Daybreak residents enjoy rootin’, tootin’ Daddy Daughter Dance

By Jordan Hafford | [email protected]

South Jordan and Daybreak residents are no strangers to family-oriented celebrations right in the neighborhood, as made evident by the 275-person turnout at the annual Daddy Daughter dance put on by LiveDAYBREAK on Feb. 9 at the Daybreak Community Center. 

The cold weather didn’t deter residents and likely never does, as attendance continues to climb year after year. This year, the dance party was given a Western “Denim and Diamonds” theme for attendees to enjoy.

The Daddy Daughter Dance event has been going on for 10 consecutive years and has continually been one of their most well-attended regular programs. Each year, the dance is themed differently for novelty purposes. “We switch up the theme every year to keep things exciting,” said Melanie Gauci, recreation manager for LiveDAYBREAK. “In the past, we have had a Hollywood Premier, Mad Hatter Tea Party and Sock Hop.” 

There were a few families who have attended all 10 years, in particular that were in attendance for the 10th year in a row, Thad Weiland and his daughter Tabitha being among them. They talked about their experience at the event and how important it is to them.  “Our favorite part of this year is probably the horses,” Thad Weiland said. “In years past, they have also had photo booths. It’s always a great time for us.” 

LiveDAYBREAK is a community organization aimed at creating memorable and wholesome family activities for its residents. It coordinates and hosts around 180 programs and events throughout the year, ranging in size from 20 attendees up to 5,000. LiveDAYBREAK’s role in the community is to create a place where people feel connected to their neighbors, residents live more fulfilling lives and families can make lifelong memories. 

The main events of the program are the dinner and dancing aspects. Smokin’ Star catered a barbecue meal to go along with the Western theme, and for dessert cake pops were provided by Swirly Girls (a local bakery in Daybreak). The dance itself was a mixture of top dance and classic country music hits to which all the attendees danced the night away in country Western garb. 

There were two ponies outside the Daybreak Community Center for petting and photo opportunities before entering. Upon departure, each girl was given a small gift box with a diamond bracelet. Throughout the venue, there were several photo backdrops and cutouts for personal photos, as well as hay bale steer roping for children. 

Melanie Gauci and LiveDAYBREAK members believe one of the best ways for residents to be engaged with one another is through sharing a meal and uniting through dance. 

“Overall, it’s a great opportunity for girls to have a night away with a male figure in their life whether it be a father, brother, uncle, grandfather, etc.,” said Gauci. 

To learn about more activities and events, visit the LiveDAYBREAK website livedaybreak.com/happenings, as well as the group’s social media pages.