Dancing Through the Decades for a Worthy Cause

If you had told us last week that we’d be donning neon leg warmers, rocking out to 80s jams, and raising money for a playground, we might have asked if you had your cassette tape stuck on rewind! But last weekend, at Retro Prom, that’s exactly what went down, and let us tell you—it was totally rad.

A Blast from the Past 🎶

Two people sitting on a pink sofa in front of a colorful brick wall, reminiscent of vibrant decades past. The woman wears a black dress and the man dons a blue outfit with eye-catching pink socks. They are smiling at the camera, capturing a moment that feels like dancing for a worthy cause.

Walking into Retro Prom hosted by Bartlett Parks and Recreation was like stepping into a time machine. Picture neon lights, everyone decked out in their 80s best (side ponytails, leather jackets, and shoulder pads galore), and a DJ spinning the kind of music that makes you want to bust out the Running Man. From the moment we walked in, it was clear this wasn’t just another Saturday night. This was Bartlett at its most fun, and we were all here to party for a purpose.

Prom-nificent Time for a Big Cause

Let’s face it: who wouldn’t want to hit rewind to the 80s for a night? Retro Prom wasn’t only about epic fashion and throwing down our best moonwalks (though there was plenty of that). It was a chance to build something even more rad—an inclusive playground that gives every child in Bartlett a chance to play freely and safely.

Because at Choose901, we’re all about making Memphis (including out of the loop) a place where everyone can have a blast, regardless of ability — like playgrounds that are totally accessible, where every child gets to join in the fun.

A man in a blue suit and a woman in a blue and white dress smile while seated in front of a colorful brick wall, as if celebrating decades of friendship dedicated to a worthy cause.
A man and woman in retro outfits with pink accents smile, holding green cups, as if ready to burst into dancing. Another person in a pink dress is in the background, embodying the cheerful spirit of past decades.

The Retro Eats and Sips 🍽️🥂

The food was delish. Pink Flamingo Catering, 901 Catering, and Villa Castrioti served up flavor that was, like, beyond bodacious, while Frost and Biscuits and Jams kept our bellies full with some delicious cupcakes and bread pudding. We also couldn’t resist sampling the goodness from Big Momma’s and Granny’s Catering and Heart and Soul Catering—because how do you say no to soul food with a Southern twist? 

Plus, Bartlett Wine & Spirits and Wiseacre Brewing Company provided drinks that helped everyone bring out their best air guitar.

In a dimly lit room, a projection of playground equipment layout captivates onlookers, reminiscent of decades past.

Why an Inclusive Playground? 🤘

Yeah, we came to relive the 80s, but we were there to raise money for something that’s all about the future: an all-inclusive playground. This is something the city of Bartlett does not have and is something it desperately needs. A place where every child, no matter their abilities, can play, explore, and make friends without any barriers. Inclusive playgrounds have adaptive equipment, sensory-friendly zones, and thoughtful designs that make every child feel welcome. Because in Memphis, we look out for each other, and we know that when one of us thrives, we all do. 

And get this—$12,575 was raised to bring that vision to life!

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