This page tries to keep track of all contra dances, traditional square dances (but not Modern Western Square Dances), traditional waltz sessions and Scandinavian dances in Illinois including dance camps and weekends along with other events in Illinois which include contra dancing and these other forms. Because most of the information is gathered from web sites and the listings are not updated as frequently as the web sites, dancers should visit the web sites for up-to-date information. If you are aware of any dances, dance series or other events that should be included on this list, please e-mail me.
Schedule note:
As of January 1, 2021, the dance listings should be fairly up to date including whether dances are canceled although I am behind in keeping up to date with festivals, weekends, etc.. At this point, my assumption is that all dances and events are canceled unless they are virtual/on-line. Since we've entered the 2020-2021 "season" for many series and they never posted dates, information about evening/afternoon dances is getting "thin". Also note that some dance weekends, etc. are already postponing events from winter/spring of 2021 to similar dates in 2022.
Conversations and cancelations are happening every day in connection with dances as part of regular series and also weekends, festivals, etc. I'll try to keep current as much as possible, but please check the individual web sites, Facebook groups/pages, e-mail lists, etc. for the most up-to-date information about a dance or other event that you may want to attend.
Alto Pass: Dance at Hedman Vineyards 560 Chestnut St, Alto Pass, Illinois 62905 from 1pm to 4pm. Free admission. Dance will be held inside. Web site: http://www.peachbarn.com.
Anna: Dance at Vina's Dance Studio 125 W Davie St, Anna, IL 62906. Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m with a Free beginners’ lessons from 6:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. Requested Donation: $5.00; $1.00 for students. Web site: https://sites.google.com/site/capecontradance/cape-girardeau-mo-contra-dance.
Belvidere - Boone County Harvest Fest - Squares: An evening square dance is part of this day-long, multi-activity festival held in Belvidere Park & Baltic Mill (day) Conservation District, Spencer Park & Pavilion (evening) in late October. Web site: http://www.boonecountyharvestfest.com.
Berywn: Dance at Wire, 6815 Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn, Illinois 60402 at 8pm. Web site: http://wireismusic.com/.
Bishop Hill - Midsommar Music Festival: is a one-day series of events in mid-June which includes a dance. Web site: https://bishophillheritage.org.
Bishop Hill - Christmas Dance Barn Dance at the Old Colony School in Bishop Hill at 7pm. This is our traditional Christmas dance in the historic village of Bishop Hill, located just off Route 34, 3 miles west of Galva. You are encouraged to come to town early, walk the luminary-lit streets, visit the quaint shops and listen to holiday music. And the magnificent PCA Madrigal Choir will once again bless us with song during the break. You're welcome to bring a treat to share. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/RustyPickupBarnDance.
Bishop Hill - Old Colony School: Dance at the Old Colony School 405 West Main Street, Bishop Hill, IL, 61419 from 7pm to 10pm. Cost: $7 suggested donation, $20 maximum for families. Come a few minutes early if you would like to learn the basics. Beginners, families and singles are always welcome at Rusty Pickup dances. No partner needed. You are invited to bring a treat to share at intermission. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/rusty.pickup.barn.dance/.
Bishop Hill - Agricultural Days: Bishop Hill's biggest event features traditional 19th century demonstrations, harvest activities, music, dancing, farm produce, and Old Settlers' Colony Stew. Find a gathering of vendors in the village park selling early country antiques, primitives, and handcrafted goods. See blacksmithing demonstrations in the park and enjoy live music behind the Bjorklund Hotel. Web site: https://bishophillheritage.org.
Brimfield: Dance at the Brimfield Public Library, 111 S. Galena Ave. Brimfield, IL 61517. Time to be determined. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/rusty.pickup.barn.dance/.
Carbondale: April through October Barn Dances from 4:00pm to 6:00pm on 4th Saturdays (5th Saturday in May) with live music in the Back Room at the Longbranch Coffeehouse just across the tracks on the Square in Downtown Carbondale. We do contra and square dances to live, old-time music. All moves taught. Everyone welcome -- no partner, costume, or experience necessary. Kids welcome but please keep an eye on them. There's no charge but a hat will be passed to give the musicians and caller something for their time and effort. Longbranch Coffeehouse is in downtown Carbondale at 100 E. Jackson, one block north of Main St (IL 13 West) and a half block east of Illinois Ave (US 51 North). (It's just east of the RR tracks.) For more information: Barb Sibert (618) 549-1595 orbsibert2001@yahoo.com or Erin Palmer (618) 457-5460. Web site: None.
Charleston - Squares - McGrady Inn: Event at the McGrady Inn, 803 6th St., Charleston. 7:00pm Refreshments; 7:30pm Concert; 9:00pm Square Dance. Web site: None.
Chicago - Dance Weekend: The University of Chicago Folk Arts Community sponsors an annual dance weekend in mid-April. Web site: http://uchicagofac.wix.com/contra#!danceweekend/c2414.
Chicago - Folk and Roots Festival: held each year in July at Welles Park - between Montrose and Sunnyside along Lincoln Avenue, directly across from the Sulzer Library. Sponsored by the Old Town School of Folk Music. Web site: http://www.chicagofolkandroots.org.
Chicago - Folk Festival: The University of Chicago Folk Festival is held annually in early February and includes a bit of dancing. Web site: http://fac.uchicago.edu/.
Chicago - Hyde Park - Ida Noyes: The the University of Chicago Folk Arts Community sponsors dances on a non-periodic basis, generally, but not always, with dancing from 7:30-10:00 PM in the 3rd Floor theater of Ida Noyes Hall, 1212 East 59th Street( with a beginner lesson at 7 PM). Tickets will be sold at the door: $5 for Students (with ID); $8 for Non-students; $2 for High schoolers and below Web site: http://uchicagofac.wix.com/contra.
Chicago - Squares - FIZZ: The Fizz Bar & Grill is located at 3220 N. Lincoln in Chicago, just north of Belmont on Lincoln. Street parking. Square dance from 8pm to 1am. $6 admission. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/914559315245199/.
Chicago - Old Town School of Folk Music - Square and Ceilidh Dance: Dance is at 6:30pm at the Atlantic Bar and Grill with $5 admission for dancers. All dances will be taught. All are easy to learn and fun to do. Web site: http://oldtownschool.org.
Chicago - Irish American Center: Dances on some Mondays at the Irish American Center, 4626 North Knox Avenue, Chicago, IL from 7:00pm to 9:30pm (beginners' workshop at 6:30pm). Usually $7-$10 (sliding scale - effective October 1, 2016) at the door. Call 224-534-9173. The Chicago Barn Dance Company sponsors and supports contra dance, traditional square dance and old-time music in the Chicago area. Our old-fashioned barn dances are open to the public, with no costume, partner or experience necessary. Beginners are welcome and should arrive early in the evening, when the dances are usually easier and taught more completely. To contact us, send email to info@ChicagoBarnDance.org or call 224-534-9173. Web site: http://www.chicagobarndance.org.
Chicago - Breaking Up Thanksgiving: is an old-time music and dance weekend in Chicago over the weekend following Thanksgiving. The program is produced by volunteers. Web site: http://www.chicagobarndance.org.
Chicago - Queer Contra Dance: Co-founded by Chicagoans Peter McDowell and John Legge. Doors open at 6:00, Lesson begins at 6:30, Dance goes from 7:00 to 9:30. Location: 2nd Unitarian Church, 656 W Barry Ave. Admission by suggested donation of $10, paid at the door. No one turned away for lack of funds. Contra dance is a form of folk dance, similar to square dancing, but with lines of dancers rather than squares. Admission to Queer Contra is a sliding scale of $ 0-10, payable at the door. Potluck snack and beverages encouraged. For more information, contact Peter McDowell at peter@petermcdowell.com or look for Queer Contra Chicago on Facebook. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/QueerContraChicago/ or http://www.lcfd.org/queer-contra-dance-chicago.html or https://chicagoqueercontra.wordpress.com/.
Chicago - Queer Contra Dance - Crossfire: Queer Contra welcomes everyone - straight or gay! This *special edition* dance is held in conjunction with Chi-Town Square's Crossfire event. Admission to Queer Contra is a sliding scale of $0-10, payable at the door. No advance planning or experience is needed and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Potluck snack and beverages encouraged. Dance lessons for newcomers from 6:30pm to 7:00pm, dance from 7:00pm to 9:00pm with a break at 8:00pm for potluck refreshments. Location: Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60640. Web site: http://www.lcfd.org/queer-contra-dance-chicago.html.
Chicago - North Park Village Nature Center: Family Dance is from 1pm to 3pm at 5801 N. Pulaski Rd. Chicago IL 60646. Dance is free. Web site: http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks/North-Park-Village-Nature-Center/.
Chicago - Rebirth Gallery: Dance at 8pm at 2100 W Bradley (Rebirth Gallery aka Sky/ Jan Heyn-Cubacub's house). Come for the dancing, hootin and hollering and foot-stomping tunes before the New Year gets here! No experience necessary! Free! BYO food and donations for our beautiful bands/caller - *please bring dance/ soft soled shoes! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/491146704337188.
Chicago - Heartland Cafe: Heartland Café's Valentines Day Barn Dance. Singles or Pairs! Beginners welcome! All Ages! Come out and enjoy Valentine's Day in a low key but high energy way! We're having a barn dance. You don't need to know how to dance, there will be a basic lesson. You don't need a partner, although pairs are welcome. We'll be dancing squares, pairs and lines! PLUS, we'll have a delicious all-you-can eat dessert table for your Valentine sweet tooth. Fresh chocolate-dipped fruits and other goodies. Vegan chocolate cake, carrot cake and more! Time: 9:00pm-10:30pm. Cost: $12 advance, $15 at the door. Includes full night and all-you-can eat dessert. Live music until 12 am. Location: 7000 N Glenwood, Chicago, IL 60626. Web site: http://www.heartlandcafe.com/.
Chicago - Harvest Dinner and Barn Dance: At the Heartland Harvest Dinner, 7000 N Glenwood, Chicago, IL 60626. Tickets for dinner and dance are $25 (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2156253) or $10 for just the dance (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2156255). Half the proceeds will benefit the nascent Rogers Park Food Co-op! Dinner is from 5:30pm to 7:00pm at the Cafe and dancing from 7pm to 9pm at the Red Line Tap, 7006 North Glenwood Avenue. Web site: http://www.heartlandcafe.com/.
Chicago - The Rebirth Gallery: Dance at The Rebirth Gallery, 2100 W. Bradley, from 8pm to 11pm. The floor is marley, which is kind of rubbery, so soft soles are recommended. Donations go to the band and caller! Feel free to bring goodies to eat, however alcohol is not allowed. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/TheRebirthGallery.
Chicago - Square Roots Festival: The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the Square Roots Festival happening on Lincoln Avenue, between Montrose and Wilson. Variety of music events, workshops, jams, family fun, food and drink options. Includes a family dance. Web site: http://www.squareroots.org/.
Chicago - Wilson Abbey: Dance at Wilson Abbey (enter through Everybody's Coffee, 935 West Wilson Avenue at 7:30pm. Admission $5; students $3. Web site: http://wilsonabbey.com.
Chicago - Fiddle Club of the World: Barn dance sponsored by the Chicago chapter of the Fiddle Club of the World. Location: Atlantic Bar, 5062 North Lincoln, IL. Time: 7pm. Web site: http://drdosido.net/fiddleclub/.
Chicago - Squares - iO: Barn Dance Jubilee at iO Chicago, 1501 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, Illinois 60642 from 10:30pm to 1:00am. Admission is only five dollars, and FREE for ticketholders to any of iO's 8:00 shows. Web site: http://ioimprov.com.
Chicago - Midwest Morris Ale: The 2015 edition of this event will be centered around the Chicago Hostel, 24 E. Congress Parkway in late May. Many times the event includes a contra dance but it does have an emphasis on Morris dancing. Web site: http://www.midwestmorrisale.org.
Chicago - Squares - Big Shoulders: Dances at various dates, times, and locations. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/bigshoulderssquaredance.
Chicago - Midwest Access Coalition: Benefit dance - Easy as Pie, a fundraiser for abortion access including Square/Contra Dancing, Pie Eating and Beer and Wine. Tickets are $15 advance/$20 door + Cash beer and PIE bar. Time is 5pm to 8pm. Location: Second Unitarian Church of Chicago, 656 W Barry Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60657 Questions? Email info@midwestaccesscoalition.org - Web site: http://www.midwestaccesscoalition.org/.
Chicago - Squares - Empty Bottle: Dance at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N Western Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60622 from noon to 5pm. Web site: http://emptybottle.com.
Chicago - Midwest Sing & Stomp: The Midwest Sing & Stomp is an annual celebration of the most exciting traditional music and dance this city has to offer. It features a honky-tonk two-step, blues dance, two hours of square and contra dancing, plus a full day of exceptional American old-time, blues, Scottish, Serbian, gospel, English, Georgian and son jarocho music that all calls Chicago home. Location: Beat Kitchen. Website where we're taking donations: http://singandstomp.com/ Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MWSingandStomp/ - Direct folks to buy tickets here: http://www.beatkitchen.com/event/1536102-midwest-sing-stomp-chicago/ - Web site: http://singandstomp.com/.
Chicago - Grant Park: Join us in Square and Contra Dancing, Line Dancing, Polka, Waltz dance lessons from 4-5pm followed by live Country and Square Dance music from 5 to 7pm. Presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), Chicago SummerDance is a FREE event that brings people of all ages and skill levels together on a 4,900-square-foot, open-air dance floor made of 100% recycled material. The series offers free, introductory one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors followed by live music and dancing. The diverse lineup showcases various traditional and modern dance styles from all corners of the globe. Be sure to check out the Chicago SummerDance Grille with food and beverages available for purchase. Please note that outside alcohol is strictly prohibited at Chicago SummerDance. Web site: http://www.chicagosummerdance.org.
Chicago - Squares - Maypole Festival: Day-long festival with a square dance at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N Western Avenue. Web site: http://www.maypolefolkfest.com/.
Chicago - Squares - Heartbeat Hoedown: Fundraising event for Dancing Well: The Soldier Project Sunday, February 12 at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60618 from 6 PM - 10:30 PM CST. $10 in advance; $12 at the door. 21+. Square dancing! Two-stepping! Raffle! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/257998034613235/.
Chicago - 606 Block Party: Please join us for the third annual 606 Block Party: A Walk with Neighbors— a day-long celebration of the community spirit of The 606. Take part in A Walk with Neighbors, listen to live music at two stages, and celebrate the start of summer with a community-centered street festival on Humboldt Boulevard featuring hands-on fun for all ages. Admission is free. Includes a contra dance. Web site: http://www.the606.org.
Chicago - Barn Dance - Pulaski North Library: Mini free Barndance at the Pulaski North Library, 4300 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60639-4831 from 1:30pm to 4:15pm. Come dance or play with us, to keep us from withering into unmuscled dizzy beginners during this long break! This is meant to be for "us regulars" but if you want to bring along someone new, just give them a bit of a lesson before they arrive. No fee. We have a couple of musicians and callers coming but we could use more! And of course we need dancers too. We will have fun dancing no matter what and who we get! The library meeting rooms allows light refreshments, no alcohol, I will bring some snacks (you could bring some too) but we will NOT have coolers of ice water or cups, please bring along your own beverage (or the library will have drinking fountains somewhere). Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/280730125921887/.
Chicago - Barn Dance Apocolypse: Come on out to the Annual Barn Dance Apocalypse at Irish American Heritage Center Ballroom, 4626 N Knox Ave, Chicago, IL 60630. Square dance, contra, line, 2 step, polka, and waltz the night away. It doesn't matter if you have 2 left feet, or only one foot left. We'll teach you everything you know! Come alone or bring a partner! Just be sure to dress for the occasion. If you've been before, you know how magical it is, so tell all your friends! If you haven't been before, get ready for a western wonderland of dancing with friends and strangers (a.k.a. friends you haven't met yet). Yes, ladies and gents, when the rapture comes, we'll all be dancing! Tickets $20-$25. Doors open at 7:00pm, dancing at 8pm. Web site: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-15th-annual-barn-dance-apocalypse-tickets-85154257677.
Chicago - Squares - Beat Kitchen: Midwest Sing and Stomp and Beat Kitchen host a Cajun Fais Do-do from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60618. $10 | 21+ - A Sunday afternoon of squares, two-steps and waltzes, with some of the best cajun and old-time music in town. Beginners welcome–instruction will be provided! Cajun at 2:30pm; squares at 4:10pm. Web site: https://singandstomp.com/.
Chicago - Scottish/Contra: The best of modern contra meets rediscovered Scottish dances in a cello-powered, fiddle-fueled dancestravaganza. Come as you are—no experience or partner necessary. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes (dance shoes encouraged). The calling will be gender-free. 7pm to 9:30pm. the dance! Location: Midwest Academy for Gifted Education, 1164 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60642. Admission by donation. Web site: http://thesesc.org.
Chillicothe - Australian New Year's Eve Party: Dance at the Shore Acres Club House, Chillicothe at 7pm. We're doin' it again, mates! Close out the old year with our (now) traditional Australian New Year's Eve dance party. Get a jump on the new year, dance off those extra holiday pounds and have a rollicking good time Down Under. Costumes are encouraged and you are invited to bring a treat to share. Web site: None.
Chillicothe - Shore Acres Clubhouse: Dance from 7 PM - 10 PM at the Shore Acres Clubhouse, 100 Park Blvd., Chillicothe, Illinois 61523. COST: $7 suggested donation, $20 maximum for families. Come a few minutes early if you would like to learn the basics. Beginners, families and singles always welcome at Rusty Pickup dances. No partner needed. You are invited to bring a treat to share at intermission. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/RustyPickupBarnDance.
DeKalb - Intro to Contra Dancing: Event at the NIU Holmes Student Center from 1pm to 4pm in the Promenade Lounge. Take a break from the squares, rounds and lines! Join Chicago Barn Dance Co. callers and musicians for an afternoon of Contra Dancing. No experience is needed! Two Intro Workshop will teach all you need to know to enjoy this new revival of an old dance form. Web site: http://www.chicagobarndance.org.
Downers Grove: The Plank Road Folk Music Society holds periodic dance parties on Saturdays 7:00 at the Two Way Street Coffee House, 1047 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, 630-969-9720. Reels, squares, line dancing, waltzes and more, plus music of our great band. Fun for the whole family! All dances taught and called. No experience, costume or partner needed.
Earlville - Homegrown Gathering: Homestead and bluegrass festival with one square dance at Stonehouse Farm Eco-Retreat and Sanctuary, 3719 Suydam Road, Earlville, IL, 60518 within Paw Paw Township, DeKalb County. Web site: http://homegrowngathering.com/.
Earlville - Squares: Dance at the Harding Community Building, 1625 N 4012th Rd, Earlville. 2:00 pm Dance, 5:00 pm Potluck Supper. Web site: None.
Edelstein: Dance at the Edelstein Church, 2903 W Main St, Edelstein, IL 61526 at 7pm. Advanced contras; no charge but a donation to the church for use of the hall will be appreciated. Web site: None.
El Paso: Dance at the Legacy Building, 1 West Front Street, El Paso, Illinois. Dancing starts at 7pm. As always, beginners, singles and families are welcome at Rusty Pickup dances. You are invited to bring a treat to share, and we encourage you to bring water in a reusable container. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/RustyPickupBarnDance.
Elsah: Dances from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Starting in January 2011, dances will be held on the 2nd Saturday of each month. No dance, however, in June, July. Live music. All dances will be taught - no experience or partner necessary. Farley's Music Hall, 37 Mill Street. Cost: $5 per person, $15 max per family, students with ID 1/2 price. Light refreshments provided. All ages welcome! For more info, contact the Youngs: runningndwoods@gmail.com - 618-374-2067. Sponsored by the Historic Elsah Foundation. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org/index.php/elsah.
Evanston - Squares: Dance at the American Legion Hall (Post #42), 1030 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 at 7:30pm. Web site: http://www.chicagobluegrass.com/.
Evanston - First Night: A barn dance in Roy Hall, starting at 7:00pm, is one of the activities on the slate of events this evening. Web site: https://firstnightevanston.org/wp/.
Evanston - Northwestern: Dance at Northwestern University @ 600 Haven St, Evanston, IL 60201 from 7pm to 10pm. Beginner lesson before the dance. $5 students/$8-$10 non-students. Web site: http://www.chicagobarndance.org.
Geneva - Fox Valley Folk Music and Storytelling Festival: is held at the end of August/beginning of September at Island Park in Geneva with a variety of music, storytelling and dance stages. http://www.foxvalleyfolk.com/.
Glen Ellyn - Church of the Resurrection Fall Festival: Free Dance at the Church of the Resurrection Fall Festival. Glenbard West High School, 670 Crescent Boulevard, Glen Ellyn, IL. Dance from 11am - 2:30pm. Web site: http://www.chicagobarndance.org.
Glen Ellyn - Family - Grace Lutheran: Weary of winter? Defeat cabin fever at a free family barn dance! Fun for all ages, with energetic, live fiddle music and live dancing by YOU! All dances taught, no experience necessary, no partner necessary. Grace Lutheran Church of Glen Ellyn @ 493 Forest Ave, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 from 2p to 3:15pm. Web site: http://www.chicagobarndance.org/a>.
Hales Corner: Don't wait until AFTER Thanksgiving to burn off those calories! Get a jump on it by joining us for some for fun on the Tuesday BEFORE Thanksgiving. We'll be dancing some New England chestnuts and some of our favorite mid-19th century dances. This is our last session at Hales Corners Library before our relocation to Hales Corners Village Hall on December 9. Event is from 6:00pm to 8:55pm. Web site: http://www.mcfls.org/halescorners/.
Havana: Barn Dance sponsored by the Havana Park District from 7pm to 9pm. $10.00/person; $20.00/family at the Gym, 127 East Jefferson Street, Havana, IL. Web site: http://havanaparkdistrict.com.
Hudson - A Little Bit of Everything: occurs on various Saturdays at 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm at the Hudson Town Hall (107 Walnut, Hudson, IL). This dance will primarily feature English Country, Irish Ceili and some fun and easy circle dances. We will be dancing to recorded music. No experience necessary, no partner necessary. All dances will be taught and called. No admission is charged, but we will accept donations to help with the cost of renting the hall. So bring your dancing shoes and come join us for a fun evening! We hope to add more styles of dance in the future. Please let me know if there is a dance that you are particularly interested in! Email LBOE.Dance@yahoo.com - Web site: None.
Hudson - Rusty Barn Dance: Dance at the Hudson Town Hall at 7p. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/rusty.pickup.barn.dance/.
Illiopolis: Prairie Land Dance Club presents a Contra / Circle / Square Dance at 7pm. Location: 650 E. Matilda, Illiopolis, IL 62539. Caller will walk through routines -- come out and enjoy these dance styles! It's loads of fun whether you've danced it before or not!! Web site: http://www.pldc.org/events.htm.
La Fox - Garfield Farm: Garfield Farm Museum in La Fox will host a Settlers' Contra Dance to celebrate the Garfield family purchase of the farm on July 8, 1841. The dance is a traditional mid-19th century dance featuring contras (reels), quadrilles (squares) and novelty (circle) dances that were once common. There is a $10 donation per person and refreshments and desserts will be for sale. Reserve tickets at 630-584-8485 or info@garfieldfarm.org. The Settlers' Contra Dance is at 7 p.m. on Saturday in the restored 1842 threshing barn at Garfield Farm Museum on Garfield Rd in La Fox. Novices are welcome to arrive at 6:30 p.m. for a basic introduction to some of the dance steps used in the evening. Web site: http://www.garfieldfarm.org.
Lincoln: Contras, squares and waltzes, usually but not always on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 7pm to 10pm with a beginners' workshop at 6:30pm. Location: Lincoln Park District, 1400 Primm Rorad. It's fun for everyone, singles, couples, kids, teens, seniors and families participate together in Barn dancing. Dress casually for a fun night in jeans and/or dresses. No prior experience needed. Free admission! If you want it to be! Donations for dance hall cost accepted. Finger foods to share appreciated. Information; Keith Schmidt: keith@ezfundance.com or Joanne Schmidt: joanne@ezfundance.com - Web site: http://www.ezfundance.com/.
McHenry: The Unitarian Universalist Congregation Presents a Barn Dance from 7pm to 10pm. Beverages and Snacks Provided. "Goodie" Basket Raffles & Door Prizes. Tickets are $15 single, $25 couples. To purchase tickets contact David Ayres at (315)308-5266 or northernayres@comcast.net - Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 5603 West Bull Valley Road, (just west of Crystal Lake Rd), McHenry, IL. Web site: http://joomla.uucofwoodstock.org.
Monticello: Special Barn Dance with a potluck at 5:00pm, and a dance at 7:00pm at the Kalyx Center, 442 E 1300 North Road. Web site: http://www.Urbana-Contra.org.
Monticello/Urbana - Illinois All-Weekend Barn Dance: features two evenings and an afternoon of dancing and other activities during the weekend at two locations. Web site: http://www.urbana-contra.org.
Morris: Morris Old Time Dances held on the 4th Tuesday of each month, except November and December, when it's the 2nd Tuesday, at the Peace Lutheran Church, 101 Candlelight Lane, Morris Morris, Illinois 60450, 7:00 to 9:30 pm. The suggested donation is $6 per adult. Children are free. Web site: None.
Morris - Gebhard Woods Dulcimer Festival: is a weekend music festival in mid-June at Gebhard Woods State Park with at least one dance during the weekend. Web site: http://www.GebhardDulcimer.org.
Mossville: Dance at Camp Wokanda starting at 3pm. Cost: $7 suggested donation, $20 maximum for families. Come a few minutes early if you would like to learn the basics. Beginners, families and singles always welcome at Rusty Pickup dances. No partner needed. You are invited to bring a treat to share at intermission. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/RustyPickupBarnDance.
Peoria - Rusty Pickup Barn Dance: We hold old-time barn dances monthly in various halls in the central Illinois region. Squares, circle mixers, contras, reels, waltzes, polkas and such. All dances are taught by an experienced caller. No experience necessary. Beginners, families and singles welcome. Always live music by one of several Illinois string bands, including the ever-popular Rusty Pickup String Band. You don't need any special costume. Just wear comfortable clothes, good shoes and be prepared to have a fun time. Cost: $7 per person, $20 max per family. Dances are usually on a Friday or Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/RustyPickupBarnDance..
Princeville - Heritage Harvest: Barn dance as part of the Princeville Heritage Museum Heritage Harvest - weekend festival with a variety of activities including a barn dance. Web site: http://www.princevilleheritagemuseum.com/.
Rock Island: Illowa Community Folk Dance sponsors Contras, Squares and Circles on 1st Fridays from 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. at the Singing Bird Nature Center, Black Hawk State Historic Site, 15th St. Off of Black Hawk Rd. All dances taught: no partners necessary (the dances are usually danced in couples, but we change partners frequently); children welcome with adult participation; come once, come often. Cost: Donation to cover costs for Bands, hall and publicity. For information: Drew and Maura McGrath Nagle, dance leaders at 788-8986 or 788-5143. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/IllowaCommunityFolkDance/
Rock Island - Valentine Dance and Moonlight Walk: Valentine Indoor Music and Moonlight Walk from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Watch Tower Lodge at Black Hawk State Historic Site. Take a leisurely self-guiding stroll outside on a luminary-lit path and nearly full moon. Too cold or snowy for the walk, come into the Lodge and keep warm by the fire. Enjoy freshly-made donuts (the crew made 1000 last year) and juice/cider or hot cocoa. Live music and dancing. This event is free to the public and is aimed at all ages, singles, couples and families. For more information call 309-788-9536. Web site: http://www.blackhawkpark.org.
Rockford - Spring Awakening Gathering: is a one-day series of events sponsored by the Severson Dells Nature Center in March which includes a dance. Web site: http://seversondells.com/index.php.
Round Lake Beach: Dance at the Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center, 2007 Civic Center Way from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Admission: $7 adult, $5 youth (7 to 17 years old). Bring family and friends, no partner needed, all dances taught by the caller who will explain the moves. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring your own water bottle. Contra dance is open to everyone regardless of experience. Web site: http://www.rlbciviccenter.org/cultural-and-civic-center-events-illinois.php.
Toulon - Newsroom: Dance at the Newsroom, 101 W. Main St., Toulon, Illinois 61483. Check to confirm time. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/rusty.pickup.barn.dance/.
Urbana - Anderson: The Urbana Country Dancers host contra dances to live fiddle and string band music with featured callers in an atmosphere friendly to singles, couples, groups, and families. All dances are taught (walked-through) prior to dancing. We ask dancers to wear clean, soft soled shoes to protect the lovely sprung-wood dance floor. Comfortable clothes are also recommended. Dances are generally from 8 to 11 P.M., though we occasionally offer pre-dance workshops. A $5.00 donation is requested for most dances to fund the fees for the bands, callers and dance hall. A higher contribution may be requested for special events. This dance is held at Tom and Kathy Anderson's home, 2206 N. Brownfield Road. Web site: http://www.Urbana-Contra.org.
Urbana - Illini Student Union: The Urbana Country Dancers host contra dances to live fiddle and string band music with featured callers in an atmosphere friendly to singles, couples, groups, and families. All dances are taught (walked-through) prior to dancing. We ask dancers to wear clean, soft soled shoes to protect the lovely sprung-wood dance floor. Comfortable clothes are also recommended. Dances are generally from 8 to 11 P.M., though we occasionally offer pre-dance workshops. A $5.00 donation is requested for most dances to fund the fees for the bands, callers and dance hall. A higher contribution may be requested for special events. This dance is held at the Illini Student Union, Room 314, 1401 W. Green. Web site: http://www.Urbana-Contra.org.
Urbana - Febfest: The Central Illinois English Country Dancers, Illini Folk Dance Society and the Urbana Country Dancers hold a weekend of English and American dance and music at the Illini Student Union, 1401 W. Green Street, Urbana, on the campus of the University of Illinois in mid-March. Register in advance for a discount. Web site: http://www.centralillinoisecd.org/weekend.html.
Urbana - Marchfest: The Central Illinois English Country Dancers, Illini Folk Dance Society and the Urbana Country Dancers hold a weekend of English and American dance and music at the Illini Student Union, 1401 W. Green Street, Urbana, on the campus of the University of Illinois in mid-March. Register in advance for a discount. Web site: http://www.centralillinoisecd.org/weekend.html.
Urbana - Jan Jam: The Urbana Country Dancers sponsor the annual Chambana Jan Jam, a special weekend of music and dance at the Phillips Recreation Center, 505 W. Stoughton, including plenty of dancing along with open mic calling, open stage bands jamming and a community potluck on Saturday night. Web site: http://www.urbana-contra.org/jan_jam.html.
Urbana - Phillips Recreation Center: The Urbana Country Dancers host contra dances to live fiddle and string band music with featured callers in an atmosphere friendly to singles, couples, groups, and families. All dances are taught (walked-through) prior to dancing. We ask dancers to wear clean, soft soled shoes to protect the lovely sprung-wood dance floor. Comfortable clothes are also recommended. Dances are generally from 8 to 11 P.M. Admission for most dances is on a sliding scale from $5 to $10, pay what you feel is right. A higher fee may be charged for special events. Dances are at the Phillips Recreation Center, 505 W. Stoughton. Web site: http://www.Urbana-Contra.org.
Urbana - Champaign-Urbana Folk and Roots Festival: combines performances, street-dances, jam sessions, and workshops with national, regional, and local artists in a variety of genres such as Cajun, bluegrass, blues, old-time, Mexican conjunto, salsa, and jazz, among others. The Festival will also include street performances, storytellers, and art-making in special locations. The celebration will take place in and around downtown Urbana annually at the end of September. Web site: http://folkandroots.org/.
Urbana - Channing-Murray Foundation: The Urbana Country Dancers host contra dances to live fiddle and string band music with featured callers in an atmosphere friendly to singles, couples, groups, and families. All dances are taught (walked-through) prior to dancing. We ask dancers to wear clean, soft soled shoes to protect the lovely sprung-wood dance floor. Comfortable clothes are also recommended. Dances are generally from 8 to 11 P.M., though we occasionally offer pre-dance workshops. There is a new dancer orientation workshop at 7:30 prior to most dances. Admission $5 (students/seniors $4; under 13 free). Special events may have a higher admission price. Dances are at the Channing-Murray Foundation, 1209 W. Oregon in Urbana, IL. Web site: http://www.Urbana-Contra.org.
Urbana - Squares - Channing Murray Foundation: Show and square dance at 1209 W. Oregon St., Urbana, Illinois 61801. Come out for a raucous good time with a stage show and a full-fledged square dance. Come watch, listen, dance and smile :) Bring friends, no experience required. All dances will be taught first! $7, $5 students, kids free. Web site: http://folkandroots.org.
Urbana - Urbana Landmark Hotel: Dance at the Hotel, 210 South Race Street Urbana, IL 61801. May or may not be part of the Champaign-Urbana Folk and Roots Festival. Web site: http://www.urbana-contra.org.
Warrenville - Fermilab - 2nd Sunday: The Fermilab Folk Club sponsors regular monthly barn dances to promote and preserve traditional square and contra dancing with 2nd Sunday Dances from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., September through June. All dances are held in the Kuhn Village Barn. Admission is $7. Children under 12 are free. 12 to 18 year olds and people over 65 are $4. The Village Barn is located near the east entrance to Fermilab. Web site: http://orgs.fnal.gov/folkclub/.
Warrenville - Fermilab - 3rd Sunday: The Fermilab Folk Club sponsors regular monthly barn dances to promote and preserve traditional square and contra dancing with 3rd Sunday Dances from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., November through April. All dances are held in the Kuhn Village Barn. Admission is $7. Children under 12 are free. 12 to 18 year olds and people over 65 are $4. The Village Barn is located near the east entrance to Fermilab. Web site: http://orgs.fnal.gov/folkclub/.
Washington: Dance at the Washington Middle School, 1100 N Main St, Washington, IL 61571. Dance starta at 7pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/RustyPickupBarnDance.
This page is part of the Contrdancelinks.com web site. For more information about contra dancing, visit these other site pages:
*The Colorado link will bring you to Dancing on the Web. The Maine link will bring you to the Downeast Friends of the Folk Arts. The New Mexico link will bring you to the New Mexico Folk Music and Dance Society. The Utah link will bring you to Utah Contradance Information. These fine organizations and individuals already have complete listings for these states and there is no reason for me to duplicate their efforts.
**As far as I know, there are no regular dances or events in Mississippi, South Dakota or Wyoming, but I have created pages if something changes in the future.