ATLANTA—The second Sunday of February has become “World Marriage Day” in 43 states and several military bases in foreign countries.

World Marriage Day honors couples as the head of the family, the basic unit of society.  The observance salutes the beauty of a couple’s fidelity, sacrifice and joy in married life.

The Atlanta Area Worldwide Marriage Encounter leadership began celebrating World Marriage Day with a World Marriage Day Valentine Ball in 1986. Every year since then married couples have joined together for an evening of dinner, dancing and fellowship.

At a Marriage Day Ball couples are affirmed and uplifted in a joyous atmosphere. Special recognition is always given to the couple married the longest, as well as the newlywed couple married the shortest amount of time.

The 2014 World Marriage Day Ball will take place on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia, 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Road. The ball begins with cocktails at 6 p.m., with a dinner and silent auction to follow. The attire is semi-formal and black-tie optional. Cost is $100 before Jan. 18 and $115 per couple after that date.