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 in New Hampshire including dance camps and weekends along with other events in New Hampshire 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.
Note: The State of New Hampshire has produced a Live Free and Dance web site and pamphlet.
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.
Acworth - 250th Anniversary Contra Dance: At the Town Hall from 7:30pm to 11:00pm. For more information, call 603-863-1844. Web site: http://www.acworth250.net.
Amherst - LaBelle Winery: Contra dance at LaBelle Winery, 345 Route 101, Amherst, NH from 1pm to 3pm. All dances taught, family friendly, no partner needed. Adults $7, students $5, seniors $5, 12 and under $0. Web site: https://www.labellewineryevents.com.
Albany: Dances at Tin Mountain Conservation Center's hall at 1245 Bald Hill Road in Albany. There will be a potluck supper at 6:30 p.m., followed by the dance starting promptly at 7:30 p.m. and running through 9:30 p.m. Admission will remain at $7 for adults, $3 for children under 12, and $15 for families. All dances are taught. Dances will be scheduled third Saturdays of the month through next May. Call 603-447-2295 or 207 -625-3334 for more information. Web site: (possible) http://www.tinmountain.org/.
Albany - World Fellowship Center: A few dances a year at the Center, 368 Drake Hill Road. Dances begin at 7:30pm. Web site: http://www.worldfellowship.org.
Antrim: Quarterly series of dances at the Antrim Town Hall. Dances go from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. Cost is $5 per person, $10 per family. Food will be sold to help support the cost of the musicians. This quarterly dance series is intended for new and seasoned dancers. Families are welcome. For more information, contact the Recreation Department at 588-3121 or antrimrecreation@tds.net. Web site: None.
Barnstead - Oscar Foss Memorial Library: Contra dance as part of the end of summer block party at the Library, 111 S. Barnstead Road, Center Barnstead, NH 03225. Entire event goes from 11am to 2pm. Web site: http://www.oscarfoss.org.
Barrington - Natural Heritage and Agricultural Fair: Held in late August at the Warren Farm with a variety of events and activities. Web site: http://agfair.wordpress.com/.
Bath - 250th Anniversary: Weekend anniversary celebration including a barn dance on Saturday. Variety of activities throughout the weekend. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/BathNH250.
Bedford - Education Farm and Joppa Hill Benefit Dance: Get Down at the Hoe Down! Traditional Family Fun and Country Celebration In Support Of The Educational Farm at Joppa Hill from 3-5PM at the McKelvie Intermediate School, 108 Liberty Hill Road, Bedford, NH. Dancing! Music! Snacks! Kids’ Games! Bake Sale! Raffles! Dress: Country Casual. Tickets $10 per person or $25 per family. Web site: http://www.theeducationalfarm.org.
Boscawen: The Concord, NH contra dance series is now at Boscawen Town Hall, beneath Boscawen Congregational Church at 12 High St. (western junction of Routes 3 and 4). Overflow parking across the street at fire station. Dancing from 8:00pm to 11:00pm. Admission: $8 adults, $5 ages 15-25, free under age 15. Contact David Harris at 603-225-4917 or concordnhcontra@gmail.com - Web site: https://concordnhcontra.wordpress.com/.
Bridgewater - Old Home Day Dance: At the Old Town Hall at 8:00pm. For more information: Email: icalldance4u@gmail.com - Web site: http://www.bridgewater-nh.com/.
Bridgewater - Squares: At the Old Town Hall. The Bridgewater Historical Society will have a potluck supper at the old town at 5pm, with dancing to commence between 6:30pm and 7pm. Web site: None.
Bristol - Newfound Lake Region Association: The NLRA Contra Dance will be held at the Tapply Thompson Community Center in Bristol from 7-9 pm. This event is sponsored by the Newfound Lake Region Association as part of the Lake Week Celebration. There is no charge for the dance, but donations to pay for the caller and musicians will be accepted and greatly appreciated. Web site: http://www.newfoundlake.org.
Bristol - Town Hall: Dance at the Bristol OLd Town Hall, lesson at 7:30pm, dance at 8:00pm to 11:00pm. No partner required. Price: $5 per person, $10 per family. Children under 12 free. Contras, waltzes, squares and mixers. Snacks, water and lemonade. No alcohol. Information - terry_a_mills@hotmail.com - Web site: None.
Bristol - Historical Society: The Bristol Historical Society is sponsoring a dance at 7pm at the Old Bristol Town Hall. Admission is $7 Web site: None.
Campton - 250th Anniversary: Free dance at the Mountain Fare Inn on Old Waterville Road from 6pm to 8pm to help celebrate Campton's 250th anniversary. Web site: http://www.camptonnh.org/nh/campton-250-celebration/.
Campton - Dole Mill: Dance is from 5-7 PM. Donations and snacks accepted. Location: 1249 NH Route 175, Campton, NH. Please contact Jessye Bartlett for more information at fiddleheadfield@gmail.com - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/Campton-Contra-Community-532574923894914.
Campton - 1249: Dance at 1249 NH-175, Campton, NH 03223. Dance is from 7-9 PM with a 1 hr jam following the dance, so bring your instruments! There is no admission fee, but please bring a finger-food snack or beverage to share. Web site: None.
Candia: The Candia Community Woman's Club presents a Harvest Moon Contra Dance from 7pm – 9:30pm at the Moore School Gym, 12 Deerfield Road, Candia, NH. Admission is $3, for ages 14 and over. To purchase tickets in advance, please call Michelle at 587-0905.Tickets will be available at the door on a first-come, first-serve basis. Beginners and singles are welcome. All dances are taught and experience is not necessary. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and dress to stay cool. Wear soft-soled shoes. Contra dance is fun, fun, FUN! Web site: http://www.candiawomansgroup.org.
Canterbury - Wearing of the Green: Wearing of the Green Dance at 7pm. 5th Saturday Wind in the Timothy Junket. Location: 322 Shaker Road, Canterbury. Note: sit-ins welcome! For more information, call 603-783-4719. Web site: http://www.dudleylaufman.com.
Canterbury - Sweets of May: "Sweets of May Dance" at 7pm at the Canterbury United Community Church Parish House, 5 Center Road, Canterbury. Note: sit-ins welcome! Please visit www.dudleylaufman.com for more info. or call 603-783-4719. Web site: http://www.dudleylaufman.com.
Canterbury - Mid-Summer Dance: Mid-Summer dance at 7pm at 322 Shaker Road, Canterbury. Donation: $5; snacks welcome! Note: sit-ins welcome! Please visit www.dudleylaufman.com for more info. or call 603-783-4719. Web site: http://www.dudleylaufman.com.
Canterbury - Burns Night: Burns Night! Presented by Dudley Laufman and Lindsay Holden - Scottish dances, music and poetry at 7pm, 322 Shaker Road, Canterbury, NH. $5 Donation and Scottish snacks welcome! Questions? 603-783-4719 or dudleylaufman@gmail.com - Web site: https://www.dudleylaufman.com/.
Canterbury - Kitchen Junket: Kitchen Junket (music/dance) at 322 Shaker Road, Canterbury, NH starting at 7:30pm. Park on west side of road. Please bring a snack to share, and a flashlight. Web site: https://www.dudleylaufman.com/.
Canterbury - Leap Day: Kitchen Junket (music/dance) at 322 Shaker Road, Canterbury, NH starting at 7:30pm. Park on west side of road. Please bring a snack to share, and a flashlight. Web site: https://www.dudleylaufman.com/.
Canterbury - 2nd Saturday: Dances at the Canterbury Parish Hall, 5 Center Road, Canterbury, New Hampshire. Dances are from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Please bring clean shoes, water, friends, and family. No experience necessary. This is a community dance. All are welcome! For information, call Gale Wood at 603-793-5296 or gtomwood@gmail.com - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1801909466608693/.
Center Harbor - Summer Acoustic Music Week 1: It's a week of instruction in voice, song-writing, fingerstyle and flatpicking guitar, blues styles, banjo, fiddle, dulcimer, sound reinforcement, music theory & singing and more (a little dancing) held at Lake Winnipesaukee in late July. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.wumb.org/samw/.
Center Harbor - Summer Acoustic Music Week 2: It's a week of instruction in voice, song-writing, fingerstyle and flatpicking guitar, blues styles, banjo, fiddle, dulcimer, sound reinforcement, music theory & singing and more (a little dancing) held at Lake Winnipesaukee in late August. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.wumb.org/samw/.
Charlestown: Dance at The Fort at No. 4 267 Springfield Road (RT 11) from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. Tickets: Single $10.00; Couple $15.00. Period costuming is welcome, but not necessary. Web site: http://www.fortat4.org/.
Chester: Dances at Stevens Hall, 1 Chester Street from 7:30pm to 10:30pm on 1st Saturdays from October to May. Admission: $7.00, Students and Seniors $5, Under 12 free. More Information: Susan Cassista @ gscmusic@aol.com - Chester Contra Dance is a very friendly dance with a welcoming atmosphere. All steps are taught before each dance and the music is live! No partner is needed. No experience needed. Bring clean soft soled shoes (*no street shoes please). Bring a snack to share at the break and a water bottle - and don't forget your friends and neighbors. Web site: None.
Chicester: The Chicester Library is sponsoring a contra dance at the Chicester Grange Hall, 54 Main Street, Chicester, NH 03258 beginning at 7pm. Food and Drinks will be served and bring your dancing shoes. Sign-up at the Library, only 80 spots available. Call 603-798-5613. Web site: https://www.chichesternh.org/town-library.
Concord - Improvisation for Traditional Musicians: Workshop: Improvisation for Traditional Musicians at the Concord Community Music School, 23 Wall Street, Concord, New Hampshire 03301 at 7:00 PM. Web site: http://www.ccmusicschool.org/.
Concord - Market Days: The NH State Council on the Arts is helping to support an outdoor barn dance at the Concord Market Days. The dance will take place from 6:30-8pm on their South Main Performance stage, which is kind of near the Co-op. Web site: None.
Concord - Rich Kleinschmidt 70th Birthday: Rich is celebrating his 70th birthday (59 years of contra dancing) with a contra dance, and you are invited. Location: West Street Ward House, 41 West Street, Concord - I-93, Exit 13, US3 N Downtown, Up hill, Left arrow for West St., 3 blocks. 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Free but he might put out a donation box for some worthy cause. Perhaps something to do with the school shootings. More Info - Rich Kleinschmidt – 603-899-7574 – klnschmdt@gmail.com (9 letters – last name without the vowels). Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/534424439903143/.
Contoocook - Fiddleheads Acoustic Music Camp: Weekend music camp in early-mid September at Camp Methodios. The purpose of the Fiddleheads Music Camp is to teach and inspire musicians to play with each other in a band setting. Workshops on Saturday and Sunday mornings teach ear training skills, tunes, techniques of different styles and improvising tools. We form bands of various styles, practice playing with others and perform in an energy-filled Saturday evening concert. Jamming of various styles happens Friday and Saturday evenings. From blues to bluegrass, jigs to jazz, cajun to country and more!!! Register in advance. Web site: http://www.fiddleheadscamp.com/.
Contoocook - NH Acoustic JamCamp Weekend: Weekend music camp in early-mid September at Camp Methodios. The purpose of the NH Acoustic JamCamp Weekend is to teach and inspire musicians to play with each other in a band setting. The weekend features hours of jams, workshops and concerts throughout the day. We form bands of various styles, practice playing with others and perform in an energy-filled Saturday evening concert. Jamming of various styles happens Friday and Saturday evenings. From blues to bluegrass, jigs to jazz, cajun to country and more!! Register in advance. Web site: http://www.fiddleheadscamp.com/.
Conway: Dances at the Conway Village Congregational Church, also known as the Brown Church. The dance starts promptly at 7:30 p.m., running through 9:30 p.m. Admission will remain at $7 for adults, $3 for children under 12, and $15 for families. All dances are taught. There will be snacks. Call 447-2295 or (207) 625-2039 for more information. Web site: None.
Conway - 250th: Contra dance at Salyards, 110 Main Street, Conway, New Hampshire at 7 p.m. You don't need to know how to dance, most contra dances are called through before the individual dances start. All are welcome to this free event. Web site: None.
Cornish - Squares: Dance at Cornish Town Hall from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. Suggested donation: $7 per person, $12 per couple or $20 per family. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/383537118408225/.
Cornish - Saint Gaudens: Family Contradance at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, 139 St Gaudens Rd, Cornish, NH 03745 from 2pm to 4pm as aart of an annual "Family Picnic Day," the dance will be held on the grass at the historic Saint Gaudens site. All dances taught, no experience necessary, fun for all ages. Web site: https://davidmillstonedance.com/.
Croydon - 250th Anniversary Dance: Square dance in Croydon, NH, at the town hall from 7pm to 9pm as part of the Croydon 250th celebration, sponsored by the Croydon Historical Society. Admission: ?. Web site: http://www.croydonhistoricalsociety.org/.
Dartmouth - Fiddle Workshop: Fiddle Workshop with Rhiannon Giddens at 5:30pm in Alumni Hall. $10. In this intermediate level workshop, the Drops' Rhiannon Giddens introduces Upper Valley fiddlers to her freewheeling, American old-time sound. Class focuses on rep and style, including Piedmont tunes of Joe Thompson. Some experience required. Space is limited, though all are welcome to observe. Register online at hop.dartmouth.edu or call the Hop Box Office at 603.646.2422 - Web site: http://hop.dartmouth.edu.
Deering: Annual dance in June. No other information available. Web site: http://www.deering.nh.us.
Derry - First Parish Church: Family dance at the First Parish Church, 47 East Derry Road from 7:30 to 10 p.m. The event is open to families looking for a fun night of dance. Call the church for information at 434-0628. Web site: None.
Dover: Dances on 1st Thursdays at Dover City Hall, 288 Central Avenue, from 8:00pm to 10:40pm. Guest musicians & callers welcome. Web site: http://www.nhcountrydance.com/music/lamprey.html.
Dover - Creekman's Charity Swim and Concert: Creekman's Annual Charity Swim and Concert. All proceeds benefit SCS! 2 PM: Bellamy River Swim and 6-8 PM: Concert and Dance Party, Dover City Hall, 288 Central Avenue, Dover, NH 03820. General public: $20, SCS family members: $10, SCS students: $5, Kids 5 and under: FREE, Tickets can be purchased at the door. Web site: https://www.seacoastcharterschool.org/creekman.
Dunbarton: Old Home Day Family Dance on the Dunbarton Common. From 6:30 – 8 PM. FREE. Web site: None.
Durham - Ralph Page Legacy Weekend: The Ralph Page Dance Legacy Weekend is held annually in Durham, NH at the University of New Hampshire in January on the weekend that ends with Martin Luther King Day. This weekend is named in honor of Ralph Page, who was pivotal in sustaining and reviving traditional contra and square dancing in New England. Register in advance. Web site: http://ralphpage.neffa.org/.
Durham - University of New Hampshire: UNH Contra Dance starting at 7:00pm in University of New Hampshire, the Strafford Room in the Memorial Union Building at UNH, 83 Main Street, Durham, NH. Preferred parking for the Memorial Union Building is in Parking Lot C, on Mill Road. Free for students, $7 for community members. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1409986519250277.
Durham - Slow Life Sunday: Variety of events from noon to 8:30pm including a contra dance at The Fishbowl (straight across the road from T-Hall). The day will be filled with a foraging walk, yoga, a delicious community potluck, and contra dancing into the sunset. Plus, youth members in our community will be there with arts and crafts, like seed bombs and candle making! This FREE event is a collaboration of Slow Food UNH, ContraUNH, Peace and Justice League, The Yoga Club, and the UNH Organic Garden Club! A $5 donation for the dance is encouraged! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/slowfoodunh.
Durham - Unitarian Universalist: Dances at the Durham Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 20 Madbury Rd, Durham, NH 03824 from 8pm to 10pm. Admission: $2. Information: Peter Yarensky - yarensky@unh.edu - Web site: http://fiddle.nhcountrydance.com/lrb-dance.html.
East Alstead: New Floor Barn Dance, at 70 North Road in East Alstead. Mini Concert at 2:00 with Randy Miller and Gordon Peery (bring your own chair). Refreshments at 2:30. Contra Dance - 2:45-5:00. Web site: None.
East Derry - 3rd Friday: Mill City Contra Dances at the First Parish Church UCC, 47 E Derry Rd, East Derry NH. Introductory workshop at 7:30pm with the dance from 8:00pm to 11:00PM. Admission: $8 adults, $5 students, under 12 free. No partner necessary. All dances taught. Please bring soft-soled shoes. Air-conditioned hall. Contact Paul Lizotte at 603-595-4484 or plizotte at rivier dot edu. Web site: https://www.wordworthy2.org.
Enfield: Family Barn Dancing at Enfield Community Center, Route 4, 5pm dinner 7pm Dance. Collaboration with Cardigan Mt Art Association. Donations Welcome. Sponsored by the NH State Council on the Arts. Web site: http://www.dacres.org/Workshops%20&%20Events.htm.
Enfield - Colonial Ball: Enfield will celebrate its 250th anniversary with a Colonial Ball. As part of a full weekend of events in celebration of Enfield's founding 250 years ago, a Colonial Ball will be held at the Shaker Museum's Stone Mill building at 8 pm. A full evening of music, dance and entertainments is planned and all are encouraged to participate in the dancing. A dancing master will teach all dances and no prior experience, fancy footwork, or partner, is necessary. Colonial or fancy dress is encouraged but not required (and comfortable shoes are a "must" for dancing!) Please join the Enfield community for a fun, elegant summer evening of music and dance from the colonial period. In addition to dancing, refreshments will be served and door prizes awarded. Admission is $20 per person for the entire evening. For tickets and information go to Enfield's Facebook page (accessible to all, not just Facebook users) for the 250th Anniversary Celebration. Tickets are also available at: The Enfield Shaker Museum, Enfield Town Offices or the Enfield Village Assoc. office on Main St. For further information about the event, contact Rebecca Stewart, 603-632-7731 orpngco@comcast.net, or with specific questions about the dancing, contact David Millstone,millstone@valley.netWeb site: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=191121000916930.
Exeter: The 2nd Saturday dance in is held at the First Unitarian Society of Exeter (UU Church). Event is from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. The cost is $6.00 with students admitted for $3.00 and kids under 10 free. To get to the dance, take Route 101 to Exeter, Route 108 to Exeter Center, to "Kiosk" (Bandstand), turn left, go up hill to Elm Street. Left onto Elm Street. The dance is at the SECOND church on the left, just before Court Street. For more information, telephone: 603-679-1915; Email: holt.e@comcast.net. Potluck desserts at the break. We dance EVERY month - even in the summer - just bring a fan! Web site: http://www.exeteruu.org/events.
Exeter - Town Hall: Old-time NH dance held at Exeter Town Hall. Starts at 7:30 pm. No experience required, families welcome! Questions? Call 783-4719. Web site: None.
Fitzwilliam: Dances are sponsored by the Fitzwilliam Recreation Department and are held at the Town Hall from 8:00pm to 11:00pm with an admission charge of $6 and $3 for children. Web site: None.
Francestown - Labor Day Festvial: Multi-day, multi-event festival held on Labor Day (U.S.) weekend in early September. Includes a dance. Web site: http://www.francestown.info/.
Franconia: Dances at the Franconia Town Hall on Route 18. Dances on 3rd Fridays from September to May start at 7:30pm and there is a $5 admission charge. For more information, contact David Van Houten at dvh@earthling.net. Web site: None.
Freedom - Old Home Week: Contra dance as part of Old Home Week. Location: Freedom Town Hall, 2nd floor from 7pm to 9pm. No Charge, (Donations for FOHW always accepted!). Web site: https://freedomoldhomeweek.net/.
Gilmanton: Dancing on 2nd Saturdays from September to June at the Old Town Hall in Gilmanton Iron Works at 1800 RT 140, Gilmanton. Bring your friends. All are welcome. No partner necessary. Bring water and clean, soft soled shoes. Admission $8.00 - Adults $6:00 Juniors and Seniors. 7:30pm to 10:30pm. For more information: Call Gale: 603-793-5296 email: gtomwood@gmail.com - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/534424439903143/.
Gorham: Dance at the Medallion Opera House (Gorham Town Hall), 6:00 PM. Free and open to the public. Web site: None.
Gorham - Medallion Opera House: Dance at the Opera House, 20 Park St, Gorham, New Hampshire 03581 from 6pm to 9pm. Bring your dancing shoes. All dances taught. Beginners welcome with or without a partner. $8 adults/ $5 students. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/313671802860356/.
Hancock - Camp Backup: Weekend of music workshops by our staff of celebrated performers and renowned instructors will focus on how to thoughtfully play backup in a variety of traditional folk music styles. No dances listed. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.campbackup.com/.
Hancock - Old Home Days: Family Contra Dance as part of Hancock's Old Home Days from 6-7:30pm, under the tent on the village green. Web site: http://www.hancocknh.org/.
Hanover - Squares: Dance starts at 7pm at the Black Recreation Center, 48 Lebanon Street, Hanover, NH. Web site: http://www.hanovernh.org/Pages/HanoverNH_Recreation/SB.
Harrisville: Benefit dance for the the Marl-Harris Before and After School Program of Wells Memorial School. This program provides children with a fun, safe environment while parents are at work. Location: Wells Memorial School, 235 Chesham Road. Telephone: 603-827-3272. Time: 6:30-8:30 PM. Suggested Donation: $8.00. Festive food and beverages available! Web site: None.
Harrisville - Granite Mill: Dancing begins at 8:00 PM. Beginners and singles are welcome and all dances are taught throughout the evening. Admission is only $2, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous benefactor. The dance takes place in the historic Granite Mill, 69 Main Street in Harrisville, NH. For more information call (603) 313-3321. Web site: None.
Harrisville - Historic Harrisville - Family Dance: Historic Harrisville, Inc. presents a Family Dance at St. Denis Church, Harrisville, NH 03450. The music and dances will be in the tradition of the New England barn dance. The music and dance presented are part of an unbroken tradition of dance in this region. Families, singles, neighbors and friends of all ages are encouraged to come. All of the dances will be taught and no experience is needed. Admission is $5.00 for individuals, $15 for families. Event is from 6pm to 8pm. For more information call 603-209-3304 or email huntandallison@gmail.com - Web site: http://www.historicharrisville.org/.
Hillsborough - History Alive: Dance on the Saturday of this weekend of delightful, interactive living history experience and take part in the unique history of New England. Dance to occur at the Stonewall Farm Bed and Breakfast Barn, 235 Windsor Rd, Hillsborough, NH 03244 from 5pm to 7pm. Web site: https://historyalivenh.org.
Holderness: Dance from 7:30pm-10:30pm at the Squam Lakes Association Fisher Family Youth Activity Barn, US Route 3 Holderness. Cost: $8 per person (students and youth $4) Web site: http://squamlakes.org.
Holderness - Squares - Rockywold-Deephaven: Community dinner and square dance. A buffet dinner with salad bar, desert and non-alcoholic beverages included will be served in the Rockywold Dining Room. Just a short walk away at the RDC Playhouse, a square dance will begin at 7:30 p.m. and continue until you have had your fill. The cost for the dinner and dance is $20.00 per person, $12.00 for children under 10 years of age. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to 603 968-3313 by Wednesday, June 17. Space is limited. Web site: http://www.rdcsquam.com/.
Hopkinton - Squares: Dances at the Hopkinton Library from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Web site: http://www.hopkintontownlibrary.org.
Isle of Shoals - Star Hampshire Traditional Music and Dance Weekend: Held off the coast of New Hampshire in mid-September. New England contras, squares, couple dances, group singing & great music. Register in advance. Web site: http://starhampshire.org/index.html.
Jackson - Whitney Community Center: The Whitney Community Center in Jackson is celebrating its 10th anniversary of serving the community with a potluck and contra dance on at 5:30 p.m. All are invited. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/whitneycenterNH/.
Jaffrey: Family Contra Dance from 7:30 to 9:30pm at the Quaker Meeting House, 3 Davidson Rd, just off 202, 2.6 mi N of Jaffrey, 3.6 mi S of 101. Proceeds are being used by the Quaker Meeting to support a sister church in Cuba. Web site: http://www.monadnockfriends.org/.
Jaffrey - Benefit for Gibara, Cuba Quaker Meeting: Location: Monadnock Quaker Meeting, 3 Davidson Rd., Jaffrey. Look for sign on east side of Rte. 202 about 3.5 miles south of Rte. 101/202 intersection in Peterborough, or 3 miles north of Jaffrey on Rt 202. (Phone at Meetinghouse: 532-6203). Dance is from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Cost: $5-$10 suggested donation. Families and children welcome! Refreshments provided. Please bring soft soled shoes for dancing inside. Questions? call Marisa 603-930-6780 or email: marisa.cawley@gmail.com - Web site: None.
Jaffrey - June in Jaffrey: Concert and Dance at the Grand View Barn, 580 Mountain Rd, Jaffrey, 03452 as part of the "June in Jaffrey" festival. Picnic at 6pm, concert at 7pm, dance at 8pm. Admission is $15 for the concert and dance, with an $8 option for those just wishing to attend the dance. Web site: http://electricearthconcerts.org.
Keene: Dances at on 1st Fridays from November (maybe October) through May at Heberton Hall in the Keene Public Library Annex, 60 Winter Street. Dances begin at 6:30pm and end at 8:30pm. Free Admission. Web site: http://keenepubliclibrary.org/.
Keene - Sophia's Hearth Family Center: Sophia's Hearth Family Center will host a family Contra dance. Tickets are $10 per person, or $25 per family, which includes dancing and dining on hearty soups provided by The Works Bakery Cafe. There will also be a silent auction featuring a variety of products. All proceeds will benefit the work of Sophia's Hearth Family Center. 2:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Stonewall Farm, 242 Chesterfield Rd. Call (603) 357-3755 for more information. Web site: http://sophiashearth.org/.
Keene - Stonewall Farm Appreciation Night: Come celebrate local farms, farmers and farming with celebration and fellowship. There will be dinner, drinks, music, and dancing. Everyone of all ages are invited to honor and celebrate the growers in our region. This is an event not to be missed! Event is from 5:00pm to 8:00pm Web site: http://www.stonewallfarm.org.
Keene - Frozen Farm Fest: Outdoor activities during the day; contra dancing, food, refreshments and a cash bar from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Web site: http://www.stonewallfarm.org.
Keene - Fiddle and Cello Workshop Monadnock Region Fiddle & Cello Workshop. Location: At The Starving Artist, 10 West Street, Keene, NH 03431. 1:00 pm Advanced; 2:00 pm Intermediate (and Advanced); 3:00 pm Beginner (and Intermediate and Advanced); 4:00-5:00 pm Contra Dance! Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Keene - Wyman Tavern Celebration Dance: The Wyman Tavern Celebration Dance will be held at the Historical Society of Cheshire County, 246 Main Street, from 8:00 to 11:00 pm. Dances from the 18th Century to the present will be called. Refreshments will be served. Period dress is encouraged, but not required. Admission is $8.00. From 7:00 to 8:00 pm, dancers are welcome to visit the Wyman Tavern to walk through one of the region's oldest and most historic homes. For more information, contact Kathy Schillemat at 603-352-1895 or hscc@hsccnh.org Web site: None.
Keene - Ralph Page Program: Living history presentation in which Adam Boyce will portray Ralph Page, the Dean of American Folk Dancing. Location: Historical Society of Cheshire County exhibit hall at 246 Main Street in Keene. Time: 7pm. Web site: http://www.hsccnh.org.
Keene - Farm Appreciation Night: Buffet dinner! 5:30pm-7pm featuring a dinner of many local ingredients, generously prepared by Inn & Out Hospitality and an army of volunteers! Potluck – casseroles, salads, and vegetable dishes welcomed. Cash bar! Dance! 7:30pm-10:00pm - Get your groove on. Location: Heberton Hall, next to the Keene Library. Web site: http://www.mfccoalition.org.
Keene - Monday: Dances at Heberton Hall, 76 Winter St in Keene for several Mondays while the Nelson Town Hall is under renovation. Dance is from 8:00pm to 10:30pm. Donation $3.00. Free cookies. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Keene - Social Series: Concerts, sometimes with dancing, at various locations and times in Keene. The series brings live music to local historic homes and buildings one Sunday afternoon per month. Along with a live concert, there are presentations on the historic importance of the concert venue as well as a talk on other local historic sites. All proceeds from this series go to the renovation fund for the Sumner Knight Chapel. Web site: http://keenemusicfestival.org.
Keene - Scandinavian: Teaching and Dance Instruction, Waltz, Norwegian Polka and Hambo, 3pm to 5pm; Dance Party 5pm to 6:30pm. Location: Keene UU Church, 69 Washington Street, Keene, NH 03431 United States. Web site: None.
Kingston: Dances on 4th Saturdays at the Kingston Town Hall, 163 Main St., from 8 to 11 p.m. There will be a refreshment potluck during the break. Bring snacks to share and water to drink. Dancers are asked to bring a change of shoes, with clean soles, to help preserve the floor's finish. Admission is $8. For directions or more information, call Glenn at 603-772-5355 or gcoppelman@gmail.com,, Gale at 603-793-5296, or Sarah at 659-5612. Web site: None.
Kingston - Swazey Gym: Kingston Community Library presents Contra Dancing in New Hampshire Then and Now. Lecture! Live Music! Demonstrations! Audience Participation! Food! Starts at 7PM at the Swazey Gymnasium, 178 Main Street, Kingston. For more information, please call 603-642-3521. Web site: http://www.kingston-library.org.
Kingston - Kingston Stables: There will be a free of charge Contradance Party at Kingston Stables, 19 Marshall Rd, Kingston, NH. Please call Albert Brien to reserve a spot. The guest number will be limited to 50. Tel 603-642-5434 or e-mail albertb189@aol.com - Food will be served at 1:00 PM and dancing will commence at 2:00. Under the tent dancing on the grass. Web site: None.
Kingston - New Year's Eve: Dance at the Kingston, NH Town Hall (163 Main Street, just west of Route 125 on "the plains") from 8pm to 11pm. Admission: $8. Shoes: Please bring clean, non-street shoes for dancing. Snacks: Pot luck at the break (bring your favorite refreshments to share). Web site: None.
Laconia - Prescott Farm Harvest Festival: This one-day festival (10am to 3pm) includes a contra dance at 1pm. Location: 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, NH 03246. Web site: https://prescottfarm.org/.
Lebanon - Waltz: First and Third Thursdays in October, November and December 2010 from 7-9 p.m. Cost: $5 per session at The old Carter Community Building (CCB), first floor gym, 1 Taylor Street. Web site: https://sites.google.com/site/waltzoutsidethebox/.
Lebanon - Family: Annual dance at the Lebanon High School from 7pm to 9pm. Dance takes place in the cafeteria. Family-friendly event for all ages. Great refreshments, and a pie auction follows the dance. Web site: None.
Lebanon - Musicians' Workshop: 11:30am-1:30pm - Fiddle Tune Jam (Salt Hill Pub, Leb NH) - Free and open to all. Workshops at the UV Music Center are designed for a general beginner / intermediate player and are open to all instruments. Participants should sign up in advance, no later than 10/30. Workshops ($) from 2:00pm to 4:45pm. Concert ($) at 7:30 pm, Congregational Church, on the green, Lebanon, NH. Web site: http://www.uvmusic.org.
Lebanon - Expand Your Musical Bounds: A Workshop on Finding Kinetic Motion in Music, for Folk, Classical, and Jazzy Improvisers and Would-Be Improvisers with Ken Burns' pianist. Registration: $35. Location: Upper Valley Music Center, 8 South Park Street, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03766. Web site: http://www.uvmusic.org/.
Lebanon - Northeast Heritage Music Camp Workshop: From 2pm to 6:30pm at the Upper Valley Music Center 8 South Park Street, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03766. 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM - Workshop: Playing in a Band; 4:00 PM - 5:15 PM - Concert; 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Jam. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/299866504216300/.
Londonderry: Dances on 2nd Fridays year around from 8:00 to 11:00 pm, with a greeting/refresher/learner session at 7:30 pm at the Londonderry Senior Center, 535 Mammoth Road. Admission: $8, $3 age 12 and under. For more info: 603-529-1586 or weareampm@gsinet.net - Web site: http://tinyurl.com/yctdxhvy.
Loudon - Miles Smith Farm: Special Farm Day celebration at Miles Smith Farm, 56 Whitehouse Road, Loudon, NH. There will be music, food, hay rides and other activities during the day. Then there will be a contra dance and potluck supper at 7 PM. Web site: http://www.milessmithfarm.com/.
Loudon - Town Hall: Dance at the Loudon NH Town Hall 433 Clough Hill Rd from 7-8:30 pm. Cost: Bring a dessert to share. Sponsored by Loudon Center Baptist Church. Contact: Shirley Marcroft - shirley.marcroft@gmail.com - 603-968-7251. Web site: None.
Lyman - Nordic Fiddles and Feet: Week long Swedish and Norwegian music and dance camp that takes place in late June/early July The camp location is Camp Ogontz near Littleton, New Hampshire. Register in advance. Web site: http://nordicfiddlesandfeet.org/ .
Lyman - CDSS - Revels Village: The Revels Village is the ultimate summer camp show-and-tell. Contra and English country dancers, morris and sword dancers, singers, musicians, actors, costume makers, props and puppet makers, and theatre lovers of all ages are needed to help this residential program fly! Week-long. Registration required. Includes some dancing, but as one of many activities. Web site: http://www.cdss.org.
Lyme - Congregational Church: Time: 6:30 p.m., Neighborhood Potluck supper and contra dance. Contra Dances return to the Lyme Congregational Church (Route 10)! For many years the Fellowship Hall was the site of Upper Valley contra dances, but as the old floor deteriorated, the dances moved to other, flatter floors. On March 16th, we'll kick off the year-long 200th Anniversary celebration with the return of the contra dance in the recently renovated Fellowship Hall. Please help us spread the word, invite your neighbors, and attend yourself - all are welcome for this evening of food, fellowship, and contra-dancing! Web site: http://lymecongregationalchurch.web.officelive.com/.
Lyme - School PTO Fundraiser: We are on track to have our PTO fundraiser here in Lyme. Location: a 200 year-old barn at 122 Breck Hill Road in Lyme. Time: 5:30pm-10:00pm. Description: Family Dance with dinner (buffet), all levels welcome, fundraiser for the Lyme School PTO. Tickets are $15.00 per person $65.00 per family cap (family members only). Tickets include dinner and dancing. Reserving space for this great evening of good old fashioned fun is strongly recommended! Reservation forms are available through the Lyme School and Converse Free Library. Or contact Toni Gildone for an electronic version greene.gildone@gmail.com Web site: None.
Lyme - Independence Day Celebration: Dance at the Lyme Green from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Web site: https://www.lymenh.gov/.
Manchester - Community Music School: The Manchester Community Music School will hold a Fall Fun Festival from 10am to 4pm at the School, 2291 Elm Street, Manchester, NH 03104 and the event includes a barn dance along with activities for the kis, a craft and food fair, etc. Tickets are $5, adults free when accompanied by a child, and children under 2 years old are free. Web site: http://mcmusicschool.org.
Manchester - Sarah Lee Pollack: Sarah Lee Pollack, known as the “barefoot contra dancer,” passed away on April 9th. A Memorial Potluck and Contra Dance will be held at the UU Church of Manchester, 20 Elm Street, Manchester, NH United States. 12 noon: Potluck for all family, neighbors, friends and fellow dancers, BBQ meats provided. 1 PM Contra Dance. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/.
Meredith Center: Dance at Meredith Center Grange Hall/Wicwas Grange Hall, 150 Meredith Center Road. Beginners welcome. Workshop 7, dance 7:30, $10/person. Info 603-726-0063 Web site: None.
Milford: Traditional Contra Dances in the Milford Town Hall 3rd floor Auditorium from 7:30 PM and ends at 10:30 PM. The Fourth Friday of Every Month except March and November. It is air-conditioned for summer dances. Contra dances, square dances, circle dances, waltzes. Easy to learn! All dances are called! No complicated dance steps to memorize! Come meet new friends! A smoke and alcohol free environment! No need to bring a partner! Families welcome! Admission $7.00 for adults but now students and seniors are $5.00. Children under 12 are free. Please bring another pair of soft soled, non-marking shoes to dance in, to preserve the wood floor. For further information, contact Sandy Lafleur, 603-654-1245 or strumma@aol.com - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/Milford-Contra-Dance-920139244691079/ or https://www.milford.nh.gov/sites/milfordnh/files/uploads/contra_dance_flyer.pdf.
Milford - Big Read: Dance as part of this year's "Big Read" activities in connection with The Grapes of Wrath. Location: Milford Town Hall from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Admission: $7, seniors and students $5, under 12 free. All ages welcome. Web site: http://fireseedalliance.org.
Milford - Souhegan Valley Food Coop: Dance fundraiser for the Souhegan Valley Food Coop at the Holland Farm, 269 Osgood Road, Milford, NH from 7pm to 10pm. Suggested Donation: $10 /person, $25 /family. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/Souhegan-Valley-Food-Co-op-314638592066023/.
Milford - Souhegan Valley Food Coop Benefit: Fundraiser for the Co-op which seeks to establish a retail outlet to connect residents with farmers. Location: Holland Farm, 269 Osgood Road, Milford, NH from 7pm to 10pm. Suggested Donation: $10 /person, $25 /family. Suitable for all ages; refreshments will be served. Web site: https://souheganvalleyfood.coop.
Milford - Pumpkin Festival: A contra dance on Sunday is one of the activities at this weekend festival. Web site: http://s575880612.onlinehome.us/.
Mirror Lake: There's a new contra dance option in the Lakes Region: a 4th-Saturday series in Tuftonboro running from January 2011 through April 2011, with further dances dependent on how the initial run goes. Dances will be at the Todaro Leadership Center at North Woods Camp, 144 Governor Wentworth Highway (Rt. 109), from 7 to 10 p.m. Ticket prices are $7 adults, $5 students, and $3 for youth 14 yrs and under. The dance is being generously sponsored by Eldridge & Gillespie, Made on Earth, and The Folk Cellar. Information on location: http://bostonycamps.org/todaroleadershipcenter - The series is presented by Wolfeboro's GALA (Global Awareness/Local Action) and the contact is Josh Arnold at 539-6460 or josh@galacommunity.org Web site: http://galacommunity.org.
Monroe: At Monroe Town Hall at 7pm. Web site: http://nipsmusic.net.
Nashua: Come join us for Contra Dancing at 7:00 in the Auditorium of the Unitarian Universalist Church, 58 Lowell Street. An experienced dance caller will teach and lead us through the dances. No partner necessary! All ages welcomed and encouraged to attend. The cost is $7/per person not to exceed $25/per family. Bring friends, bring neighbors and plan to have a good time! Web site: http://www.uunashua.org.
Nelson - Monday: Dances are from 8:00pm - 10:30pm every Monday. Donation $3.00. Free cookies. The Nelson Monday Night Dance is an informal dance featuring a variety of callers and musicians, from local regulars to visiting dignitaries. An effort is made to identify and welcome beginners, and several of our regular dancers are always willing to offer a few tips. But if you arrive at the dance and feel lost, don't hesitate to speak to the caller or someone else that looks like they know what they are doing. If you are musician and would like to play for a dance or two during the evening, speak to Roger Treat (or the caller if need help identifying Roger) - he is the official coordinator, and he will work you into the program (such as it is). If you'd like to sit in as a backup musician, you should ask whoever is playing at the time; some players are more receptive than others, and some may have tune sets that are more difficult to follow. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/?page_id=63.
Nelson - Christmas Night: Special dance at the Nelson Town Hall. Begins at 8:00pm. There will be a dessert potluck afterwards so bring treats. Admission is free - the Monadnock Folklore Society sponsors this dance as a gift to the community. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Nelson - New Year's Eve: It's the annual New Year's Eve potluck and dance at the Nelson Town Hall, taking place on December 31st. We'll begin with a dinner potluck at 7 PM, and then continue with contra dancing until we’re done. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Nelson - Winter Solstice Party: On a Saturday near the winter solstice (Northern Hemisphere), the Monadnock Folklore Society brings this community event to the Nelson Town Hall from 7:00pm to 11:00pm with an admission of $5. Treats are appreciated for the dessert potluck. Many times the evening includes a holiday concert. After the concert the chairs and benches are cleared to make way for a traditional New England Contradance. Unfortunately, or not, the dance is often interrupted by various groups of unsavory characters presenting their idea of seasonal entertainment. These diversions, sometimes involving costumed individuals making complete fools of themselves or performing ancient ritual dances to help us through this dark time of the year, are generally tolerated as once they are applauded and fed we can return to dancing the night away. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Nelson - Benefit for Landis Family: A special benefit Contra Dance will be held in Nelson, NH. This dance is a fundraising benefit to help the Landis family of Jaffrey, whose home was tragically destroyed in a fire earlier this summer. Dancing begins at 8:00 PM, with a short workshop beforehand. Beginners and singles are welcome and all dances are taught throughout the evening. Admission is $12 or $10 for students and seniors. All proceeds will go directly to the Landis family. The dance takes place at the historic Town Hall in Nelson, NH. For more information call 603-762-0235. The Monadnock Folklore Society has presented contra dances and concerts of traditional music since 1982. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Nelson - Old Home Week Dance: Dance at the Nelson Town Hall from 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm. Admission: $2. Beginners and singles are welcome and all dances are taught throughout the evening. Admission is only $2, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous benefactor. The dance takes place in the historic Town Hall in Nelson, NH and is sponsored by the Monadnock Folklore Society. For more information call 603.762.0235 - Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Nelson - 1941 Dance: The Nelson 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee and the Monadnock Folklore Society presents a contra dance with the theme for this dance being to recreate the look of photos from a 1941 dance to the extent possible. Most dances will be from that era. Dancers are encouraged, but not required to dress in 1941-style attire. Dancing begins at 8 p.m. Beginners and singles are welcome, and all dances are taught throughout the evening. Admission is free. Web site: None.
Nelson - 40th Anniversary of the Monday Night Dance: The Monadnock Folklore Society celebrates 40 years of the Monday Night Contra Dance at the Nelson NH Town Hall. Performers from across the decades will call and play music. Back in January of 1978, local resident Peter Temple had the idea to create a friendly, weeknight dance. The dance was held at Clark Hall in Harrisville for the first five years, and then moved to the Nelson Town Hall where it’s been ever since. The dance is well known for its community spirit, volunteer performers and excellent cookies. Dancers of all ages and backgrounds come from near and far, and visitors are always welcome. The event begins at 7:00 PM. Admission is $5. The dance takes place in the historic Town Hall in Nelson, NH at 7 Nelson Common Road. For more information call 603.762.0235. Web site: http:///www.monadnockfolk.org.
New Ipswich - Waterloom Fairy Festival: Day-long festival including a contra dance occurs at the Souhegan Country Club. 290 Old Country Road, New Ipswich, NH 03071. Gates open at noon. There will be a variety of events including the above mentioned contra dance session. Festival admission $10 for adults, $4 children under 12. Web site: https://www.waterloomfairyfestival.com/.
Newfields: Dances on the last Friday of the month in the Newfields Town Hall, 65 Main Street, Newfields, NH 03856 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm p.m. Beginnners' lesson at 7:30pm. Admission: $9 Adult, $6 Student, children under 12 free. http://seacoastcontra.com/.
Newfound Lake - Floating Bridge Music Camp: Weekend music camp (no mention of dancing). Quebecois traditional music classes. Although sheet music may be made available from some of the tunes, the bulk of the teaching will be done by ear. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.jeremiahmclane.com/music-camps.html.
Newport - Opera House: New Hampshire Humanities Council's Country Dance Party with dancing and storytelling at the Newport Opera House Association, 20 Main St, Newport, New Hampshire 03773 beginning at 6:30pm. Space is limited and tickets are required, so reserve yours today! Please share with your music, dance and story-loving friends. Tickets are $10 per person and $20 for a family (two adults and two children ages 8 to 18). Children under 8 are free. Web site: http://www.nhhc.org/.
North Conway - Rozzie May Animal Alliance: Benefit hoedown/contra dance at the North Conway Community Center. The event starts at 4 pm and ends at 8pm. The admission $8, under 12 free, over 60 and military $6. There is a food concession; hot dogs, beans, coleslaw, etc. Family friendly event. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/Rozzie-May-Animal-Alliance-190702777634859/.
North Hampton - Seacoast Academy of Music: Dance at Centennial Hall, Seacoast Academy of Music, 105 Post Road, North Hampton, NH from 6pm to 9pm (pre-dance instruction at 5:30pm. $8.00 Adults; $5.00 ages 10-18; Under 10 FREE. Come one and all! No partner necessary! Questions??? Call Laura King: 513-565-2898 or Gale Wood: 603-793-5296 The first hour of the dance will be attended by beginners while experienced dancers will be a great asset. Web site: http://seacoastacademyofmusic.org.
North Sutton: Come shake off the long snowy winter May 23rd with an Free evening of music and dance and a presentation at Muster Field Farm, PO Box 118, Harvey Rd, North Sutton, New Hampshire 03260. Potluck starts the evening off on the right foot at 5:30. Web site: http://musterfieldfarm.com.
North Sutton - Keyset Street: Dance on Keyset Street, across from the Vernondale Store. The community is recreating a dance series that took place in the late 1940s to raise money for a playground; last summer's dance was the first such since that time. The short street is blocked off, strung lights overhead, and dancing occurs on the street, with whole oats strewn on the aslphalt to make a more slippery surface for dancing. Time: 7pm to 9pm. Web site: None.
North Sutton - Old Home Day: Outdoor street dance, old-fashioned squares and much more from 7pm to 9pm. We'll be outside the Vernondale Store, 1526 New Hampshire 114, North Sutton, NH. The town is recreating a 1948 street dance, complete with lights strung across the road. Web site: None.
.Ogontz - CDSS Family Week: Week-long camp featuring music, dance and other activities at Ogontz Camp in the White Mountains in early August. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.cdss.org.
Orange - 250th Anniversary: Celebrate 250 years of history in this small town (population 311). We'll do simple dances from different periods over the centuries, from English country dances that early settlers would know up to lively squares and contras of more recent times. Location: Orange Town House, 8 Town House Rd, Orange, NH 03741. the event includes a dessert buffet featuring special orange recipes. (Orange NH web site says 7pm to 10pm; David Millstone's web site says 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Web site: https://www.orangenh.us.
Ossipee - Global Awareness Local Action: Global Awareness Local Action (G.A.L.A.) is continuing its winter contra dance series starting in January, with a change of venue and occuring on the 4th Saturday of the month until April. Location: Ossipee Town Hall - Gymnasium, 55 Main Street, Center Ossipee NH 03814. Time: 7:00pm to 10:00 pm. All levels of dancer and all ages welcome. Cost: Adult: $7, Student: $5, Youth: $3. For more information contact: Global Awareness Local Action (G.A.L.A.) Telephone. 603-539-6460 Web site: http://www.galacommunity.org or http://www.facebook.com/#!/GALAcommunity.
Ossipee - Town Hall: Dance at Ossipee Town Hall, 55 Main St, Center Ossipee, NH 03814, from 6pm – 8pm. Web site: None.
Peterborough - 1st Saturday: The dances are held on the first Saturday of every month (excepting sometimes in August) at the Peterborough Town House, 1 Grove Street. The dance opens at 7:30 with a beginners workshop, and the dancing starts at 8:00. The callers and bands represent diverse choices from New England's finest. Admission to the dance is $10 / $7 for students and senior citizens. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/?page_id=30.
Peterborough - Fall Ball: Annual day-long dance event held in October at the Peterborough Town House, 1 Grove Street, featuring several bands and callers. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/.
Peterborough - Play Ball: Annual event held in April (to celebrate the beginning of the baseball season) at the Peterborough Town House, 1 Grove Street, featuring at least two bands and callers. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/.
Peterborough - Snow Ball: Annual day-long dance event held in January at the Peterborough Town House, 1 Grove Street, featuring several bands and callers. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/.
Peterborough - Thanksgiving Eve: Special dance at the Peterborough Town House, 1 Grove Street. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/.
Peterborough - Civil War Ball: To launch its exhibit, The Civil War, the Peterborough Historical Society is presenting a Civil War Ball at 7:30 PM. This gala event is open to the public, and promises to be an instructive and entertaining evening. Dance will include circle, square, and longway set dances (as well as polkas and waltzes). Dancers are invited to appear in period costume, however this is not required, and everyone is welcome. While everyone will be encouraged to dance, those who are unable to should feel welcome to come and observe. The setting is the Peterborough Historical Society's Bass Hall, a lovely chestnut-paneled room that serves as an elegant venue for the dance. Light refreshments will be provided. Admission is $12. It is recommended that tickets be purchased in advance, as the capacity of the hall is limited. They are available from the PHS Website (click here) , or at the PHS office, 19 Grove St. in Peterborough, NH. For more information you may also call PHS at 603.924.3235. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - Family: In earlier times, contra dancing, circle dancing, and other traditional dancing was a common way to pass the time, have fun, and socialize. For the opening of our spring exhibit, Children: Seen and Heard, the Peterborough Historical Society is delighted to host a family dance. On this evening we invite families and individuals of all ages to come and enjoy a variety of dances and singing games. You'll have a lot of fun, and by the end of the evening, without realizing it, you'll have learned a little history as well. Admission is free. Questions? Give us a call at 603-924-3235. Web site: http://peterboroughhistory.org.
Peterborough - Family - Bass Hall: Dance from 6:30 – 8:30 PM at the Bass Hall at the Monadnock Center for History and Culture, 19 Grove Street, Peterborough NH. Part of the "Gents Bow, Ladies Know How: Traditional Dance and Music of the Monadnock Region 1750-2015" exhibit at the Monadnock Center for History and Culture. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - Celebration of New England Contra Dance Music Honoring Bob McQuillen: Location: Peterborough Unitarian Church, corner of Main and Summer Streets Peterborough, NH at 11am. Name a musician or dancer who hasn't been influenced in some way by Bob McQuillen, patriarch of contra dance piano players. At this presentation, Gordon Peery will offer some brief narrative of the history of New England contra dance music, weaving in the role that Bob has played in both preserving and defining the musical traditions. But most of the program will be some actual music, presented by Old New England (Jane Orzechowski, Deanna Stiles, and of course, Bob himself). Web site: http://www.monadnocklyceum.org.
Peterborough - Monday: Dances at the Peterborough Community Center at 25 Elm Street for several Mondays while the Nelson Town Hall is under renovation. Dance is from 8:00pm to 10:30pm. Donation $3.00. Free cookies. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - Contra Dancing in New Hampshire - Then and Now: The Monadnock Center for History and Culture has received a grant from the New Hampshire Humanities Council to present “Contra Dancing in New Hampshire — Then and Now” by Dudley Laufman at 10:00 AM, in Bass Hall at 19 Grove Street in Peterborough, NH. This program is free and open to the public. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - Gents Bow, Ladies Know How: Learn about the history of traditional dance in the Monadnock region at a curator-led gallery talk at 10 a.m at 19 Grove Street. Traditional dance, brought to New Hampshire by immigrants from England, Scotland, Ireland and France, has enjoyed a long and unbroken history in the Monadnock Region. In this one hour tour of the Monadnock Center’s new exhibit, you will see instruments, art, and artifacts and hear the music that documents this unique part of our region’s past. Gallery talks are free with museum admission ($3, free admission for Monadnock Center and CDSS members). Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - Sedition and Maple Syrup: The Monadnock Center for History and Culture presents "Dance Music, Sedition and Maple Syrup:The Musical Roots of Old New England," a musical presentation at 10 a.m. This event takes place in Bass Hall at the Monadnock Center, located at 19 Grove Street in Peterborough, NH. The program is free and open to the public. For more information call 603-924-3235 or visit www.MonadnockCenter.org. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - Bob McQuillen Festival of Music and Dance:Annual (we hope) Bob McQuillen Festival of Music and Dance will take place on Saturday at South Meadow School in Peterborough, NH. 3:30-6:30 PM Dance, 6:30 - 7:30 Fundraiser Dinner for scholarship at ConVal and jam session, 8-11 PM Dance. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org.
Peterborough - The Sources and Evolution of New England Contra Dance Music: An Annotated Concert: A free presentation of the evolution of New England contra-dance music by discussing and performing examples of different genres that contribute to the New England style. Presented by the Monadnock Lyceum, 25 Main Street, Peterborough, NH from 11am to noon. Web site: http://www.monadnocklyceum.org.
Peterborough - Duke Miller Dance: Family Dance Honoring Duke Miller from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the Monadnock Center for History and Culture at 19 Grove Street in Peterborough, NH. Cost: $15-$18. Duke Miller was a high-school football coach from upstate New York who called summer square dances in southern New Hampshire from the 1950s until the late 1970s. Many local musicians played for Duke over the years, including the late Bob McQuillen of Peterborough, NH, who played accordion and piano for twenty-six consecutive summers. All ages are encouraged to attend and no partner is necessary. Beginners and singles are welcome and all dances are taught throughout the session. Admission is $15 for Monadnock Center members and $18 for non-members. For more information call 603-762-0235. Web site: https://monadnockcenter.org.
Peterborough - The Dancingmaster of Canterbury: The Dancingmaster is a whimsical musical portrait of the legendary contra dance caller, Dudley Laufman. The Dancingmaster tells his story in his own words, adapted by composer Lawrence Siegel from his interview with Dudley in 2011. The character “Dudley” is played by the great traditional musician, Keith Murphy. Becky Tracy and Larry Siegel provide the musical accompaniment. Mary DesRosiers, a dancingmaster in her own right, creates original choreography performed by a group of traditional dancers from the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire. 8:00pm at the Peterborough Town Hall Peterborough, NH. General Admission: $20 in advance, $24 at the door. Web site: http://www.monadnockfolk.org/.
Plainfield - Squares: Dance is a part of Plainfield's 250th anniversary celebration. Dance is from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at the Plainfield Town Hall, Main Street (Route 12A). Web site: None.
Plymouth - Leaf Peeper Square Dance: Dance is at the Starr King Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 101 Fairgrounds Road, Plymouth, New Hampshire 03264 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Information: cdkriebel@gmail.com - Web site: None.
Randolph - Randolph Mountain Club Benefit Square Dance: Square Dance to Benefit the RMC from 7:30 to 9:30pm at Beringers' barn at Sugar Plum Farm (232 Randolph Hill Road). All dances taught, beginners encouraged! Web site: http://www.randolphmountainclub.org.
Randolph - Randolph Mountain Club's Cabin Fever: Randolph Mountain Club's Cabin Fever Reliever Square and Contra Dance from 7pm to 10pm at the Randolph Town Hall, 130 Durand Rd, Randolph, NH 03593. All dances taught. Beginners and singles encouraged! $10 admission charged at the door. Children welcome. For more information, call Jenn at 631-0870. Web site: http://randolphmountainclub.org/.
Richmond - Blueberry Fiddle Festival: One day event held in mid-August: Our family festival has activities for all ages! Whether you prefer to sit and enjoy the music, participate in a sack race, stroll among antique cars, browse the crafts, eat special festival food, or strike up a converstation with an historical re-enactor, boo and hiss at the villain of a melodrama . . . you will find something to keep you entertained! Plenty of music with a dance at the end of the day. Web site: http://www.rbff.net/.
Rollinsford - Garrison Players: Garrison Players is celebrating 60 years of theater with a Family Hoe-Down to be held from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. at the Garrison Players Arts Center (650 Portland Ave, Rollinsford, NH). Join in for an evening of food, fiddlin' and fun. The supper will feature ham, baked beans, cole slaw, corn bread, dessert and beverages. After supper, tap your feet to the music and calling. This promises to be a fun night out for the whole family so reserve your space early and don’t miss out. Tickets are $15/person, $25/couple, children 12 and under free. Tickets are available at Nicole's Hallmark in Downtown Dover or by calling the Arts Center at 603-750-4278. Web site: http://www.garrisonplayers.org/.
Sanbornville - First Congregational Church of Wakefield: Dance sponsored by the church to be held at the Wakefield Town Hall and Opera House, 2 High St, Sanbornville, New Hampshire 03872 from 7pm to 9pm. $10 Adult; $5 Teens. 12 and Under Free. Refreshments included. Web site: http://www.fccwakefieldnh.org/.
Sandwich: Dance is at Partridge Rock Farm, 87 Range Road, Sandwich, 7-9 pm. Bring a snack to share during intermission. Web site: None.
Sandwich - Old Home Week: Dancing, as part of the Selectmen's Picnic, is one of the activities of Old Home Week. Location: Craft Bldg., Fairgrounds. Main entree and drink provided. Bring a side dish or dessert to share. Picnic with friends and neighbors and dance. Event is from 5pm to 7pm. Web site: http://www.sandwichnh.org.
Sarbornville - Wakefield Opera House: Family contra dance at the Opera House, 2 High Street. Dance begins at 7:00 PM. Admission: $15.00; $12.00 Seniors. Web site: http://wakefieldoperahouse.org/.
Sanbornville - Lions Club Benefit: The Greater Wakefield Lions Club will be hosting a Contra Dance on from 7:30-9:30 pm at the Wakefield Opera House, 2 High St., Wakefield NH, to benefit the Wakefield Food pantry and other Lions Club causes. If you have never been to a Contra Dance, no worries, all dances are taught! All ages are welcome, so come on down and enjoy the fun. Entrance is by donation, $6.00 suggested. There will be a 50/50 raffle as well. For more information visit the Greater Wakefield Lions Club Facebook page, or call 603-557-6770. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greater-Wakefield-NH-Lions-Club/156474074464610.
South Londonderry: Barn Dance and BBQ - Let's Celebrate 100 Years of the Green Mountain Club and kick up your heels with us to celebrate a century of Long Trail stewardship! BBQ at 6:00, Contra Dancing at 6:30. $10 admisison to the dance; $10 BBQ dinner (please sign up by July 12) at the Fancy Grade Farm Barn, South Londonderry. This party kicks off our End-to-End Relay Hike, a 30 day series of day hikes covering the entire length of the Long Trail. This is a great opportunity to trek a new part of the trail, or return to your favorite stretch with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Sign up is open! For Dinner and/or relay hike registration. Please contact gmcevents@greenmountainclub.org or call 802-244-7037 x24. Web site: http://www.greenmountainclub.org.
Springfield - Old Home Day - Squares: A dance is part of the annual festivities. Dance is at 7pm at the basketball court by the fire station weather permitting, Town Hall otherwise. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Springfield-NH-Annual-Old-Home-Day/108270114400.
Tamworth - Outing Club: Dances on various Saturdays at 8:00pm throughout the year at the Town House in Tamworth Village. Recommend that you call ahead to confirm dates. Web site: http://tamworthoutingclub.org/dances.html.
Tamworth - New Year's Eve: Dance at the Tamworth Town Hall on New Year's Eve at 7:30pm. Web site: http://www.laufman.org.
Tamworth - Town House: Tamworth now holds a monthly "Second Saturday" contradance, held from 7:30pm to 10pm at the Tamworth Town House, 27 Cleveland Hill Road in Tamworth Village. We also have a dance on New Year's Eve. Admission is $8 teens and adults; $3 kids 12 and under. Soft shoes only, please. For more info call 603-651-5800. Web site: http://tamworthoutingclub.org/dances.html.
Tamworth - K. A. Brett School Harvest Dinner and Dance: Sponsored by the Brett School PTA and the Tamworth Farmer’s Market, this free event features a potluck where local food is the theme. Brick-oven baked beans, stew and an apple crisp are provided. Sides, appetizers and casseroles are welcome. Dinner is followed by a family-friendly dance, easy and fun for all. Young children must be accompanied by adults onto the dance floor. Come to the dinner, the dance, or both to celebrate the Harvest and our Community!http://kabrett.weebly.com/.
Thornton - Sugar on Snow Dance Party: Sugar on snow from 5pm to 7pm and contra dancing from 7pm to 9pm. It's time to gather for the annual Thornton Sugar On Snow Dance Party. Location: Thornton, NH Elementary School, 1886 NH Route 175, Thornton, NH 03285. We will begin serving the sugar on snow, pickles, punch, coffee and donuts at 5 PM, with the dancing starting at 7:00 PM. Volunteer musicians are welcome as always. Asking price for the whole evening is $8/adult, $5/kid (not yet in high school), and 5 and under are free (with a maximum of $25/family). The money raised from this year's event will be split evenly between students participating in Destination Imagination and scholarships for a group of young local fiddle students to attend Maine Fiddle Camp this summer. Web site: https://www.sau48.org.
Wakefield: Dance from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at the Wakefield Opera House, Wakefield, NH. This event is hosted by the Wakefield Lions Club and is also a silent auction fundraiser. Entrance is by donation. Web site: None.
Wakefield - Lions Club: Dance starting at 7:30pm at the Wakefield Opera House, Wakefield, NH. This event is hosted by the Wakefield Lions Club. Entrance is by donation. Web site: None.
Warner: Dances on 4th Saturdays at the Warner Town Hall sponsored by the Warner Parks and Recreation Department. These dances are fun traditional dances that anyone can do. The dances have live musicians, and a caller who explains each dance. Dances start at 7:30pm and run until about 10 - 10:30. The admission is kept low to offer inexpensive, local entertainment. The money collected goes to pay the performers to come to Warner. Set up & cleanup is done by local volunteers to keep the costs down. $5 students/Seniors, $7 adults. Refreshments. Bring clean soft soled shoes Web site: http://jawsa.homestead.com/Contra7.html.
Warren - Moosilauke Ravine Lodge: There will be an all-are-welcome Contradance at the Moosilauke Ravine Lodge. Dinner is at 6:30 - call now to make your reservation 603 764 5858. Dancing to Follow. Contradancing is easy and all dances are taught. No Experience Necessary! Directions and info at - Web site: http://www.dartmouth.edu/~doc/moosilauke/ravinelodge/.
Webster - Squares: The Webster 4-H Steer Club is having their square dance at the Webster Town Hall from 7 pm to 10 pm. Admission is $7.00 for adults. There will be snacks and drinks to purchase. Let's support the 4-H Steer Club. It is always fun. Web site: None.
Wentworth - Squares: Traditional square dancing at the Wentworth Town Hall at the corner of East Side Road and Route 25, starting at 8:00pm on the 1st Friday of the month except for July and August. Admission is $7, children $4. Web site: None.
Westmoreland: Dance at the Westmoreland Town Hall, 780 Route 63, Westmoreland, NH 03467. Potluck at 6 PM. Costumes are welcome. Sliding Scale $7-10. Dance is from 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Web site: None.
Wilton - High Mowing Scholarship Fund: A Community Barn Dance (contras, squares) at High Mowing School from 7:30-10:00 p.m. All dancers and beginners welcome! Doors open at 7:00. Apple cider and desserts for sale. Tickets $5/person, Max. $15/ family. From Rt. 101 in Wilton take Abbott Hill Rd. south, at the top of hill enter High Mowing School driveway on the right, park up in the parking areas and dance will be in the Big Room in the Main Building. Proceeds to benefit High Mowing Scholarship Fund. We'd love to see you! Web site: http://www.highmowing.org/.
Wilton - Old Home Days: Dance at the Curtis Farm, 139 Curtis Farm, Wilton, NH 03086 starting at 6pm as part of the week-long series of activities. Web site: https://wiltonoldhomedays.com.
Wolfeboro - Great Waters Folk Festival: Day-long festival with guided jams, mini-concerts, a family barn dance, and culminating in a diverse evening main stage. Event held in late August. Web site: http://www.greatwaters.org/concerts/folk-festival.html.
Wolfeboro - New Year's Eve: Family dance is one of the activities during this afternoon and evening celebration. Web site: http://firstnight.wolfeboro.net.
Wolfeboro - Town Hall: Community Contra Dances Wolfeboro Town Hall - The Great Hall, 84 South Main St., Wolfeboro, NH, 03894 from 7pm to 10pm. Web site: https://galacommunity.org/events/.
Wolfeboro - Town Hall - New Year's Eve: Community Contra Dances Wolfeboro Town Hall - The Great Hall, 84 South Main St., Wolfeboro, NH, 03894 from 7pm to 9pm. Web site: https://galacommunity.org/events/.
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.