The event, which will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17, on the Sons and Daughters of Italy’s heated outdoor patio, will offer food, dancing, games… all to benefit the United Way and its partner agencies.

The Masquerade will include food provided by the Beech Creek Hotel, music by Absolute DJ and a photobooth by Jackson Productions.

Tickets cost $40 for one or $70 for two and include food, a specialty drink, wine and beer. Patrons can also purchase a beverage from the Sons during the event.

Tickets may be purchased by visiting https://my.cheddarup.com/c/2025-masquerade-benefit-ball or texting Masquerade25 to 234-324-3332.

TIM WEIGHT/FOR THE EXPRESS Three people pose in their masks at the 2024 Masquerade Benefit.

Those attending are encouraged to put on your best outfit, and don’t forget your mask!

The event will also feature a 50/50 raffle, gift card pop and basket raffle. Those in attendance will have the chance to nominate a friend or loved one for the benefit’s Best Dressed contest, too.

This is the fourth year The Express and United Way have partnered to bring this unique October event.

Organizers Carleigh Johnson, United Way director; and Megan Muthler, assistant advertising manager for the Express, expressed their gratitude to all those who are sponsoring the event, donating their time, a raffle basket or gift card to ensure its success.

“Your generosity is more than just a donation or a sponsorship — it’s a lifeline to families in need, a light in someone’s darkest moment and a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together,” Johnson said about those who have helped with the event. “Every ticket purchased, every sponsorship given, every act of kindness — it all goes directly to supporting 14 incredible partner agencies serving right here in Clinton County.”

Johnson emphasized the importance of these agencies and their work on the front lines.

“Your support doesn’t just make this event possible — it changes lives. Thank you for believing in our mission and standing with us to lift up our neighbors,” she said.

Muthler echoed much of Johnson’s statements, noting the masquerade offers a fun way to give back to the community during the Halloween season.

“This is such a special event each year because you can dress up, celebrate the Halloween season and also know that you’re doing it all for the United Way and their partner agencies,” she said. “It’s always a blast and we have such amazing vendors who are great to work with.”

Muthler also expressed her appreciation for working with Johnson throughout the process.

“I’m so thankful to get to work with Carliegh to pull this off because she really does give it the life it deserves,” she said. “It feels great to give back, get to eat, drink and be spooky while doing it.”

Sponsors for this year include:

— UPMC

— First Commonwealth Bank

— Woodlands Bank

— First Quality

— Terrapin

— Lykens Market

— JB Wrenchin’

— Central PA Auto Auction

— First Citizens Community Bank

— SA Piper Logistics

— Sons and Daughters of Italy

— Jackson Productions

— Beech Creek Hotel

— Absolute DJ