50th annual Fireman’s Ball is July 14

On Saturday, July 14, Geyserville Fire Protection District will host its 50th annual Fireman’s Ball at Clos du Bois Winery. It began in 1962 as a way to raise money for the new firehouse. Over the years, the venue has changed several times, as has the menu, but the event always has a BBQ twist and the firefighters still do most of the cooking.

The first event was a dance held in the new firehouse. Five years later a dinner was added at the Odd Fellows Hall down the street, with guests going back to the firehouse for dancing. In the early 1970s, the Grange (Oriental Hall) combined the two under one roof, but before long it outgrew the hall’s 130-person capacity.

The next location was the Villa Chanticleer in Healdsburg, which was ideal until Healdsburg voted to charge out-of- towners a stipend. Back to Geyserville the firefighters went,  still keeping the dinner and dance in one location.

For the past three years, Clos du Bois has hosted it, each year more successful than the last. This year it is expected to be a sell-out event. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door, with drink tickets available for purchase. All-inclusive VIP tables have been added that go for $1,000, seat eight and come with their own wait staff.

The Fireman’s Ball is 5-10 p.m. Saturday, July 14, at Clos du Bois Winery, 19410 Geyserville Ave. Tickets are available at the firehouse, 20975 Geyserville Ave.; at Bosworth and Son in Geyserville; from firefighters; or online at brownpapertickets.com.

More information: geyservillefire.com.