What is Night to Shine at St. Croix Lutheran Academy?

Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs, ages 14 and older. Night to Shine started in 2015 with 44 locations across the world. St. Croix Lutheran Academy began serving as a Night to Shine host in 2017.  In 2020, this worldwide movement took place simultaneously at more than 720 locations in 50 states across the nation and 34 countries around the world…and the numbers continue to grow! After a pause for COVID, St. Croix Lutheran Academy is eager to host this spectacular event again in 2023.  

 

Every guest of Night to Shine will experience a red carpet welcome complete with friendly paparazzi. Guests will receive VIP treatment including hair and makeup stations, shoe shining stations, corsages and boutonnieres, karaoke, limo rides, and of course, dancing! The highlight of the night will come when every one of the Night to Shine guests is crowned as a king or queen of the prom.

 

When is St. Croix Lutheran Night to Shine?

St. Croix Lutheran Night to Shine will take place on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. 

 

Where is St. Croix Lutheran Night to Shine? 

St. Croix Lutheran Night to Shine will be held at:

 

St. Croix Lutheran Academy

1200 Oakdale Avenue

West Saint Paul, MN 55118

(See map at bottom of page)

 

Is there a cost to attend?

No. The Tim Tebow Foundation and community donors are generously sponsoring all of the event activities.  The only item that may require out of pocket expense on the part of the guest is their apparel for the evening.  See below for more details about what to wear.

 

What is the age group for Night to Shine guests?

Our guests should be 14 years or older by February 10, 2023.

 

Why is participation limited to 200 guests?

In order to maintain a safe and comfortable atmosphere, St. Croix Lutheran is limiting the number of guests to 200.  Each guest will be paired with a "buddy" at the event to accompany them for the evening. Buddies are student and adult volunteers who have been trained to relate well with the guests.  

 

How do I register to be an honored guest?

To register, simply go to the registration tab above and complete the online form.  Because space is limited, we encourage you to register in a timely manner.  Registration deadline is Friday, January 20th, but we anticipate being at capacity well before that.   

I have a friend who may be interested in coming.  Whom should they contact?

They may either contact the Night to Shine staff at St. Croix Lutheran through the Contact page with questions or you can encourage your friend to complete the registration form on this website.  

 

What should guests wear?

Night to Shine is meant to be a formal event so that each guest feels super special. Ladies are encouraged to wear a formal dress and men are encouraged to wear a suit or tux according to their comfort level.  Dresses and tuxedos will not be available at the event site.  

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Guys - Men's Wearhouse has stepped up to offer a great deal on a shirt, vest, and tie package - $40 plus $12 damage/handling fee.  Additionally, they are offering great discounts on a full suit rental. Details can be found here. Please provide Men's Wearhouse the Reference Group # 12277778 and let them know that you are with St. Croix Lutheran Academy Night to Shine. Fitting Deadline is Friday, January 27. 

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Gals - We want to thank Raffiné Bridal in Woodbury for offering a fantastic limited-time deal of free and deeply discounted dresses and jewelry for our female honored guests.  That offer expired in late November and many guests were able to benefit! 

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When should guests arrive?

There are two time periods to arrive, depending on your last name.  We ask that guests whose last name begins with A-M arrive between 5:00-5:30 p.m.   We ask that guests whose last name begins with N-Z arrive between 5:30-6:00 p. m.  This will allow wait time to be kept to a minimum.

 

What is the schedule for the event?

A full schedule can be viewed HERE. (Subject to change) 

 

Should guests eat before they arrive? 

Thanks to a generous donation from Chick-fil-A in West St. Paul, food will be provided during the event.  Any food allergies or concerns for the guests should be clearly communicated to the Night to Shine team during the registration process.  Every effort will be made to accommodate the guests' special dietary needs.

 

What are some activities that will take place during Night to Shine?

Night to Shine provides a red-carpet experience, complete with a friendly welcome from paparazzi, limousine rides, hair and makeup stations, shoe shining areas, a balloon artist, and of course, a dance floor.  Guests will also enjoy karaoke, photo opportunities, and special food/drinks.  

 

Should parents/caretakers attend with the guests?

Depending on the wishes of parents/caretakers, there is an option of dropping off and picking up or an option of staying and enjoying the hospitality room. Please indicate your preference on the registration form.  

 

What is the hospitality room? 

Through Night to Shine, we want to honor the incredible parents, family members, and caregivers for their lifetime commitment to caring for their loved ones with special needs.  The hospitality room (located in the same building as the Night to Shine prom) will provide the opportunity to rest and enjoy a night off, knowing that their loved one is having an amazing time with a personally assigned buddy in a safe, friendly, and Christ-centered environment.  Comfortable seating, light snacks, beverages, and entertainment will be provided.

 

What if I or someone I know is unable to register online?

If a guest is unable to register online, they should download the registration form and waivers at this link.  The registration forms/waivers can then be mailed to:

St. Croix Lutheran Academy

1200 Oakdale Avenue

West Saint Paul, MN 55118

c/o Night to Shine

 

What other services are available?

Qualified professionals will be on hand to assist with guests who require additional services, including a sensory room.  

 

I am not familiar with St. Croix Lutheran.  How can I learn more?

To learn more about St. Croix Lutheran Academy, visit here.  Did you know? St. Croix Lutheran offers a free friendship group called New Friends for people with special needs. To learn more, visit StCroixNewFriends.org. Also, Crown of Life Lutheran Church offers a worship experience designed specifically for individuals with special needs.  Click here for more information about Jesus Cares at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in West St. Paul.