Looks like it was a fun event and you're so right, these kinds of gatherings really need to happen more often. Personal face to face interaction came naturally for the older generation, we can learn a lot from them! Events like these renew and strengthen ties, really great!
It's always so funny to watch the progression of socialization during the evening. At first, people keeping to themselves or who they initially showed up with and about an hour or so it (and maybe a few drinks?) they begin to socialize a little more and get out on the dance floor.
We are a funny lot aren't we, us people ;)
It's like we need something to break the ice and then we can relax and all barriers come down, perhaps some caveman protective instinct LOL!
Or a drink or two like you say :)