Tuxes has been fitted, gowns altered, corsages and boutonnieres crafted, and cars washed, as tonight is prom.

The annual Washington High School grand march and prom is being held today. Rustic romance is tonight’s theme, with decor featuring a pergola, pallet wall, mason jars, old doors, and galvanized buckets filled with flowers. The grand march will be held from 7:30 to 9 p.m. with the dance from 9 to 11 p.m. After prom will be held from 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.

Washington County Sheriff Jared Schneider tells KCII News he wants it to be a fun and safe night in southeast Iowa, “Number one we want kids to enjoy their special evening. Number two and most important we want to make sure that the kids make it home safely.” He recommends parents talk to their kids before going out, “One of the things that parents need to keep in mind is to remind your child you would rather have that phone call at 2 a.m. than have them make a decision that affects the rest of their life. If they are ever in a situation that involves drinking, drugs or something else they are uncomfortable with, they can make a phone call to mom and dad that helps them get out of that situation and stay safe”. Schneider says there are many important things including driving safety, seat belt use, distracted driving, fatigued driving, responsibility, and planning.