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Buccaneer Days dance provides fun, chance to support good cause

Esquimalt tradition raises money for community groups

Get out your dancing shoes.

Tickets to the Buccaneer dance, one of the biggest and most anticipated 19-over social events in Esquimalt each year, are now available.

Upwards of 850 people attend the licensed event, held annually for more than 40 years.

"It's like a big huge Esquimalt reunion," said Stephen Hussey, who is organizing the June 9 dance with Esquimalt firefighter Lt. Troy Saladana. "It's one of those community events that you see the same familiar faces."

It's also held on one of the busiest weekends of the year in the township. The dance coincides with Buccaneer Days, when residents and organizations gather for a parade and other free fun-filled activities.

Ticket sales have generated between $60,000 and $80,000, funds that allow the Esquimalt Fire Benevolent Association to support local youth clubs and athletic organizations.

"This dance is a big deal, because it's another way for us to give back to our community," said Hussey, a longtime civilian support staff member at the Victoria Police Department's West Division in Esquimalt.

"It's a very rewarding dance to be a part of."

The dance runs from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Live rock and roll music, courtesy of The Push Band and Consenting Adults, begins at 9 p.m.

Tickets are $10, and are available at VicPD's West Division, 500 Park Pl., and Len Fraser Barber Stylist, 1230 Esquimalt Rd.

emccracken@vicnews.com