Grab your glass slippers, it’s time for a ball.

Whitman County Fire District #12 is holding its first-ever masquerade ball Saturday at the Schweitzer Engineering Laboratory Event Center. The doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $60.

Emergency Medical Services Chief Mirenda Stenbakken headed the masquerade fundraiser’s planning.

“We wanted to do something outside the box,” Stenbakken said. “In public service, we spend a lot of time getting dirty … it’s nice to dress up.”

The recommended dress code is evening wear – long dresses and suits with ties, Stenbakken said. Masks, while recommended, are not required. A few will be available at the check-in table.

“Being in a masquerade ball, it’s going to be fun figuring out who’s who,” firefighter Ron Horton said.

Dinner, which begins at 7 p.m., will be catered by Fork in the Road, the catering arm of South Fork Public House. The rest of the night includes performances from local comedians Jared Chastain and Corey Leisy, a DJ and dance floor, and a silent auction.

There will be a photographer at the event. Stenbakken said. WCFD12’s Explorer Group, a group of high school students interested in firefighting, will do the serving.

Local businesses donated auction items. These items include photography packages, hotel rooms, gift certificates, and more, Stenbakken said. All other expenses were privately funded through the Volunteer Firefighter Association.

The funds raised from the ball benefit WCFD12’s community outreach programs. The money will be used to replace the old CPR mannequins and cover class fees for those who can’t afford it.

Those in the department hope to make this event annual, Horton said, but it may change from year to year.

WCFD12 is a volunteer organization providing fire protection, emergency medical services and hazardous material services to the rural areas surrounding Pullman.

Tickets for the masquerade ball are available for $60 online or at the door. The department recommended tickets be purchased in advance to give the caterer an accurate headcount.