Malvernites Find Glitz and Good Cheer at Holiday Gala

Bathed in green and red lights and dressed in their finest, Malvernites twirled around the dance floor, savored delicious hors d'oeuvres and mingled about an elegant white tent while balancing their Malverne Merry Martinis. The Holiday Gala, hosted by the Malverne Historical Society, gave residents a chance to kick back and come together to celebrate the start of the holiday season.

The gala helps to raise funds for the Malverne Historical and Preservation Society through ticket and raffles sales, and sponsorships from local merchants. Robert Powers, the Society's president, and his volunteers worked for months to make the night a success. A live band kept many Malvernites on the dance floor, where a few lucky guests had the privledge of being spun around by Frosty the Snowman, played by Civic Association President Peter Robideau, who looked like John Travolta (if he had a corn-cob pipe, button nose and two eyes made out of coal, that is.)

Peter Rapanaro, a native of East Rockaway who has performed in Las Vegas and internationally, impressed the crowd as he crooned Christmas songs from his latest album. (Watch the video of his performance here.)

The guests also took turns touring the charming Historical House, which had been all dressed up for the holidays, complete with a towering and brilliant Christmas tree.

It appeared that a fun night was had by all who attended. Check out the photos for some glimpses of the gala.