Luther College’s Flamingo Ball returned in all its glory this past homecoming weekend. SAC presented a night of music and dancing on October 7 on the Oneota terrace, which brought together alumni and students.

The Flamingo Ball got its start in 1984 as a beloved homecoming ball. However, this ball was lost along the way, which is why the Student Activities Council decided to bring it back this year. Olivia Helland (‘21), the Assistant Director of Student Activities, played a pivotal role in the revival of this event.

“I see Flamingo Ball becoming a yearly event,” said Helland. “[We] did a lot of searching through old files and pictures to learn how these events were run. I believe we were successful in this theme as people have really been engaging with our events.”

The Oneota terrace set the stage for Luther College’s iconic Flamingo Ball. The evening unfolded with live music from The Sons of Zebedee Doo Dah, food and a live bar. Among the  attendees was Faneeza Malik (’26), experiencing the Flamingo Ball for the very first time.

“I heard so much about the Flamingo Ball from everyone,” Malik said. “Finally being here, it’s everything they said and more. It’s amazing to see traditions like the Flamingo Ball making a comeback. It’s a real bonding moment for our college community.”

The ball coincided with current students and alumni  being in town for homecoming weekend. Ruthveridiana Mtaita (’27) found the fusion of alumni and current students to be the defining feature of this event.

“The ball united both present students and past alumni, creating a meaningful connection through festivities,” Mtaita said. “This allowed us to celebrate alongside individuals who had once been part of Luther’s history.”

A standout feature of the ball was the live musical performance by The Sons of Zebedee Doo Dah, renowned for their expertise in swing dance rhythms. This six-member ensemble has entertained at a wide range of events, including prohibition-era-themed gatherings, elegant galas, and even jazz-infused church services.

 “I absolutely adored the live music,” Mtaita said. “I was able to sway to the rhythm and sing along with it. The music becomes a part of you at the ball.”

SAC plans to bring back more throwback events and hopes that the Flamingo Ball will return again amongst other Luther traditions next homecoming.