First Ball

First Ball is a tradition observed by the wealthy families almost in every part of the world. It introduces teenagers around the age of 16 to the social life of the upper class. it usually takes place in the largest house in an area. However, in some place it can take place in some public buildings, such as town halls or big restaurants.

What should I tell her? Should I give her a flower? What if she refuses?

— A nervous boy

Before the ball, boys are encouraged to ask a girl they like to be their date to the ball. Even if a boy is romantically interesed in other boys rather than girls, he must ask a girl. Most families consider it a faux pas if a boy comes alone to the ball. It is common for families to find a girl to accompany their son. In those cases, the girl is usually from a lower social class, but is trained and dressed for a part of a well-educated upper class daughter.

It's just a week to First Ball. He will come and ask me any day now

— An excited girl

In most regions, girls aren't supposed to ask boys to the ball. However, unlike the boys, if a girl shows signs of being romantically interested in other girls rather than boys, she can ask a girl to the ball. The same as with boys, families can find their daughter a companion for the ball, if she can't do it on her own.

Mother, Father. This is Bianca. She will be my date to First Ball

— A girl presenting her date

Execution

First Ball begins about 3 hours after noon and lasts until midnight. Most of it looks the same as any other ball. People dance, talk, drink and eat. The differences are at the beginning and in the end. First Ball begins and ends with a dance during which pairs walk in a procession around the ball hall to the rhythm of music. It is called the walking dance.

One, two, three, bent knee. one, two, three, bent knee

— Walking dance instructor