayette Bicentennial, presented locally as Culpeper’s Lafayette Days. Proceeds support educational outreach, History Week events, and community programs commemorating Culpeper Minute Men's 250th anniversary.

Sponsored in part by Virginia Humanities, Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250), Mountain Run Winery, Liberty Hall, Tri-County Feeds, Fashions, Finds, Patton Legacy Sports, Bramer Group LLC, Charles Schwab, U.S. Polo Assn., Blue Rock, Piedmont Environmental Council, On the Spot Events and Point to Point LLC