Barn dance packs 'em in

On a mild starlit night, the historic Alderfer Barn on Buffalo Park Road was filled with more than 400 people who came to socialize, listen to music and perhaps dance a little — if they could find space. 

Gabriel Christus

People head into the Alderfer Barn for an evening of socializing, music and dance.

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The 100-year-old barn that has been used for storage of park district equipment in recent times was transformed into a happening place for Evergreen residents last Friday night.

The Oct. 12 event planned by caretakers John Erlandson and Pandora Reagan was a huge success, Reagan said.

“At least 400 to 500 people came. We planned on 200,” she said. “We were thrilled.”
Because of the unanticipated turnout, the only available space for dancing was upstairs at the event, called Boogie at the Barn.

While there may not have been much room to boogie, attendees seemed to be having a great time talking with one another and enjoying the food and drink. They said the event reminded them of the Evergreen of 20 years ago, said Reagan.

“This is spectacular,” said Janet Heck Doyle, a resident and a board member of the Evergreen Park and Recreation District. “I hope we can use this for other similar venues.”

“This is so much fun,” added resident Sue Krieg.

With so many people attending, bartenders ran out of beverages about an hour after the dance began, said Reagan. Supplies were replenished twice during the evening.

The evening also featured art provided by Stoneheart Gallery. Six original paintings of the barn created by local artists Laura Mehmert, Judith Brunko, Chris McAllister, Jam Wong, Heather Arenas and Julianne Miller were offered for sale. Proceeds from the paintings will go toward restoration of the barn.

Contact reporter Sandy Barnes at  HYPERLINK "mailto:sandy@evergreenco.com" sandy@evergreenco.com or call 303-350-1042.