HERMISTON — After the bustle of the holidays, the winter months can seem bleak and devoid of events. Hermiston Parks and Recreation hopes to change that with new programming and a new event: The Winter Gala on Saturday, Jan. 28.

“We know there’s a space between the holidays — Breakfast with Santa and all the other events — and our next major event, which is the Spring Bazaar,” Recreation Coordinator Diana Picard said. “We wanted to do something special for adults, and we’re hoping to start a tradition.”

Picard said the organizers chose the Winter Gala because they were looking for something for adults to come out, relax and let loose after the holidays. The event is for those 21 and older and will include a catered tri-tip dinner, a no-host bar and a variety of music.

“We really want this to be something for adults where you can dress up if you’d like to and enjoy something that isn’t going out to a restaurant or a bar where you can have a fun evening and good atmosphere,” Picard said.

The Winter Gala will take place at the Hermiston Community Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the dinner begins at 6 p.m. Because of the catering, tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be sold at the door. The deadline for tickets is Jan. 21, and those can be purchased by phone or in-person at the Hermiston Community Center. Tickets for the Winter Gala are $40 per person.

Buttercreek Salon is sponsoring the event, but Picard said they are also looking for more sponsors.

Call Hermiston Parks and Recreation at 541-667-5018 for more information about the event, sponsorships or to purchase tickets.

Hermiston Parks and Recreation is planning the first Winter Gala for ages 21+ on Saturday, Jan. 28, 5:30 p.m. at the Hermiston Community Center.

Tickets are $40 per person and must be purchased by Jan. 21. For information, call 541-667-5018.