ROCHELLE — Get ready for the 98th annual Rochelle Fireman’s Ball — set for Saturday, April 14.
This year’s ball will be held at the Flight Deck Hanger, 1207 West Gurler Road, and will feature live music as well as a DJ.
Besides music, there will be dancing, hors d’oeuvres, a full bar, a 50/50 raffle, a free photo booth, and a silent auction at 9:30 p.m.
Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. and the night will end at midnight.
This year, Pablo & The Rhythmix will perform live from 9 to midnight and a DJ will get the night started from 7 to 9 p.m.

Proceeds from department’s annual fundraiser go toward an annual $2,500 scholarship at Kishwaukee College for a graduating Rochelle Township High School senior, maintenance of Fireman’s Hall where a free dinner is served every Monday night, sponsorship of a Little League baseball team, and – if there is any money left over – toward training and equipment.
As far as records can tell, the fireman’s ball started in the 1890s, but due to a “long hiatus” it didn’t become an annual event until much later. Despite a possible break during World War II, the ball has been held continuously every year since.
Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased at the Rochelle Fire Department, from any Rochelle firefighter or at the Flight Deck the night of the ball.
T-shirts
The Rochelle Fire Department is offering t-shirts for sale. They will be available to purchase at the Fireman’s Ball and are also available for the public to purchase through the fire department.
The shirts are available in two colors, blue and gray, for $20 each. There will be a selection of sizes small to extra large on hand at the event on Saturday, April 14. Order forms for other sizes will also be at the ball. To order a shirt, contact the fire department’s non-emergency number at 815-562-2122.