By JULIE HARBIN/Community columnist

Roy Downs Memorial Library in Calera is proud of their Annual Fairy Tale Ball, with good reason. Saturday, March 1 will mark the library’s sixth year of hosting the event, which will feature two Fairy Tale Balls and a Princess Tea.

“It’s the largest non-profit free event in the City of Calera,” said volunteer Rhonda Cracraft. “Last year, we had 600 attendees. This is the only Princess Ball in Alabama.”

The Princess Ball features favorite princesses from beloved fairy tales, and also includes characters and themes from two storybooks.

The morning ball, recommended for pre-school aged children, is from 10 a.m. to noon. The evening ball, open for all ages, will be from 6-8 p.m. The Princess Ball is free and no reservations are required.

At the ball, guests will meet characters from “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” see the goose that laid the golden eggs, watch the Oompa Loompas dance, and create a take-home treat from a candy bar. Next, they will walk through the mist of Paris to find Horace and Jasper from “101 Dalmatians” struggle to keep the puppies in the barn. They will also make their own Dalmatian puppy puppet.

The Princess Tea, back this year by popular demand, is held in the cafeteria of Calera High School. From 1-3 p.m., princesses will mingle, dance and sit with guests. The tea will include an etiquette lesson, along with tea, snacks and cupcakes. A $10 ticket is required to attend the tea.

“I love to hear the children squeal with delight when they walk in,” Cracraft said. “They realize that the library isn’t a stuffy, scary place but is fun and exciting!”

The Princess Ball is organized by the Friends of the Calera Public Library, and relies on volunteers for decorating and break down, the Tea committee, and fundraising.

If you are interested in volunteering or would like to purchase tickets to the Princess Tea, contact the library at (205) 668-3514 or email fairytaleball14@gmail.com.