The Delta by Marriott Hotel in Breinigsville was transformed into a night of celebration and joy recently as it hosted the Lehigh Valley edition of Night to Shine, a nationwide prom-style experience for people with special needs age 14 and older.

Sponsored nationally by the Tim Tebow Foundation and presented locally by Riverbend Community Church, the event welcomed several hundred guests for an evening of dinner, dancing and fellowship.

Each guest, known as a “special guest,” was paired with a volunteer “buddy,” many of them members of the church, who accompanied them throughout the evening. Guests arrived in style by limousine and bus and were greeted by cheering volunteers as they entered the venue.

After checking in, attendees could choose from a variety of activities, including dinner, a dance floor with music and lights, a quiet room for those needing a calmer environment, and a family room for parents and caregivers.

The evening is designed to celebrate the value and dignity of every participant. As part of the tradition of Night to Shine events across the country, each guest is honored and celebrated as royalty.

Judging by the smiles, laughter and packed dance floor throughout the night, the Lehigh Valley celebration once again proved to be a memorable and uplifting experience for everyone involved.