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 Missouri including dance camps and weekends along with other events in Missouri 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.
Affton - Dance Party: Dance Party at Sarah Kaiser's house, 6412 Ashbury, Affton, MO 63123 starting at 7pm. More information at http://www.childgrove.org/index.php/about-dances/calling-party - Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Arcadia - Dustin Dunn Benefit Dance: Contra dance and spaghetti dinner in the Arcadia Academy Gym after the parade. Young Missouri Composer of the Year Dustin Dunn is getting help from the Arcadia Valley so he has a chance at a dream. An aspiring composer, Dustin is applying to a number of music schools. The application fees are much more than a young rural student can manage on his own. To help Dustin attain this dream, there will be a Contra Dance and Dinner fundraiser at the Arcadia Academy Gym in Arcadia, MO at 7pm. The event will immediately follow the annual Christmas parade which ends its parade route at the Academy. Dustin, a music student in Annapolis, MO, will be the focus of this "Christmas in the Valley" event. The public is invited to a free family style spaghetti dinner and Contra dance. It is free to the public with donations encouraged. There will also be a silent auction featuring items from local businesses. During the dance, Dustin will perform original compositions. He won the Music Teacher’s National Association award for composition this Fall. He has been a piano student of esteemed local music teacher Emily Parker for the past three years. A number of community members are encouraging Dustin to go further with his music career. Web site: http://www.arcadiavalleychristmas.com/.
Ashland: Special dance from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at the SBC Senior Center, 406 Douglas Drive. Beginners and experienced dancers of all ages welcome. We dance mostly contras and squares, with waltzes or other couple dances at the break. No costumes needed, but do please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the wooden dance floor. Contra dancing can be vigorous exercise. Wear light-weight, comfortable clothes. Admission $7.00 ($4.00 for ages 16-25; free for children 15 and under). Beginners and experienced dancers of all ages. Non-smoking, non-alcoholic event. Good exercise! Fun for the whole family. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Ashland - Legion Hall: Dance at the Legion Hall, 123 East Broadway. A family friendly event - no alcohol/smoking permitted. Bring a friend and a snack to share (not required, though). We dance mostly contras and squares, with waltzes or other couple dances at the break. No costumes needed, but do please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the wooden dance floor. Contra dancing can be vigorous exercise. Wear light-weight, comfortable clothes. Bring a friend and a snack to share (not required, though). Admission: Donations of $3/person ($10 max/family) gratefully accepted to help defray costs. 6:30pm-9:30pm. Good exercise! Fun for the whole family. Questions? Contact Krishna, 573-67-2110. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Auxvasse - Squares: Square Dance at Terra Bella Farm. From 2pm-3pm there will be an old-time jam and farm tours. From 3pm-5pm there will be a Square Dance. A potluck will follow the dance around 5pm with brats and chips provided. Bring a side dish to share! Event is free. Directions: take I-70 E to Hatton exit (#144). Go left, North, 4 miles. Farm is on the left after a trailer park and over a small bridge. Note a white barn close to the road. Open to all- come and enjoy this afternoon dance in the country! Web site: None.
Ava: Contra and English Dances at Ava Victory Academy from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. - Admission...A Donation is Suggested. No Partner Needed..Come Join the fun! Directions: From S'field, Take Hwy. 60 to Hwy. 5 south to Ava. At first traffic light (Hwy. 14), make a left. Ava Victory Academy is on the right, next to McDonald's. For Info, call Tom Berthold: 417-683-9065 Web site: None.
Boonville - Big Muddy: Music festival with concerts and workshops and a dance on Saturday night held in the first half of April at the Thespian Hall, Main & Vine. Web site: http://bigmuddy.org.
Boonville - Sam Griffin Fundraiser: Event on benefit of Sam Griffin, who suffered a stroke in late February 2017 and is home now and regaining strength. Some of his close friends have put this fundraising event together to help with his recovery. The fundraiser will be at Turner Hall, 518 Vine St, Boonville, Missouri 65233, from 6pm to 11pm and include a soup and salad potluck with desserts, a musical evening and a contra dance with a silent auction. More details on the web site. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1753262904985269/.
Branson - Fiddle Festival: Three-day music festival in August. Competitions. Unknown whether 2015 will include dancing, etc. Web site: http://www.grandcountry.com/fiddlefest.
Cape Girardeau: Dances (Traditional Old Time Contra and Square Dancing) are held at the Christ Episcopal Church, 101 North Fountain Street on various Saturday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:30pm with a free beginners' lesson from 6:45pm to 7:00pm. Some evenings, there is a potluck before the dance and/or other activities during the evening. All dances taught, no partner necessary. Requested Donation: $5.00; $1.00 for students. sCome in character and get $1 off admission (see web site for details). If you have questions, contact John or Kathy Coffman at (573) 334-4706, Judy Bradley at (573) 334-5289 or John Boyd at (573) 335-7315. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org/capegirardeau.html or http://sites.google.com/site/capecontradance/home.
Cape Girardeau - ChanceDance Weekend: This weekend is held in late February at the American Legion Hall, 2731 Thomas Drive and includes contras, blues and swing along with open calling. Some evenings, there is a potluck before the dance and/or other activities during the evening. All dances taught, no partner necessary. If you have questions, Contact John or Kathy Coffman at (573) 334-4706 or johndcoffman@yahoo.com. Web site: http://chance-dance.angelfire.com/.
Cape Girardeau - Southeast Missouri State University: Dance at the University Center Ballroom from 6:45pm to 9:30pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/333762096727657/.
Cape Girardeau - Waltz: We are going to start having monthly waltz parties! Come and support the SEMO Contra Dance Club. This goes from 3-5PM. Location: SEMO North Rec Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Web site: None.
Cape Girardeau - Church of the Latter-Day Saints: Dance at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1048 W Cape Rock Dr, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 at 10am. We would like for you to help us introduce the people at The Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints in Cape Girardeau to Contra Dancing. In the past we've had mainly families participate in the dancing and expect the same this year, so the more help we can have the better! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1400086613537949/.
Columbia: Dances are on the First, Third, and Fifth Fridays from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Ballroom Academy, 3906 Peachtree Dr., Suite E, Columbia, MO. ***Important note*** The BAC requests that everyone wear soft-soled or leather soled shoes to preserve the floor–no spike heels or cowboy boots, please. Please carry-in appropriate dance shoes as needed. Beginners and experienced dancers of all ages welcome. If you are new to contra dancing, come to the beginners' workshop at 7:00 p.m. for an introduction to the basic figures. Also check out these articles on contra dancing. We dance mostly contras and squares, with waltzes or other couple dances at the break. No costumes needed, but do please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the wooden dance floor. Contra dancing can be vigorous exercise. Wear light-weight, comfortable clothes. General admission is $8. For ages 16-25 or with student ID, admission is $5. And as always, children 15 and under will be admitted at no charge. Beginners and experienced dancers of all ages. Non-smoking, non-alcoholic event. Good exercise! Fun for the whole family. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Spring Breakdown: Dance weekend in March at the beautiful Kimball ballroom in Lela Raney Woods hall on Stephens College campus, near downtown Columbia, Missouri. The Kimball Ballroom has been renovated to its original 1930s splendor with fabulous hardwood floors and the original chandeliers. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Family Dances: Join the Mid-Missouri Traditional Dancers and Lee Elementary School, 1208 Locust Street. in Columbia, Missouri, at monthly family dances for children, parents, and grandparents. Dances are fromm 2:00pm to 3:30pm with an admission charge of $5 per family. A caller will lead families through easy-to-learn traditional dances like the ones their great-grandparents did back on the farm in the old barn. Fun for all ages. Local musicians provided live music for these toe-tapping events. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Squares: At various locations. A typical evening begins with an old-time jam at 6:00 p.m. and dance at 7:00 p.m. Open calling. Bring your own beverage and a snack to share. Depending on location, musicians may want to bring their own chair. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Squares - Bradford Farm: Benefit dance for forestry graduate school, from 7:00pm-10:00pm at the Bradford Farm. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org/.
Columbia - Squares - Clovers Natural Market: Square dances at Clover's Natural Market on Broadway (2100 Chapel Plaza Court, 2012 East Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203). The time will be 7.30-10pm. The dance is free. Web site: None.
Columbia - Callers' Workshop: If you've ever considered calling a dance, have been calling for years, or perhaps are just curious how callers think, this class will meet your needs. The class will offer good grounding in the basics of dance calling, fine points about how to improve your skill, and plenty of "flight time" to practice in a supportive setting. 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 16 Hitt St. (Pre-registration Required). Held as part Spring Breakdown but with separate cost and registration. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Callers' Workshop: Callers and budding callers: As part of Spring Breakdown dance weekend in Columbia, there will be a Caller's Workshop from 10:00 am - 3 pm. Preregistration is required for the workshop and the cost is $30 ($20 for students and ages 16-25). The cost for this is not included in the weekend price. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Boone County Fair: As part of the Boone County Fair this year, there will be a Barn Dance in the Multipurpose Building on the Fairgrounds and it is air-conditioned. Dance starts at 7:00pm. Web site: http://www.theboonecountyfair.com/.
Columbia - Artrageous Saturday - Demonstration: Beginning promptly at noon, Mid-Missouri Traditional Dancers will have the opportunity to share the joy of contra dancing (mistakes and all!) with the unsuspecting public during Artrageous Weekend (an extension of Artrageous Friday). This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce new people to the fun and inclusive nature of contra dancing and the callers, musicians and good weather are all lined up, so all we need now is YOU! A minimum of 16 dancers (all skill levels welcome) are needed for about an hour or so of dancing on the patio in front of The Bridge (1020 East Walnut Street - across from PS Gallery). After the initial "demo" dance, we'll invite spectators to join us and give it a try for each of the subsequent dances. It is sure to be a lot of fun and we hope you can join us! To sign-up or ask questions, call Betsy at 573-864-3883 or email her at brcollins@gmail.com - Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org/ or http://www.artrageousfridays.com/.
Columbia - Callers' Party: Sessions to help new callers work through the intricacies of calling dances. Meet at Debbie and Odell Newkirk's house at 7:00 pm and dance til about 10:00. Live music, just like a real dance. Open to all current and future dancers and callers, regardless of experience or lack thereof. Feel free to bring a snack or beverage. Water provided. We look forward to seeing you there. Directions to Newkirks', 6220 D. Ridgewood: Take Providence Road south. At Old Plank Rd. (Rock Bridge Elementary School) Providence turns into Rt. K. Continue on Rt. K about 1.7 miles to Old Village Road. Old Village Road will take a turn to the right and turn into Ridgewood. They live in the second house on the right after the road changes to Ridgewood. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Squares - Cafe Berlin: Dance from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Location: 220 N. 10th St., Columbia, MO 65201. Donations will be accepted to help T-Claw (the caller) to his next destination, Denver Colorado. Come alone or bring a partner, its been a while since we danced together! Call Sam Pounders at 314 359 9824 or email for questions! Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Flash Dance: Dances at various locations and times. Usually includes waltzes or contras or both. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Columbia - Harvest Hootenanny (Squares): Come join us for a square dance during the annual Harvest Hootenanny fundraiser with dinner, music, and urban agricultural fun. The event will raise money for the Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture (CCUA), and will be located northeast of Columbia College at 1209 Smith St. CCUA is a non-profit serving Columbia with educational and urban agriculture support services such as gardening for low-income residents. Donate what you can and join us for dinner from 3-8pm and traditional dancing from 3-5pm. See you there! Web site: http://www.columbiaurbanag.org/donate/harvest-hootenanny/.
Columbia - Eve Fest (New Year's Eve): A dance may be one of the events during the evening. Web site: http://columbiaevefest.com/.
Columbia - Cooper's Landing: Dance at Cooper's Landing, located at the Port of Nashville, 11505 Smith Hatchery Road Columbia, MO 65203 from 7pm to 9pm. Web site: http://www.cooperslanding.net.
Columbia - Squares - Clovers Natural Market: Another square dance opportunity! Clovers Natural Market is celebrating 49 years in Columbia (Congratulations!). They are having an anniversary party at the East Broadway location (2012 E. Broadway, across from Stephens Park). The festivities start at 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00-6:00 there will be a square dance. All the dances will be taught and called. No experience necessary and no partner needed. Web site: http://cloversnaturalmarket.com.
Columbia - Heritage Festival: Weekend event at Historic Nifong Park, 3700 Ponderosa St., Columbia, MO with traditional tradesmen and artisans demonstrating "lost arts", Entertainment on three stages, cowboys with their chuckwagons, children's activities, storytelling, tours, plus a dance. Web site: https://www.como.gov/ParksandRec/Activities_and_Programs/heritage-festival.php.
Columbia - Busker's Last Waltz: Event as part of the True/False Festival. Starts at 9:30PM at Jesse Auditorium. Swing your partner round and round in the atrium of Jesse Hall following the Closing Night screening of Won’t You Be My Neighbor? The Mid-Missouri Traditional Dancers will promenade you down the line as beer—courtesy of our friends at Logboat, Public House, and Rock Bridge—and music flow, keeping the spirit of dance & T/F alive before it slumbers for another year. Live music will be provided by buskers; dancing shoes encouraged! No ticket required; open to all passholders. Web site: https://truefalse.org.
Creve Coeur - Calling Party: Weekly calling party series at 433 Marford Drive starting at 7pm. Callers, new callers, dancers and new dancers are invited to show up on a Wednesday evening and dance at Martha and Bob's house. Bring a snack to share if you can, or just come and join the dancing. Free. Read more at Web site http://www.childgrove.org/callers-local-and-regional/calling-parties.htm.
El Dorado Springs: Dance at the El Dorado Youth Center, Olive St, El Dorado Springs, Missouri 64744 with doors opening at 6:30pm and dances starting at 7:00pm and sponsored by the El Dorado Christian Contradance Organization. Each dance will be taught. New dancers welcome. Please bring a finger food to share. Water will be provided. Location: This dance will be at the El Dorado Springs Youth Center, 508 North Main Street. Directions: from 32 and 54: go West on 54 hwy 1/2mi. Turn right(north) onto Main St go 1.3mi. The building will be on your left. It looks like an old school (because it is ;) ). Suggested donation is $5 per person and a maximum of $20 per family. Hope to see you there! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/501757996557244/ .
Fayette - Blue Bell Farm: Dance at Blue Bell Farm, 3030 Highway 240, Fayette, Missouri 65248 from 6pm to 10pm. $20 ticket price includes welcome cocktail, dance instruction and contra dance. Valentine's themed food, beer, wine and cocktails will be available for purchase in the bar. Food and drinks will be available for purchase starting at 6pm. Dance will take place from 7-10pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/bluebellfarmmo/.
Hallsville - Squares: Second Sunday of each month at the new location of the dance (at least through May of 2019) at the Hallsville Intermediate School Commons, on Hwy 124 west of Route B. 4 p.m.: Instrumental jam sessions for any interested musicians; square dance instruction will be available; 6 p.m.: Potluck supper; 7:00pm-10:00pm (or until we've had enough): Dance. Very informal; All ages welcome; Square dance instruction available, live music. No admission charge planned at this time, but donations will be accepted to help cover costs. Carry-in food welcome for the potluck supper. No smoking in the building. No alcohol allowed. Questions: Contact John White (via the About page). http://mofiddledance.org/.
Harrisonville: Dances at the Cedar Ridge Evangelical Church 27900 State Highway 7 Harrisonville, MO 64701 from 6:30pm - 9:30pm. Fun for the entire family, singles or groups! Open to the public....if you are human, you can come. Our family-friendly dances are very lively, with a variety of fast, medium, and slow dances interspersed, including reels, circle dances, line dances, and a waltz or two. Fun for ALL ages: children, teenagers, adults & the older generation are all seen on the dance floor! Admission: Absolutely **FREE**, but tips are welcome. Wear informal comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes! Or, dress-up as you like! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Harrisonville-Civil-War-Contra-Dancing/215575245128301.
Hermann: Dance at the Harvest Table, 122 E. 4th St. in downtown Hermann. Dancing at 7:00. Admission is $10 for the dance. Make an evening of it and come by to enjoy a meal and a drink before hand (food and drinks are an additional cost). Web site: https://www.facebook.com/HarvestTableHermann/.
Ironton - Arcadia Valley Music Festival - Fall: Weekend music festival with other events (parade, etc.). Some dancing. Held in mid-October. Web site: http://www.mountainmusicfestival.net.
Ironton - Arcadia Valley Music Festival - Spring: Weekend music festival with other events (parade, etc.). Some dancing. Held in mid-May. Web site: http://www.mountainmusicfestival.net.
Jefferson City - Snow Ball: Traditional English, Contra and American dances at Selinger Centre, 212 Broadway, Jefferson City, MO, across from the Capitol, next to St Peter's Church. Time: 2-5 pm. Donation: $4 per person or $12 per family. Please bring a snack to share. All ages welcome, no prior experience necessary. Period attire welcome. For more details, contact: jubalmusic@ktis.net - Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Jefferson City - Art Walk: Come listen and dance to music at the Jefferson City Art Stroll from 6-9 pm. Location for this part of the Art Walk is on Madison Street in front of Gumbo Bottoms Ale House at 221 1/2 Madison. High and Madison Streets will be blocked but you can park for free in the parking garage next to Gumbo Bottoms and across from Madison's Restaurant by entering from Capitol Avenue. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Jefferson City - Jefferson Landing: Traditional dancing to Missouri old-time fiddling! You will get to experience two Missouri fiddling traditions—Southwest Ozark and Little Dixie styles. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. We will be dancing traditional old-time barn dances on the lawn. Suitable for all ages and no experience required. This free event will be held from 11 am - 1 pm on the the front lawn at the Lohman Building at Jefferson Landing State Historic Site, 100 Jefferson Street, Jefferson City. The event is being sponsored by the Missouri State Parks and the Missouri Folk Arts Program and is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Missouri Arts Council and the Museum of Art and Archaeology at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Jefferson City - Jefferson Landing - Backyard Concert: Concert/dance from 7 PM - 8 PM at the Jefferson Landing State Historic Site, 100 Jefferson St, Jefferson City, Missouri 65101 from 7pm to 8pm. Grab your family, lawn chairs and a picnic supper and join us on the Lohman Building lawn. No tickets or reservations required. Web site: https://mostateparks.com/park/missouri-state-museum.
Jefferson City - Spring Breakdown: Dance weekend in March at the Capital City Ritz in Jefferson City. Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org.
Jefferson City - Capital Ritz: Free dance at the Capital Ritz Banquet and Dance Center 2716 Plaza Dr, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109 from 7pm to 10pm. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun. You don't need to know how to contra dance and don't need to bring a partner. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/2561324190567419/.
Jefferson City - Introduction to Contra Dancing: Whether you're brand new or have attended some of the other workshops you are welcome! We'll review what we've learned and add new fun dances. Experienced dancers are also welcome. Come alone or bring a friend! No dance experience is needed. All ages welcome. Suggested donation $10. Location: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in JC at 1021 Northeast Dr, Jefferson City, MO 65109. Time: 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/midmotraditionaldancers/.
Kansas City: CrossCurrents Barn Dance sponsors a dance on the 4th Saturday of the month at St. Paul Episcopal Day School, 4041 Main, Kansas City, Mo. Beginner class: 7:00 PM; Dance: 7:30 - 10:30 PM. Dance FREE! Bring 2 beginners by 7:00 (in time for the lesson) and your admission is FREE! Admission - $8 - includes lesson! All dances are taught and called. Non-smoking, alcohol-free event. For information, contact kcbarndance@gmail.com, Linda - 785-841-3121, Brenda 816-379-5856. Web site: http://www.kcbarndance.org.
Kansas City - National Square Dance Convention: Annual Convention with a little contra dancing. Register in advance for a discount. There may or may not be a separate contra dance track with live music and special registration. Web site: http://67nsdc.com/.
Kansas City - Energizer Contra Dance: Special dance before the National Square Dance Convention from 7:00-9:30 pm at Luther Hall at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1700 Westport Road, Kansas City, Missouri. Dance sponsored by CONTRALAB. Will have Contra callers from around the US and Canada. All Contra dancers are invited. Suggested donation at the door $10 per person. Contacts: Maureen - 515.508.9494 or Duane - 218.849.9317 - Web site: http://67nsdc.com/.
Kirkwood - Meet Me in St. Louis: Dance weekend at the Kirkwood Community Center in late May. Register in advance. http://www.childgrove.org/index.php/meetmeinstlouis.
Lebanon: Dances at the Oasis Worship Center gym, 1 mile east of Hwy 5 on Hwy 32, on the right just past the S curves from 7pm to 10 pm. Contra dancing refers to several partnered folk dance styles in which couples dance in two facing lines as in the Virginia Reel or in circles or squares. This is a FREE family activity with dances especially for the junior dancers (10 and under) and senior dancers (11 and up) with tables set up for those just wishing to visit. Parents, it's a great place to get to know other homeschool parents in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere while either you and/or your children enjoy a vintage dance. No need to worry if you've never done contra as each dance is taught before it's done. If you know your right hand from your left, you can quickly learn these dances! George Washington's favorite dance was the Virginia Reel! Please bring a finger food to share. Drinks are provided. For more information PM Dan or Margie White. This event is sponsored by Homeschool Helpers. We look forward to seeing you there! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Homeschool-Helpers/189549841817.
Lees Summit: Dance from 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM at Paradise Park, 1021 NE Colbern Rd, Lees Summit, Missouri 64086. Come join us for a contra/barn dance! The dance will be held upstairs in rooms three and four. This is a FREE event but donations for our caller will be accepted. We encourage you to buy food at the paradise park cafe as a way to show appreciation to them for giving us the room for the night! Feel free to invite friends and family! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/harrisonvilleCWcontradancing/permalink/1857158784323131/.
Maplewood: Occasional dances sponsored by the Folk School of St. Louis and held at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Boulevard from 7:30 - 10:30 p.m. Join us for a rousing, good old-fashioned barn dance! No dancing experience necessary. Great fun for all ages. Refreshments available next door at the Maya Cafe. $10 admission. All proceeds benefit the Folk School. Web site: http://folk-school.com/newfolkschool/default.php.
Maplewood - Gender-Free: Dances at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd - Maplewood, MO 63143 from 7pm to 9pm with a pre-dance lesson at 6:45pm. Everyone is invited to dance whatever role they like, with whomever they want. Come on in and have a blast! $10. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Maryville - Barn Dance: The Maryville Community Barn Dance will have a special series of dances. Dances will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Maryville (211 S. Main St.), in the basement, from 7:00 to 9:00. Bring a friend or two! Enter via the East door then loop left to find the indoor stairwell, or enter the South door at the bottom of the outdoor stairwell. Plenty of parking. There will be a container for free-will donations to the church, which is generously letting the groups use the space (recommend $1 or $2), but otherwise there's no cost. Web site: http://www.jeromegrisanti.com/contra_in_maryville.htm or https://www.facebook.com/MaryvilleContraDance.
McKittrick: Enjoy some stomping good fun Contra Dancing at the historic, beautifully renovated, air conditioned McKittrick Farmers Mercantile dance hall, 500 Washington in downtown McKittrick, MO. All dances start at 7:00 pm, bring your own beverages and pot-luck snacks, $8/adults $5/students and seniors. Kids under 15 free. For more information call 314-698-9152. Everyone is welcome! Web site: http://mmtdcolumbia.org or http://www.themerck.com/events.html.
Mountain Grove: Dance at 6:30pm at 107 Westside Sq, Mountain Grove, MO 65711-1647, United States. No experience or partner required. Come alone or even better bring ALL of your friends! Finger food potluck. Water provided, Bring you water bottles and reusable cups. Join us by 6:15 to get signed in and ready to learn the basics at 6:30 p.m. Dance starts at 7:00 and goes through 10:00. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/2460858194197791/.
Neosho: Dances on various Saturdays from 7 pm to 10 pm at Crowder College in the Longwell Museum of the Elsie Plaster Bldg. Dances are held on the 4th Saturday of each month so mark your calendars! $5 donations requested to cover expenses. No prior experience necessary. Web site: http://webbcityfarmersmarket.blogspot.com.
Owensville - Squares - White Mule Winery: Square dance at 7pm at the White Mule Winery, Ownesville, MO. There's no entry fee and the winery will have food and drinks for sale during the event. http://www.whitemulewinery.com.
Ozark - Solefest: Dance weekend sponsored by Traditional Dance and Music Society of the Ozarks and held in October at the Ozark Upper Elementary School, 3600 N State. Highway NN, Ozark, MO 65721. Halloween Party Dance weekend with costumes welcome. Includes contras, squares, waltzes, Web site: http://www.springfieldcontra.org/.
Patterson: Dance at the Patterson Community Center, Patterson, Missouri 63956 from 7pm to 10pm. Beginners welcome. No experience or partner required. Enjoy a fun, energetic style of dance similar to square dancing, only you get to dance with everyone up and down the line. All dances are taught and called as you dance them. Admission: $7 per person. For any question call Lucinda @ 573-979-0366 or Jenny @ 573-718-8969. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/165256476374/.
Pineville: Dance at the Pineville Community Center, 602 Jesse James Rd in Pineville, MO. (about a block off the square). Adults $5, students $3. 7:30pm-10:30pm. Beginners' session at 7pm. Sponsored by the McDonald County Back to Basics Community Group. Refreshments available furnished by McDonald County Youth Wrestling. Web site: None.
Pineville - Ponderosa Trails Campground: Dance at the Campground, 1305 Ponderosa Rd, Pineville, MO. Family friendly, no alcohol, outdoors - weather permitting. Adults $5; students $3. Refreshments available. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/300321583400066/.
Raymore: From Jim Thaxter - I would like to invite all of my dancing friends to a free dance from 2:00-4:00 pm at Foxwood Springs Retirement Community in Raymore, MO. It's a little ways south of Kansas City down Highway 71. Light refreshments will be served. This will be a dance commemorating my Mother Ruth Thaxter's 98th birthday, along with a celebration that her hospice team is planning called "Gift of a Day." This is a special day for the patients to do something that is a meaningful memory to their life. Mom came to many KC contra dances with me over the last few years and greatly enjoyed the dancers and music. She still likes to tap her fingers to the music. I hope you're able to come by on Sunday afternoon and join my brother and sisters and me in making Mom's birthday a memorable one. Directions: South on Highway 71 to Raymore. Take Highway 58 left (east) about 1 mile and look for Foxwood Springs on the left (north). Go to the main building and look for signs or ask for directions to Clarebridge. Web site: None.
Reeds Spring - Squares: Consider attending square dances on the third Fridays at 7 o’clock at the Rock House, 41 High Street in Reeds Spring, MO. for square dances with a live caller. Web site: http://www.springfieldcontra.org.
or maybe https://www.rockhousecenterforthearts.org/.Rolla - FUNdraiser for the Ishaya Foundation At the Phelps County Fair Grounds, 12860 S US Highway 63, Rolla, MO 65453 from 6pm to 11pm. 6pm - Food, fun, enter raffles; 7:00 pm - Contra Dance lesson; 7:30 pm - Dance begins and raffle, food and Family Fun; 11pm - Grand Prize Drawing Visit The Ishaya Foundation on face book (www.facebook.com/TheIshayaFoundation) to pre-purchase door and raffle tickets. Contact: Arya Ishaya 573-261-9393 or arya@theishayafoundation.org - Web site: http://theishayafoundation.org.
Rutledge - Contra Culture Weekend: Dance weekend with Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage, Sandhill Farm and Red Earth Farms to create a contra dance weekend. As intentional communities focused on sustainable living, we believe that an important part of a sustainable human culture is to have fun - and dance is a big part of that! Web site: http://dancerabbitdance.com/contra-culture/.
Shawnee: Crazy Little Contra Advanced Dance. Location: Good Shepherd Catholic Church Community Center, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, Kansas. Time: 7:30pm-10:30pm. Web site: http://www.crosscurrentsculture.org/Barn%20Dance/Barn%20Dance.htm.
Springfield: Dances are held at Boys and Girls Club, Henderson Unit, at Grant Beach Park, 835 W Calhoun St, Springfield, MO. Join us by 6:55 to get signed in and ready for our pre-dance Workshop at 7:00 to learn the basics. Dance starts at 7:30 and ends at 10:30 Admission: Adults $7, Youth $5, Members $5. Everyone is welcome: singles, couples, young and old. If you enjoy music and are enthusiastic, you can be a contra dancer. Wear comfortable clothes (layers are good-you can get very warm) and soft-soled shoes. For more information call 417-862-8681, or email springfieldcontra@yahoo.com - Web site: http://www.springfieldcontra.org/.
Springfield - Ozarks Celebration Festival: is an entertaining and educational look at the region's culture and heritage. The festival includes a range of traditional artists and craftspeople with three entertainment stages featuring music (which will include traditional, bluegrass, and gospel music), storytelling, traditional dance (including square, jig, contra and clogging), films, historical characters, exhibits, and much more. The festival is held on the campus of Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. Look for the festivities in front of Carrington Hall. Web site: http://ocf.missouristate.edu.
Springfield - Calling Workshop: The Traditional Dance and Music Society of the Ozarks is hosting a one day contra calling workshop, specifically designed for young people who would like to learn how to call for contra dancers. The workshop is for beginners, so you do not have to know anything about calling. Contra dance experience is helpful, but not required. The workshop will feature a professional caller to teach the workshop and a live string band to provide music. The workshop will be followed by an evening contra dance where the new callers will be given a chance to call for a live dance. the workshop will be held at the Franciscan Villa, 620 W Scott from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. Cost: TBA per student (includes admission to the evening contra dance). For additional details: Lydia Lapierre (417) 529-4526 or ivyandroses@juno.com. Web site: http://www.springfieldcontra.org/.
Springfield - Doling Park: Please join in for an outdoor Square and Contra Dance in the Museum Courtyard at Doling Park, 301 E Talmage, Springfield, MO. Dance is from 1pm to 3pm. The dances will be simple squares and contras that will be taught so all dancers are invited no matter what level of square or contra dance experience. Dancing on the grass in the museum courtyard. Bring snacks...Coffee and Tea Kitty. This is an outdoor event, so bring your lawn chairs. Inclement weather, activity will be held inside Northview Center, Doling Park. Call 837-5808 for updates on this event. Sponsored by Springfield-Green County Parks and Recreations. Web site: http://www.parkboard.org.
Springfield - Southwest Home Education Ministry - Convention: English/Contra Dance as part of the SHEM Convention and Teen Convention. Dance is from 7:00pm - 10:00pm at the Springfield Expo Center - Room C. This is for dancers of all ages and abilities. Our caller will teach the dances as we go. Dress is modest. Cost is $3/person with a max of $12/family. There is no cost for convention attendees with paid admission. Snacks and drinks are not allowed at this event. Water will be provided. Web site: http://shemonline.org/.
Springfield - Southwest Home Education Ministry - Doling Center: Dance at the Doling Family Center, 301 E. Talmage, Springfield, MO 65803 from 7pm to 10pm. This is for dancers of all ages and abilities. Our caller will teach the dances as we go. Dress is modest. Cost is $3/person with a max of $12/family. Please bring a snack and a drink to share. Web site: http://shemonline.org/.
Springfield - Millsap Farm: Dance at the Millsap Farm, 6593 N Emu Ln, Springfield, Missouri 65803 starting at 7pm You can expect large circle or line dances and a a few more traditional contra dances toward the end. We will be dancing outside on the front lawn so wear comfy shoes and clothes. We will dance from 7 to 9. Feel free to come at 6:45 and stay to 10. $3 each and a family max of $15. So bring along a dessert to share, we will have plenty of water and some Lemonade, see you here! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/405326869652769/.
St. Charles - Introduction to Contra Dancing, Session 1: Workshop from 2 PM – 3 PM at the Kisker Road Branch Library, 1000 Kisker Road, St. Charles, Missouri 63304. Come learn the basic steps and practice a few dances. No partner or experience needed. If you can walk, you can dance! The event is free, but registration is required here: https://tinyurl.com/ybzy7znj - Call or text John at 636-336-2521 with any questions. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/331350210797182/.
St. Charles - Introduction to Contra Dancing, Session 2: Workshop from 2 PM – 3 PM at the McClay Branch Library, 2760 McClay Road, St. Charles, Missouri 63303. Come learn the basic steps and practice a few dances. No partner or experience needed. If you can walk, you can dance! The event is free, but registration is required here: https://tinyurl.com/yazlbqgr - Call or text John at 636-336-2521 with any questions. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/224443495101626/.
St. Charles - Introduction to Contra Dancing, Session 2: Workshop from 7 PM – 8 PM at the Spencer Road Branch Library, 427 Spencer Road, Saint Peters, Missouri 63376. Come learn the basic steps and practice a few dances. No partner or experience needed. If you can walk, you can dance! The event is free, but registration is required here: https://tinyurl.com/yazlbqgr - Call or text John at 636-336-2521 with any questions. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1957605361214220/.
St. Louis - Grand Oak Hill Community Center - Squares: Location: Grand Oak Hill Community Center, 4168 Juniata. Sponsored by the Folk School of St Louis. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
St. Louis - Squares: The Folk School hosts monthly square dances at The Stage, KDHX in Grand Center, 3524 Washington Ave, and provides the perfect space for the Square Dance Revolution! No partner necessary - No experience necessary. $5 - Live Music. 7:30pm-10:00pm. Web site: http://folkschoolstl.org/pages/square-dances.
St. Louis - Folk and Roots Festival: Weekend music event with a little dancing. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/StlFolkandRootsFestival.
St. Louis - Shining Rivers Waldorf School Benefit: Dance at the Webster Groves Masonic Temple, 12 East Lockwood Avenue, Saint Louis, Missouri. Event is from 7pm to 11pm. Live music, contra dancing and silent auction. Web site: http://www.shiningrivers.org/.
St. Louis - Squares - St. Louis Art Museum: A square dance is one of the evening's activities at the St. Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park, St. Louis, MO. Part of the SLAM Underground series. Web site: http://www.slam.org/.
St. Louis - Squares - FOAM Coffee and Beer: "Pop-up" square dance at FOAM Coffee and Beer, 3359 S Jefferson Ave, St Louis MO 63118, from 2 to 5pm. It is an all ages event. Web site: https://foamvenue.com/.
St. Louis - Link Auditorium: Everyone is welcome and encouraged to dance both roles. Asking for an $8 donation; no one turned away. We will start with a lesson at 6:30; the dance begins at 7:00. Location: Link Auditorium, 4504 Westminster Place, St. Louis 63108 from 6:30pm to 10:00pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/821575321561817/.
Troy - Kimmswick Dance Weekend: The Childgrove Country Dancers sponsor the annual Kimmswick Dance Weekend in the spring (usually on or near Memorial Day Weekend in May) at Cuivre River State Park. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Warrensburg - Breaking Up Christmas: Dance at the Culp Building, behind the Johnson County Historical Society at 302 N. Main St. from 2pm to 4pm. The dance is free and there will be a box to collect soup for the annual Souper Bowl soup drive for the Food Center. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/jocomohistory/.
Webb City - Arts in the Park: One-day event feautring Music, Dance, Drama, the Visual Arts, workshops for kids & adults - under the market pavilions. Sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Department of Webb City, the Friends of the Webb City Parks, and the Webb City Farmers Market. Events goes from 9am-7pm. Web site: http://www.webbcityfarmersmarket.blogspot.com/.
Webb City: Dance from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at The Clubhouse, 115 N. Madison. Web site: None.
Webster Groves - 1st Saturday: The Childgrove Country Dancers sponsor these dances, generally part of the Callers' Choice series. A Callers Choice Dance is a Contra Dance with multiple callers. You often get to be the first to dance the best of the new dances written by our choreographer friend, and occasionally, there's a special treat when guest callers from other dance groups are in town. The dances are often the ones called at the Calling Parties: Contra Dances, Square Dances and Dances in Unusual Formations. Free basics workshop at 6:30pm. Dance runs from 7pm-10pm. Regular admission rate is $8. The Student rate is $4, and kids under 10 get in free. Dance at the Monday Club, 37 S. Maple Avenue, Webster Groves, MO. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - 3rd Saturday: The Childgrove Country Dancers sponsor dances at the Monday Club, 37 S. Maple, Webster Groves. Free workshop at 6:30pm. Dance runs from 7-10pm. Regular admission rate is $8. The Student rate is $4, and kids under 10 get in free. Always check the schedule to be sure! Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - Sundays: The Childgrove Country Dancers generally (check web site for official schedule and exceptions) have contra dances on the 1st, 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month. Check the schedule for the dates. Free workshop at 6:30pm, dance from 7-10pm. Regular admission rate is $8. The Student rate is $4, and kids under 10 get in free. dances at the Monday Club, 37 S. Maple, Webster Groves. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - Waltz: The Childgrove Country Dancers sponsor an evening of waltzes and other social dances in a beautiful setting once a month. Each evening consists of a one-hour workshop followed by two hours of dancing to live music. About 2/3 of the dances are waltzes, with the others being a mix of polka, tango, schottisch, hambo or ragtime. For $10, you can enjoy a workshop, two hours of live music, and refreshments. No partner or experience is necessary. Please wear or bring soft soled shoes. The dances are held at the Monday Club, 37 S. Maple, in Webster Groves. Workshop from 6pm to 6:50pm; dance from 7pm to 9pm with live music. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - Flash Dance: These are spontaneous gatherings that bring people together on short notice for a brief period of time . Well, here's your chance to join dancers and musicians for a "flash dance" - an opportunity to waltz or contra in a public place. Dates, times and locations (not just in Webster Groves) to be announced. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - Special: The Childgrove Country Dancers host a special dance on a special night. Check the schedule for the dates. Free workshop at 6:30pm, dance from 7-10pm. Check for sites and admission charges on web site. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - New Year's Eve: The Childgrove Country Dancers host a New Year's Eve dance from 9:00pm to 1:00am. Admission: $10. Check for sites on web site. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Webster Groves - Family: Dance at The Monday Club, 37 South Maple, Webster Groves, from 3pm to 4:30pm. Admission: Children, $3 each; Adults accompanied by children, $5 each; Families - maximum $16; Unaccompanied Adults: $7 (includes the Contra Dance at 7pm that night). We call simple, fun dances anyone can do to live music. All of the dances are designed so that children who are uncomfortable dancing with people they don't know yet can stay with the person they chose to dance with - a parent, grandparent or friend. Recommended for children 6 years old and up. Dress comfortably. Wear shoes that fit and will not slip off the heel. Food is not permitted in the dance hall, but it is recommended to bring a water bottle. Those wanting to experience more contra dancing may stay for the regular weekly dance going from 7pm to 10pm. Web site: http://www.childgrove.org.
Wentzville: The Wentzville 5th Saturday Community Danc are held at the Wentzville Community Club, 500 W Main St, Wentzville, Missouri 63385 from 6:30pm to 9:00pm. This is a family event for ages 8 and up. No partner needed. Practice for first-timers at 6:30 PM. Dance from 7-9 PM with live music. $7 for adults, $3 for children, free under age 8. Contact John Notgrass at 636-336-2521 with any questions. Sponsored by the Crossroads Arts Council and Wentzville Community Club. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WentzvilleDance/.
Wentzville - Introduction to Contra Dancing: Workshop from 7 PM – 8 PM at the Corporate Parkway Branch Library, 1200 Corporate Pkwy, Wentzville, MO 63385. Come learn the basic steps and practice a few dances. No partner or experience needed. If you can walk, you can dance! The event is free, but registration is required here: https://tinyurl.com/ybdywnqn - Call or text John at 636-336-2521 with any questions. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/587966471654195/.
West Plains - Old Time Music Ozark Heritage Festival: Weekend music and folk arts festival in June including square dancing. Web site: http://www.oldtimemusic.org/.
West Plains - Ozark Area Community Congress: A contra dance is one of the activities at this weekend bioregional conference at Hammond Mill Camp. Web site: http://ozarkareacommunitycongress.org/.
West Plains - Contra Dance Club: Everyone is welcome to these community events. Ages 10+ recommended. The evening begins with easy dances for newcomers, and all dances are taught. You don't need experience or a partner, bring yourself and a snack to share. Water will be provided. Learn our basics at 6:30, the dance will start at 7:00. Location: Masonic Lodge, 100 S. Hill, West Plains, MO. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/381705156004501.
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.