SARATOGA SPRINGS — The second annual BallsFest Pajama Party will take place at the Adelphi Hotel downtown, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8.
BallsFest, a major non-profit created by Frank DeBlasi in response to his battle with testicular cancer, provides yearly programming to families affected by childhood and young adult cancer.
Once families receive their diagnosis, BallsFest gets to work. They partner with the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer at Albany Medical to provide year-round support through therapeutic activities for children in treatment, providing a fun distraction and relief to the stress they’re facing. Perhaps most importantly, these activities give children a chance to socialize with each other and form connections.
BallsFest also hosts activities outside of the hospital. According to Angie Silipigno, BallsFest Executive Director, “families come together and have fun away from the hospital to gain support from a group of people who really understand what they’re going through.”
The funds from the Pajama Party’s ticket sales — as well as donations made at other events throughout the year — are used to purchase the materials needed for said hospital visits and activities. BallsFest also uses the money to cover all the costs associated with community-based events so that everything is free for families. During the holiday season, the organization also uses some of the money to put together Thanksgiving Bags. BallsFest seeks sponsorships throughout the year for assistance in funding these programs.
“We want to be able to always say yes when a need comes up,” says Silipigno. “Versus no, that the resources aren’t available.”
According to Silipigno, last year’s event had a great turnout. “I think the comfort level of people in their pajamas tied into the energy level,” she says. “The dance floor was full of people.”
Tickets cost $100, and the purchase includes food prepared by the Adelphi’s chefs, as well as an open bar. Silipigno promises a few surprises built into the night. Tickets can be purchased at: ballsfest.org/tickets/pajamaparty20.
