The Wellesley Cotillion, the town’s annual formal winter dance for high school juniors and seniors, this year is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 31 from 7:30-10:30pm at the Verve Hotel in Natick.

Registration closes on Jan. 20th and financial help is available to ensure anyone who wants to attend can do so.

The Cotillion (see official website) is open to all juniors and seniors who reside in Wellesley, and to all juniors & seniors who attend Wellesley High School.

The Cotillion tradition began in the 1940s as “The Christmas Cotillion,” offering a forum for students to practice their manners and dancing skills.

Students today are asked to dress for the special occasion, go through the traditional receiving line, greet parent chaperones, and introduce their dates. Typically, about 600 students attend.

Snacks and drinks will be served, but not full meals. Students must arrive and leave the venue via chartered buses from Wellesley High School (more rules to know).

For Cotillion updates, follow @wellesleycotillion on Instagram or The Wellesley Cotillion on Facebook.

Questions? Email the Cotillion Committee: wellesleycotillion@gmail.com