Vicksburg will turn a little ritzier toward the end of this month, complete with a live 12-piece swing band and a chance to dress to the nines.

The third annual Ritz on the River will be held July 21 at the Vicksburg Convention Center, featuring Atlanta’s Rupert’s Orchestra and a multi-course meal.

“It’s not hard to get people to come to this event,” said Annette Kirklin, executive director of the convention center. “You don’t see anyone frowning.”

Kirklin said the purpose of the event is three-fold: to bring the community together, to attract event planners to book at the convention center and to donate to charity.

“We actually book three to four events a year (at the convention center) that come from this night,” she said.

This year’s band has played at events across the country including performances for The Coca-Cola Company, Turner Broadcasting, The Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games and Sports Illustrated, according to a press release.

“I search out bands people aren’t familiar with to keep things fresh,” Kirklin said. “They’ll play the classics and throw in some classic rock and top 40. There’s going to be a little bit for everyone in the audience.”

In addition to a different band, this year Kirklin said she got feedback from the community to decide the local charity to which a portion of the proceeds will be donated. This year’s even will benefit the local Leader in Me Initiative.

“That’s what we’ve tried to do every year to figure out where the heart strings are being pulled,” Kirklin said.

Vicksburg Warren County Chamber of Commerce executive director Jane Flowers said the program was a worthy cause.

“It builds self esteem, self confidence and if we can continue that through high school, we can totally change this community,” Flowers said. “It’s had an enormous impact on the community.”

Dinner show tickets are available for advanced purchase only and cost $50. General admission tickets are $20 in advance, $25 the day of the show and $15 for students.

Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000 or the Vicksburg Convention Center box office. Tables can be reserved for the dinner show with group purchases of 10.

“It’s going to be a great night of dancing,” Kirklin said.