MADISON – Damsels, mermaids and an atmosphere of chivalry will greet guests at “Once Upon a Winter’s Night.”

Madison Public Library will host the upcoming fairytale-themed, after-hours event on Feb. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. “It’s a family friendly event,” Youth Services Librarian Eileen Drummond said.

All ages can enjoy games, movies and music. Guests can meet real princesses and learn new dances.

Adult Services Librarian Teresa Allison, Youth Services Librarian Lisa Blackmon and Drummond will present fairy tales and variations of stories in children’s literature in the form of enchanting puppet shows. Their program will feature presentations for “Falling for Rapunzel,” “The Paper Bag Princess” and “The Sunflower Sword.”

“Children will have the chance to make a wand, decorate a crown and have their face painted,” Drummond said. The staff will show a movie, “The Princess and the Frog.”

The librarians encourage guests to wear their pajamas or dress in garb similar to their favorite character from fairy tales.

Guests can take the floor for informal dancing that will include group dances that will be simple enough for the library’s youngest patrons to learn and enjoy. “Belle, Aurora and Ariel will join us for a magical evening of dancing and signing autographs,” Drummond said.

Age isn’t a factor, so anyone can attend. “‘Once Upon a Winter’s Night’ is for all ages,” Drummond said.

Guests can enjoy refreshments, which will include bottled water, hot cocoa, cookies and ice cream cake from Dairy Queen on County Line Road in Madison.

As many as 300 people have attended the event in previous years. Madison Public Library’s address is 142 Plaza Blvd. For more information, visit hmcpl.org.