PAINTED POST, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Y at Watson Woods was filled with holiday spirit on Wednesday afternoon for the first Winter Wonderland semi-formal, a special dance for everyone. Organizers invited adults of all abilities to the dance and strived to make it inclusive for all.

Typically, when people think of a "semi-formal," they think of a high school dance. However, the Corning Family YMCA's Winter Wonderland brought the fun to all adults on Wednesday to help kick off the holiday season.

People wore their dancing shoes and festive attire and, most importantly, enjoyed the time with family and friends.

"We wanted to be able to give everyone an opportunity to get dressed, have fun," said Gail Hostuttler, the executive director of the Corning Family YMCA. "We have refreshments, we have photo booths and we have a DJ. So it just gets everybody out of the box. As opposed to, we're going to go walk in the mall, we're going to go to the Y and exercise. This is a fun activity that brings everybody together."

Some attendees say the dance accomplished exactly that. For one guest in particular, James Pawlak, the event was extra special. The dance also happened to be held on Pawlak's birthday and he says it was a great way to celebrate his big day.

"It's a very fun event to be with friends and we all get to dance together and hang out as a group," said Pawlak.

While there were several things to do and plenty of opportunities for people to enjoy the environment, YMCA organizers also created a break-away room for guests in case they needed to take a break from all the excitement.

But, many of the guests didn't leave the dance floor for more than a few minutes at a time.

"I want people to understand that, hey, being who you are is important," said Ernie Lamour, the president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Rochester. "In the society we live in, we're supposed to welcome everybody with open arms regardless. So, having a great time regardless of your disabilities, that's what today is all about. It's fun. It really is."

This was the first time the Winter Wonderland event was held at The Y and it will not be the last. Lamour says they plan to make this an annual event and continue the YMCA's mission of providing accessible and fun programming to everyone across the region.

Also, Hostuttler says the Corning Family branch specifically is working to make additions to the Y. For example, they are looking to add a sensory room and a portable kitchen to teach life skills.

For more information on upcoming events, you can check out the YMCA of Greater Rochester's website. The Corning Family branch's information can be found here.