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 Oregon including dance camps and weekends along with other events in Oregon 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.
Ashland: Dances usually on 3rd Saturdays sponsored by Southern Oregon Contra Dance, at The Grove, 1195 East Main Street. Our principle endeavor is to provide monthly contra dances, usually on third Saturdays, September through May. Beginners' instruction 7:00 PM, Main dance 7:30-10:30. Regular dance Admission $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, $6 for students high school and older, free to others. Clean bodies and clothing are encouraged; perfume scents are discouraged. Email: info "at" socontra "dot" org - For more information call Gordon at 541 821-0997, or Lisa at 541 482-7751. Walk-Ins Welcome. Good For Groups. Good For Kids over 9 yo. Web site: http://socontra.org/.
Astoria: Dances at the Netel Grange, 90525 Logan Road south of Astoria. Dances are held from 8 until 11p.m. with a workshop at 7:30 to teach basics & improve style. No experience necessary - all dances are taught. Dances are easy to learn, vigorous and enjoyable. If you've never danced before, a Country Dance is a great way to start. All ages, singles, couples, families welcome. Admission: $8 (or pay what you can). Escorted children younger than 12 admitted free. Alcohol, smoke-free event. Refreshments are available. For more information call Craig Holt, 503-325-8207 Web site: http://www.bubbaguitar.com/netel/.
Astoria: Dances at the Astoria Arts and Movement Center, 342 10th St. The dance will start at 7 p.m. with a beginner’s lesson for those new to contra or folk dancing, and the event will run until 10 p.m. All ages are welcome. The entrance fee is a sliding scale of $5 to $10. And of course, you can give more to support the musicians, caller and the dance hall. For more information, contact Dave at 503-741-8412 or dpwamb@charter.net - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1271461922875329 or http://www.astoriaartsandmovement.com/.
Baker City: Old-time Dancing at the Crossroads Art Center, 2020 Auburn Avenue Baker City from 7pm to 9pm. More info: Richard, 503-560-9005 (in Baker City). Web site: http://www.neofs.us.
Banks - Ceili: Come dance at Shirley Hahn's spectacular barn, located on her family’s fourth generation homestead at 37290 NW Hahn Road, Banks, Oregon. This is a co-sponsored event between All Ireland Cultural Society and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Oregon. Both sets and céilí dances will be called. Admission $10 ($5 for students). Light refreshments will be provided or you may bring your own. Time: 7pm to 10pm. Web site: http://cceoregon.org.
Bend: Dances on the 2nd Saturday of the month, during the school year, at The Pine Forest Grange 63214 Boyd Acres Road, Bend. The dance begins at 7pm and ends at 9:30pm. $7 per person at the door. Web site: https://bendcontra.org/.
Bend - Squares - Bachelor Beauts: No experience needed. No cost to attend. No partner required. Families welcome. Come casual and comfortable. Location: Pine Forest Grange, 63214 Boyd Acres Road. RSVP appreciated to dance@bachelorbeauts.org - Web site: http://www.bachelorbeauts.org.
Brookings: Community Contra Dances held the third Friday of each month at the Pistol River Friendship Hall, 24252 Carpenterville Road, Brookings, OR 97415. Potluck, a quick lesson, and then dancing 'til we drop! NO EXPERIENCE is necessary. There will be a quick lesson at the beginning of each dance to bring newbies up to speed. Dances are held with a live band the third Friday of each month starting with a potluck @ 6 p.m. There will be a lesson @ 6:30 p.m. and the dance will be held from 7-10 p.m. Inexpensive beverages will be sold throughout the event. $5 per person is the suggested donation to assist in covering expenses. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/PistolRiverContraDance.
Coos Bay:The South Coast Folk Society holds a monthly dance on the first Saturday of the month (and some fifth Saturdays) at the Bay Area Senior Activity Center, 886 South Fourth St. (Fourth and Ingersoll) in Coos Bay from October through May. The dance is fun for the whole family – come alone or with friends; wear comfortable clothes and clean, soft-soled shoes. No experience or partner needed! The dance starts at 7:00 pm. Admission: Adults $7; Seniors (over 60) and full-time students with student ID card $6; SCFS members $5; Supervised children under 6 free. Web site: http://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com/.
Coos Bay - Turn Off the TV: The Driftwood Reading Council invites you to a dance as part of Turn off the TV/Screen-Free Activities at Madison Elementary School. The Community Barn Dance will be from 6:30-8:30 PM in the Madison Elementary Gym. People of all ages will enjoy the invigorating music and exercise, as well as the chance to get to know their neighbors. The event is free, but food donations for the Charleston Food Bank will be gratefully accepted. Madison Elementary School is located at 400 Madison Ave. in the Empire district of Coos Bay. Questions? Contact Mary-Margaret Stockert at 888-1218. Web site: None.
Coos Bay - Madison Elementary School: The Madison Elementary School and the Driftwood Reading Council invite you to a Community Barn Dance at 6:30 pm at Madison Elementary School 400 Madison Street Coos Bay (in the Empire District). Every year in recognition of "screen free week" (formerly "Turn Off Your TV Week"), Madison Elementary holds activities EVERY night of this. On Thursday, we dance! You want to play? Please be at the school by 6:00 pm to set up and run through tunes. Playing for kids is GREAT fun! We usually do a break in the middle of the dance where we gather the kids around the band and introduce them to each of the instruments being played. It's great fun (did I already say that?). If you're planning on playing in the open band May 11 at the grange, this will be a super opportunity to practice. Even if you're not playing in the open band, come play! Web site: None.
Coos Bay - 100 Years and Counting: Special contra dance at the Harding Learning Center, 755 S 7th Street, Coos Bay, OR from 7pm to 10pm. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students, or $20 per family. Refreshments will be available for purchase from the staff of the award-winning Marshfield Times student newspaper. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/817469234973690/.
Coos Bay - South Coast Folk Week: One of the CDSS Centennial Tour stops, with a week of dances, sessions, concerts and workshops. Web site: https://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com/cdss-tour/.
Corbett - Squares: Dance at the Columbia Grange #267, 37493 Grange Hall Road, Corbett OR 97019 from 7pm to 9pm. $7 grange members, $10 non-members. No one turned away for lack of funds. All welcome, no age or experience needed. Web site: http://www.columbiagrange267.org.
Corbett - Scandinavian - Sno-Ball: Annual winter event in December at Menucha Retreat and Conference Center (Corbett). Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org.
Corvallis: The Corvallis Folklore Society hosts a series of contra dances. All dances are open to the public and feature live music. Corvallis contra dances usually occur on the 1st and 3rd Saturday evenings of each month, September through June. (We take July and August off.) All CFS contra dance evenings feature live music (perhaps fiddle, guitar, bass, flute, drums, dulcimer, saxophone, accordion, concertina, bagpipes,...), begin with a "newcomer's session" at 7:30, run from 8 pm to 11 pm with an intermission, encourage newcomers to join the fun, draw dancers from teens to retirees, have a caller to "walk through" and call the dance sequences. Price is $8-10 sliding scale CFS members/students – $2off,; bikers/hikers -$1 off; 18 and under get in free! - "special" prices for some "special" dances). We suggest that dancers wear "cool, comfortable, casual clothes" and flat, soft-soled shoes. (Tennis or gym shoes are fine.) Please refrain from wearing fragrances, perfumes, and colognes. Some of our dancers have chemical sensitivities. Primary location is FCC Gatton Hall (First Congregational Church), 4515 West Hills Road, but other sites are used. Check site to confirm location. Web site: http://corvallisfolklore.org.
Corvallis - Beavergrass Bluegrass Festival: Annual bluegrass festival held in mid-August in Central Park. A bit of dancing. Web site: http://www.beavergrass.net/.
Corvallis - Contra Dance Weekend: including dances, workshops (dancing and music), etc. in mid-February in Corvallis. Advance registration recommended. Web site: http://CorvallisFolklore.org/ccw.
Corvallis - Oregon State University: Dance at the MU Ballroom at Oregon State University, sponsored by the OSU Swing and Blues Club and the Corvallis Folklore Society. The dance is from 8pm to 10pm and free. Please bring your friends and lets show the OSU campus a great dance. Feel free to bring light refreshments or food to share if desired. Please note: There will be NO potluck prior to this dance. For more information, please call 541-231-0008. Web site: http://corvallisfolklore.org.
Corvallis - New Year's Eve: Dance at FCC Gatton Hall (First Congregational Church), 4515 West Hills Road, from 8:00pm to 12:30am. Web site: http://corvallisfolklore.org.
Corvallis - Hambo Workshop: Hambo Workshop in Corvallis at Gatton Hall, 4515 SW West Hills Road from 2:30pm to 6:00pm. Cost: $10 per person ($15 after April 15th). This class is for beginners, or anyone who wants tips and practice opportunity with coaching. No partner is needed! The May 6th evening contra dance will feature several live HAMBOS to practice your skills! To sign up, please contact: John Scott: jcomingss@aol.com (503) 580-4989 or Jennifer Carlin: jenn_carlin@hotmail.com (541) 231-0008. Web site: http://corvallisfolklore.org.
Cottage Grove - Squares: Dance in Odd Fellows Hall, West Main Street, Cottage Grove, OR from 7pm to 10pm. Bring the kids and a giant grin to share with others. All dances will be taught, and it doesn't matter if you don't know anything. It doesn't matter if you don't have a partner. Come on down and we'll take care of you! (Free, but feel free to bring some change to tip the band and donate to these wonderful organization!) Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/2033354460213241/.
Creswell - Moveable Feet: Family and Community Dances in Creswell at various locations, days and times. Traditional and folk dances include international folk dances, circle dances, play-party dances, contra dances, mixers, and reels. Anyone with normal hearing and walking ability can do these dances. All ages are welcome (but 8-80 work out the best). Minors must be accompanied by an adult; they may not be dropped off and picked up later. No experience or partner is necessary. Our dances come from many world traditions. All dances are taught and prompted and we have a very high tolerance for mistakes, wrong turns, and general goof-ups! Having a good time is much more important than getting the steps right. Building community is at least as important as doing the dances. Quiet toys will be provided for young children, who will stay in the same room with the dancers. Some of our venues will be free, and others will charge rent. If the venue is free, the dance is free. If the venue charges rent, we will request (but not require) a small donation, probably $3/person or $7/family. When we have live music, we will also have a tip jar out for the musicians. Beyond those tips, they do not get paid. Web site: http://moveablefeet.weebly.com.
Dallas - Squares - Guthrie Park: Dances at 7pm-9:30pm, on the 2nd Saturday of every month September through May each year. Old-time community dance: squares, reels, big circle dances, with all dances taught. Admission is $5 for adults ages 13 and older. Kids under 12 are free. Family Rate is $15 per family of four or more (Immediate family members only please). Location: 4320 Kings Valley, Hwy Dallas, OR 97338 (three miles south of Dallas on the Kings Valley Highway). More info: truprice@gmail.com - Web site: http://www.guthriepark.org.
Enterprise: Wallowa County Old-time Dance with Live String Band and Caller will teach squares, circles, reels, contras, waltzes. No experience needed, beginners welcome and no partner or special clothing necessary. Finger foods/snacks welcome; coffee, tea and water provided. Time: 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm. Where: Enterprise Oddfellows Hall, 105 NE First Street Enterprise. Cost: $3 per, $5 couple, $10 family and under 12 years free. More info: Laura, 541-398-0800. Web site: or http://www.neofs.us.
Enterprise - Squares: Dance at Enterprise Oddfellows Hall, 105 NE First Street Enterprise, OR. 7pm? Web site: https://www.facebook.com/HokumHiFlyers.
Eugene: The Eugene Folklore Society hosts contradances at the Gym of the Dunn School (where Ridgeline Montessori School meets), 3411 Willamette Street, Eugene, OR 97405 usually on 2nd and 4th Saturdays through the school year. (Sept thru June) with a newcomers' session at 7:00pm and the dance running from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. All dances are open to the public. No Partner or experience needed! Families are Welcome! Please bring soft soled shoes that won't mark the floor. we have a sliding scale for admissions, $6 to $10 for members, $8 to $10 for non-members. Arrive by 7:00 PM and get $1 off admission. Students with ID get another $1 off. First time dancers can get a coupon for free admission to their next dance. When they turn in that coupon, they can receive a 50% off coupon for their next dance. Potluck dinners usually held at 6PM prior to most dances. Web site: http://eugenefolklore.org/index.php.
Eugene - Spencer Creek Grange: The dances are on various dates at 7pm. Admission is $6 for ages 12 and up and $3 for kids under 11. Live music and caller for traditional square dancing, waltzes, and line dancing. The Grange is located at 86013 Lorane Highway at the corner of McBeth Road. Web site: http://spencercreekgrange.org/activities/barn-dances/.
Eugene - Squares - University of Oregon: Dance at the Fir Room of Erb Memorial Union at the University of Oregon, 1228 University St, Eugene, OR 97403. Students $5.00, Public $7.00. No partner needed. Lesson starts at 7:30. Event goes from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Web site: http://www.uoregon.edu.
Eugene - Squares - WOW Hall: The W.O.W. Hall’s floor knows the stomp of a good square dance. All skill levels welcome. Free, Donations Welcome. Donations will support the Community Center for the Performing Arts’ historic preservation efforts of the W.O.W. Hall. Cost: $8 (or $5 need-a-break rate). Tickets available at the door. Location: 291 W. 8th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401. Web site: http://www.wowhall.org.
Eugene - Squares - Sam Bond's Garage: Dances at 9:30pm, 21+, $5, 407 Bond Street. Web site: http://www.sambonds.com/.
Eugene - Annual Pourparler Conference: The 2016 Pourparler Conference will be held in late September. Pourparler is a yearly gathering of dance and music educators from North America who are dedicated to teaching folk/ethnic/world/traditional dance in schools and/or community events. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.nfo-usa.org/.
Eugene - Squares - Willamette Valley Old-Time Social: There will be a square dance and jamming at the WOW hall on Friday, and all-day mini fest (concerts/jamming/workshops/square dancing) at the Vet’s club on Saturday, and an open-mike cabaret on Sunday at the Foundry. We are just in the beginning stages of planning the event, so feel free to contact me if you’d like to get involved. More details to follow…Stay tuned! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/MudCityOldTime/.
Eugene - Scandinavian - Sonja Lodge: Scandinavian Dance Lessons and 2nd and 4th Sundays, 2-4 pm at Sonja Lodge, 710 McKinley St, Eugene, OR 97402. Info Claire at culturaldirector@sonjalodge.org - Web site: http://sonjalodge.org/index.html.
Government Camp - Next Generation Dance Weekend: Youth-focused residential contra dance camp. Self-identified youth and youth-allied individuals welcome. We will not exclude any dancers due to age. We are a youth-organized and youth-focused event, and welcome attendees who promote our vision of empowering youth involvement in the folk community. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.nextgendancecamp.org.
Hillsboro: Dances at the Odd Fellows Lodge,267 East Main, Upstairs, Hillsboro, OR 97123 from 7:30pm to 10:00pm with a lesson at 7pm. This event is open to all ages, dance backgrounds, and experience. No partner is needed. We strive to have an inclusive and safe environment for all [insert all the demographics] peoples and encourage new dancers become a part of our community. Web site: http://hillsborocontra.hopto.org/.
Hood River: The Mid-Columbia Folklore Society sponsors dances during the school year months at the Rockford Grange, 4262 Barrett Drive. Hood River is about an hour east of Portland in the scenic Columbia Gorge. Our dances are family-oriented, no smoking. Beginners are encouraged and dances are taught. Children are always welcome at MCFS dances and reciprocity is extended to members of other folklore societies. Season Starts in October - 7 PM. Web site: http://community.gorge.net/mcfs/.
Hood River - Squares - Cultivate Oregon: A Family Friendly Community Fundraiser Event for Cultivate Oregon: Empowering Responsible Food and Farming from 4 PM - 10 PM, at the Rockford Grange #501, 4250 Barrett Dr, Hood River, Oregon 97031. $15-$20 sliding scale. 5Rhythms Dance 4:00pm-5:30pm; Dinner 5:30pm-6:30pm; Cultivate Oregon Presentation 6:30pm-7:00pm; Cacao Ceremony 7:00pm-7:30pm; Community Spiral Dance 7:30pm-8:00pm; Old Timey Square Dance 8:00pm-10:00pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/cultivateoregon/.
Joseph: Come to an old-time community Barn Dance. Squares, Circles, Reels, Contras, Waltzes with live string band and caller. Beginners welcome, all dances will be taught, and no partner or special clothing necessary. Dance from 7:00- 10:30 PM at 63327 Tenderfoot Valley Rd., Joseph, OR. Tenderfoot Valley Road is on the LEFT about 4.5 miles out of Joseph (going east toward Imnaha, AFTER Liberty Rd. and BEFORE Daggett Lane). Go 1.2 miles to the 2nd ranch on the right, watch for signs and a BIG BLUE BARN. Admission $5/person, under age 12 FREE. Snacks/drinks provided. For info call Laura Skovlin 541-398-0800. Web site: http://wvmusicalliance.org/old-time-community-dance/.
Joseph - Hurricane Creek Grange Hall: Come to an old-time community Barn Dance. Squares, Circles, Reels, Contras, Waltzes with live string band and caller. Beginners welcome, all dances will be taught, and no partner or special clothing necessary. Dance start at 7pm at the Hurricane Creek Grange, Hall, 63081 Hurricane Creed Road, Joseph (between Joseph and Enterprise). Admission $5/person, $10 per family, under age 12 FREE. Please bring a snack if possible. For info call Laura Skovlin 541-398-0800. Web site: http://wvmusicalliance.org/old-time-community-dance/ or https://www.facebook.com/Old-Time-Community-Dance-of-Wallowa-County-778041228901992/.
Klamath Falls: Dances at at the upstairs ballroom at 1010 Pine Street from 2:30pm to 6:00pm. Admission is $10 or $8 for students and seniors. For first-timers, a 45-minute instruction session will precede the open dance at 2:30. Volunteers are needed to help with setting up the facility and the instruction session and are asked to arrive by 2. For information or to volunteer, contact Robert or Gosha Sears at goshasears@yahoo.com. Web site: None.
La Grande - Saturday: The Northeast Oregon Folklore Society sponsors monthly community dances on the second Saturday of each month, September through June. Web site: http://www.neofs.us/.
La Grande - Friday: The Northeast Oregon Folklore Society sponsors monthly community dances on the third Friday of each month, September through June from 6:30pm to 9:00pm at the Art Center East, 1006 Penn Avenue. Web site: http://www.neofs.us/.
La Grande - Tuesday: The Northeast Oregon Folklore Society sponsors weekly folk dancing (Irish Set, International, Contra and English Country) every Tuesday evening at various locations, usually Art Center East, 1006 Penn Avenue, from 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm. No charge, but donations to cover the cost of providing the hall are gratefully accepted. Web site: http://www.neofs.us/.
La Grande - Spring Thaw: A Celebration of Traditional Dance and Music at various venues in La Grande in April. We hope you will come and share with us and each other your love and interest in traditional dance and dance music. Unlike many other dance festivals, this event is based largely on the shared talents of the participants attending. Workshop leaders, dance callers and musicians are primarily event attendees who wish to share their special knowledge and enthusiasm on specific dance or music topics. Web site: http://springthaw.neofs.us/.
La Grande - Waltz: Musicians leisurely enjoy sight reading beautiful waltzes while dancers enjoy sweeping about the newly restored dance floor at the historic Union Hotel. Time: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Where: Union Hotel, 326 N Main Street Union. Cost: No charge, but donations for the hall graciously accepted. More info: Carla, 541-663-0776. Web site: http://www.neofs.us/.
La Grande - Hurricane Creek Grange Hall Squares, circles, reels, contras and waltzes. All Dances Taught – Beginners welcome – No partner or special clothing needed. Time: 7:00 – 10:30 p.m. at the Hurricane Creek Grange Hall on Hurricane Creek Road between Enterprise and Joseph. Please bring a snack, if possible. Admission $3 or $5/couple, under age 12, FREE. For info call Laura Skovlin 541-398-0800. Web site: http://69.195.124.80/~wvmusica/old-time-community-dance/.
La Grande - SpringAlive: Weekend of dances, workshops, etc. for adults, children and families. Location: Willow Elementary School Gym, 1305 N Willow, La Grande and Art Center: at the Old Library, 1006 Penn Ave., La Grande. Web site: http://neofs.us.
La Grande - Country Folk School: Sessions on various topics at the Art Center in the Old Library, 1006 Penn Avenue La Grande. Cost: No charge; donations gratefully accepted. More info: Carla. 541-663-0776. Where: Art Center: At the Old Library, 1006 Penn Avenue La Grande. Cost: No charge; donations gratefully accepted. More info: Carla. 541-663-0776. Web site: http://neofs.us.
La Grande - New Year's Eve: New Year's Eve Party Join us to celebrate the end of the old year and the beginning of the new. Demonstrations and displays during the evening will highlight the efforts of the various Country Folk School classes. Time: 9:00 pm to midnight. Where: Art Center: At the Old Library, 1006 Penn Avenue La Grande. Cost: Free, but donations gratefully accepted. More info: Carla, 541-633-0776. Web site: http://neofs.us.
La Grande - English Country Dance Class: Take part in what may be the world's longest running dance craze; 300+ years and counting. Dance like it's 1651; stately, playful, dreamy, joyous.. all these and more. Gala ball on March 24th. Register with Art Center East, www.artcentereast.org or 541-624-2800. Time: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm; Where: Art Center East, 1006 Penn Avenue La Grande; Cost: $35 for 10 classes and ball. ($25 for Art Center or Trad-Live! members). More info: Mark, 541-962-9355. Web site: http://neofs.us.
La Grande - Contra Dance Class: Contra Dancing Class - Learn Contra dancing from the ground up. This moderately vigorous dance form is easy to learn, highly social, and can open you to a lifetime of enjoyment. Four week-night class sessions will get you familiar with the basic moves, and allow you to fully participate in Contra dances here and everywhere. Class fee includes admission to SpringAlive Festival Dance. Lessons are from 6pm to 7:30pm at the Art Center East, 1006 Penn Avenue, La Grande. Cost: $25 for 4 classes and SpringAlive Fesival Dance ($20 for Art Center or Trad-Live! members) More info: Mark, 541-962-9355. Web site: http://neofs.us.
La Grande - Family: Families of school age children are invited to a special dance just for them. Live calling and music Don't miss this tremendously fun event. Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Where: Willow School Gymnasium, 1305 N Willow Street La Grande. Cost: No charge. More info: Carla, 541-663-0776. Web site: http://neofs.us.
Lincoln City - Westwind Weekend Music and Dance Camp: Volunteer-led weekend. Expect two evenings of dance, including family dances, contra, Scandinavian, and swing. Expect a campers' concert Saturday night, music jams all day and into the night (Irish, old-time, swing and more). And take plenty of time to walk on the beach, dig in the sand, and hike to the high meadow. Register in advance. Web site: http://westwindweekend.org/.
Lostine: Dances at the South Fork Grange in Lostine, upstairs on Main St. (Hwy. 82). Soup Nook serving light dinner before the dance – Pies and other goodies for sale too! Squares – Circles – Reels – Contras – Waltzes; All dances taught – Beginners welcome! No partner or special clothing needed. Please bring a snack, if possible. Admission $3 or $5/couple, under age 12, FREE! For info call Laura at 541-398-0800. Web site: http://wvmusicalliance.org/old-time-community-dance/.
Medford: The Ashland Folk Music Club sponsors dances on first Saturdays at the Rogue Valley Square Dance Center, 3377 Table Rock Road. Beginners' instruction 7:00 PM. Main dance 7:30-10:30 PM. Admission: $6 AFMC members, $8 general public, $5 students high school and older. Younger children free. Annual membership $10 for singles, $15 for families. Dances are suitable for older children through seniors. All dances are taught. Come alone or with a partner. Wear soft soled, non-marking shoes and comfortable clothing. Perfume scents are discouraged. No smoking on school property. Non-dancing children must be supervised by a responsible teen or adult. For more information call Gordon at 541 488-0679, or email ashlandfolk@attglobal.net. Web site: http://www.kluberg.com/ashland.html.
Milton-Freewater - Timberrib - New Year's Eve: Special dance sponsored by the Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music at The Timberrib, 84847 Winesap Rd., Milton-Freewater, Oregon. We will begin with a delicious POT LUCK DINNER at 7:30 p.m. Please bring a dish of your liking to share. CONTRA DANCING will follow at 8:30-ish. Join us for a toast to the old and departed and a bright new future for the next year at midnight. Dress is what you will, although some do like to dress a little more formal than usual. Contras, squares, and other dances will be taught. Note: Please no lug boots or narrow heel shoes on the dance floor. Web site: http://fam.bmi.net/.
Monmouth - Squares - Polk County Folklife Festival: Music and dance performances including a square dance are part of this one-day event. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/PolkCountyFolklife/.
Nehalem: Dances, usually on 4th Saturdays at the North County Recreation District Gym, 36155 9th St. (9th & B St.) . Lesson from 7:30pm to 8:00pm. Dance from 8:00pm to 10:30pm. All dance events are not-for-profit. Moneys go to making dances happen. All dances $5.00 unless otherwise noted. Moneys go to cover expenses and would not happen without the efforts contributed by many. Casual dress, light loose clothes are good; low or no heels, leather soled shoes (or basketball or jazz shoes). No partners needed. Bring a hankie, you'll need it. Scents, perfumes and deodorants are discouraged, out of respect to those with allergies and/or who are chemical-sensitive. Smoke- and alcohol-free. The contra dances are always to live music and with a caller. If you have not done these dances before, please make sure to come for the lessons! Web site: http://twowaltzers.com/Dance_Schedule.html.
Nehalem - Waltzes: Dances, usually on 2nd Saturdays at the North County Recreation District Gym, 36155 9th St. (9th & B St.) Lesson from 7:30pm to 8:00pm. Dance from 8:00pm to 10:30pm. The Wild Waltz dances are usually to recorded music and features waltzes, latin dances, rock'n'roll, zydeco and more. All dance events are not-for-profit. Moneys go to making dances happen. All dances $5.00 unless otherwise noted. Moneys go to cover expenses and would not happen without the efforts contributed by many. Casual dress, light loose clothes are good; low or no heels, leather soled shoes (or basketball or jazz shoes). No partners needed. Bring a hankie, you'll need it. Scents, perfumes and deodorants are discouraged, out of respect to those with allergies and/or who are chemical-sensitive. Smoke- and alcohol-free. The contra dances are always to live music and with a caller. If you have not done these dances before, please make sure to come for the lessons! Web site: http://twowaltzers.com/Dance_Schedule.html.
Nehalem - White Clover Grange: Contra dance at the White Clover Grange, 36585 Highway 53, Nehalem, Oregon 97131. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and dancing will continue until 10:00 with recorded music. Callers will guide you through the patterns and provide instruction during the first half hour. This is an all-ages, no alcohol event. The $5 admission per person benefits ongoing maintenance of the Grange Hall, located at 36585 Hwy 53, about 2 miles east of Hwy 101, and landmarked by a humorous cow sculpture. For more information, contact Grange Master Fred Lackaff at 503-368-9464. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/whiteclovergrange/.
Newberg - 3rd Wednesday: Dance at the Chehalem Cultural Center, 415 East Sheridan Street, Newberg, Oregon, 97132 on the 3rd Wednesday of each month with a lesson at 7pm; dance 7:30-10pm. General $8, Over 65 and Chehalem Cultural Center members $7, Students $5; Children under 12 free; $1 off general admission before 7:00pm. Web site: http://www.chehalemculturalcenter.org/ (check under performances and events.
Newport: The Corvallis Folklore Society hosts a series of contra dances in Newport at the Newport High School, West Gym, 322 NE Eads Street or the Senior Center, 20 SE Second Street (opposite the Rec. Center) on the 5th Saturday of the month (so, roughly four times a year). All CFS contra dance evenings feature live music (perhaps fiddle, guitar, bass, flute, drums, dulcimer, saxophone, accordion, concertina, bagpipes,...), begin with a "newcomer's session" at 7:30, run from 8 pm to 11 pm with an intermission, encourage newcomers to join the fun, draw dancers from teens to retirees, have a caller to "walk through" and call the dance sequences, charge $7 admission at the door ("special" prices for some "special" dances). We suggest that dancers wear "cool, comfortable, casual clothes" and flat, soft-soled shoes. (Tennis or gym shoes are fine.) Please refrain from wearing fragrances, perfumes, and colognes. Some of our dancers have chemical sensitivities. Check site to confirm location. Web site: http://cfs.peak.org/dance/.
North Bend - Musicians' Workshop: Workshop for all acoustic players; North Bend Public Library 2800 Sherman in North Bend at 3:30 pm. Learn a new tune and work on rhythm and musicality in this 90-minute workshop for all acoustic musicians. Suggested donation: $35–45 with all proceeds going to Tashina and Simon; Call 541-808-3507 to pre-register. Web site: http://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com/.
North Bend - Senior Center: Dances at the North Bend Senior Center, 1470 Airport Ln, North Bend, OR 97459. Admission: Adults $7, Seniors (over 60) $6, SCFS members and military $5, Students are always FREE, Supervised children under 6 free. Contra dancing is fun for the whole family – come alone or with friends; wear comfortable clothes and clean, soft-soled shoes. No experience or partner needed! Web site: http://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com/.
North Bend - Housing Authority: "Chestnuts" Contra Dance at 7 pm at the North Bend Housing Authority, 1700 Monroe Street, North Bend. Program of American contras of the 1800s. No partner or experience needed. Or come and enjoy the live music. Donation. Web site: None.
North Bend - Monday Night Trad Dance: Traditional dancing for all ages, all levels. All dances taught, no partner needed. FREE. Circlaes, squares, line dances, mixers. Live Music, come to play, come to dance, bring a friend. Time: 7 PM - 8:45 PM. Location: North Bend - Coos Curry Housing Authority, 1700 Monroe St, North Bend, Oregon 97459
Oakland - Kellogg Grange: Dance at the Kellogg Grange #811, 18037 Highway 138 W, Oakland, Oregon 97462. No prior knowledge or experience is needed. You do not need a partner to dance. Refreshments will be provided for a donation. Tickets can be purchased before the event with $6 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. For information call or text David Madison at 541-505-4014. The email is davidmadison1@yahoo.com - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/2385633711725577.
Oakridge - West Cascades Fiddle Camp and Workshop: Jamming, classes, workshops, performances and a little dancing during this four day camp in July. Register in advance. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/WCFCW/.
Oregon City - Jump for Joy Farm Barn Dance and Open House: Event from Noon to 4pm. This event is FREE, open to the public, and requires no registration. Location: Jump for Joy Farm, LLC, 15898A South Springwater Rd Oregon City, OR 97045. Dance is from 2pm to 4pm. All are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Web site: http://jump4joyfarm.com.
Oregon City - Farm to City: Tour the Wheeler Tree farm and stretch out in the yard with a yoga class and meditation accompanied by live traditional Kirtan music. Following yoga, nourish your body with a farm to fork meal grown by a collaboration of local farmers and tap your toes to local musicians! Events start at 3pm, dinner and dancing at 6pm. The Farm to Yoga Event will help raise funds for Soham Yoga. Funds will go toward a physical location (currently we co-share a space with the marvelous Denim Salvage), and starting community outreach programs at local hospitals, youth centers, transitional housing, the women’s shelter, etc. Location: Wheeler Tree Farm, 19566 Central Point Road, Oregon City, Oregon. Web site: http://www.sohamyogapdx.com.
Pendleton: Dances at the Pendleton Center for the Arts, 214 N. Main St. Dance from 7pm to 9pm. $8 per person, $15 per couple. Web site: http://pendletoncontradance.org/ or http://www.pendletonarts.org or https://www.facebook.com/PendletonContraDancers/.
Philomath - Squares: Dance at The Independent Community Center, 31615 Fern Road, Philomath OR. Admission is $7. Family friendly. Web site: http://www.mudcityoldtime.org.
Portland - 2nd, 4th, 5th Saturday: The Portland Country Dance Community sponsors dances on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Saturday of the month at the Fulton Community Center, 68 SW Miles Street. Beginner's session 7:30-8:00pm; Dance 8:00-11:00pm. Must wear shoes in this venue. Admission: Sliding Scale $6-$15. Web site: http://www.portlandcountrydance.org.
Portland - Family Dance: The Portland Country Dance Community sponsors family dances on various dates at the Fulton Community Center, 68 SW Miles Street. Dance usually goes from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with a potluck after the dance. There may be a regular dance after the potluck. Must wear shoes in this venue. $6 per adult, $5 per child, $20 maximum per family. Web site: http://www.portlandcountrydance.org.
Portland - 1st Saturday: Dances (not sponsored by the Portland County Dance Community) at the Fulton Community Center, 68 SW Miles Street. Beginner's session 7:30-8:00pm; Dance 8:00-11:00pm. Must wear shoes in this venue. Admission: Admission: $8, $6 - Students. Web site: http://www.portlandcountrydance.org.
Portland - 3rd Saturday: Dances sponsored by band, Jigsaw at the Fulton Community Center, 68 SW Miles Street. Beginner's session 7:30-8:00pm; Dance 8:00-11:00pm. Must wear shoes in this venue. Admission: $8, $6 - Students and Seniors. Web site: http://www.portlandcountrydance.org.
Portland - 1st Wednesday: The band, Joyride, sponsors dances on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Polish Hall, 3832 N. Interstate Ave. (use side door), from 7:30pm to 10:00pm from September to June. Admission: $6-$15 sliding scale admission. This is a fragrance-free event. Please avoid using perfumes, colognes, etc. Web site: http://joyride.erikweberg.com/.
Portland - Pickathon: Indie-Roots Music festival. More than 35 bands on 5 stages and thousands of neighborly festival goers. Camping, hiking and a sustainability ethic situated among Oregon's doug firs on an 80 acre wonderland just 20 minutes from Portland, OR. Happens in early August. Dancing is mostly, if not all, squares. Web site: http://www.pickathon.com.
Portland - Raindance Weekend: An urban contra dance weekend in late April/early May. Register in advance for a discount. Web site: http://www.portlandraindance.org/.
Portland - Pickathon: Indie-Roots Music festival. More than 35 bands on 5 stages and thousands of neighborly festival goers. Camping, hiking and a sustainability ethic situated among Oregon's doug firs on an 80 acre wonderland just 20 minutes from Portland, OR. Happens in early August. Dancing is mostly, if not all, squares. Web site: http://www.pickathon.com.
Portland - Megaband Dance: Annual dance held on the 2nd Saturday in March. The all-volunteer musicians of the Megaband come from all levels of skill - from near beginner to professional. The Megaband welcomes applications from anyone playing an acoustic instrument who is willing to attend all the rehearsals and play with enthusiasm. Proceeds of the Megaband Benefit Dance support scholarships for PCDC dancers and musicians. Web site: http://www.portlandmegaband.com/.
Portland - Old-Time Music Gathering: The Portland Oregon Old-Time Music Gathering is a grassroots volunteer-run festival that aims to celebrate and enrich the community of traditional old-time Appalachian style stringband musicians. We wish to create an environment where the music is as meaningful as it is when we gather to swap tunes and play in a friend's living room or meet to play at a campsite during a summer festival. As such, we feel that it is important to keep the event non-profit and volunteer run; whether we are taking tickets, sweeping the floor, organizing an event, or playing music for a concert; we are all volunteers contributing to make this thing happen. Occurs in mid-January at a number of venues including concerts and some dancing (mostly squares). Web site: http://bubbaguitar.com/gathering/.
Portland - Raindance Sunday Night Open Dance: Location: 111 NE 11th Street, Portland OR. Web site: http://www.portlandraindance.org.
Portland - Squares - In Other Words - Queer: Monthly Queer Square Dances in Portland, Oregon - Every first Wednesday at In Other Words (Killingsworth @ Williams) from 7-9 pm. Dancers can get wild and silly in a warm setting that ain't heteronormative. No experience necessary. All dances and moves are taught gradually through the night. It is a good idea for your first dance or two come within the first hour, as the night progresses the review of previously taught moves becomes brief. No need to get dressed up...but please feel free to get gussied up in your favorite western wear, vintage items, boots or dancing shoes. Web site: http://facebook.com/q.sq.dance.
Portland - Squares - Gender Free: No experience necessary! All dances are taught right before dancing. Please consider coming early if this is your first Square Dance. $7 (Sliding scale available/No Maximum). All Ages. Beverages For Sale. Portland is one of a handful of cities that support a Weekly Square Dance and is Mixing it up with a "Gender Free Night". The Portland Old-Time Square Dance scene has long time been a queer friendly community, this dance night will be a more explicit night to have the weekly dance even more comfortable for our LGBTQIA etc. community. Most dances will be free from "gents" and "ladies" language. I hope it is a fun night for everyone! Location: Village Ballroom, 700 Northeast Dekum Street, Portland, OR 97211. Time: 7pm-9pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/q.sq.dance.
Portland - Squares - Sundays: We are a volunteer-organized monthly square dance in Portland, OR. This is not your grandparents' square dance! You don't need special training or fancy clothes. Just come on out to meet people, dance, enjoy great music, and have a drink. Admission is on a sliding scale from $7 to $15. All ages welcome, no experience required. The dance is usually held the Village Ballroom, 700 NE Dekum Street from 7pm to 10pm, but occasionally moves to Velo Cult. Always friendly and welcoming to all. Web site: http://bubbaguitar.com/essd/.
Portland - Squares - Wednesday: We are a volunteer-organized weekly square dance in Portland, OR. This is not your grandparents' square dance! You don't need special training or fancy clothes. Just come on out to meet people, dance, enjoy great music, and have a drink. The cost is an affordable $7: sliding scale, no maximum. All ages welcome, no experience required. The dance is usually held the Village Ballroom, 700 NE Dekum Street from 7pm to 9pm, but occasionally moves to Velo Cult. On the last Wednesday of every month, the dance callers use gender-neutral instructions, avoiding words like "ladies" and "gents." But the dance is always friendly and welcoming to all. Web site: http://bubbaguitar.com/essd/.
Portland - Squares - 3rd Sunday: We are a volunteer-organized monthly square dance in Portland, OR. This is not your grandparents' square dance! You don't need special training or fancy clothes. Just come on out to meet people, dance, enjoy great music, and have a drink. The cost is an affordable $7: sliding scale, no maximum. All ages welcome, no experience required. The dance is usually held the Village Ballroom, 700 NE Dekum Street from 7pm to 9pm, but occasionally moves to Velo Cult. Web site: http://bubbaguitar.com/essd/.
Portland - Sauvie Island Center Benefit: Benefit is 5:30pm - 8:00pm at the Sauvie Island Center, 13605 NW Howell Park Road (Sauvie Island) Portland, OR. Our annual summer bash is going to be bigger and better than ever! Guests will enjoy a summer barbecue with all the fixins' courtesy of our sponsor Bon Appetit. Back by popular demand, a bluegrass band and square dance caller will be on hand for a lively evening of do-si-do fun. Our silent auction will feature gift certificates from Portland's favorite businesses and restaurants. So grab your checkbook and a picnic blanket and get ready for a beautiful summer evening at the Sauvie Island Center. Tickets are $15 for individuals and $40 for families, but increase to $20 for individuals and $50 for families the week of the event. For more information, or to purchase tickets visit. Web site: http://www.sauvieislandcenter.org.
Portland - Special: Dances on various nights, venues, etc. Web site: None.
Portland - Squares - Books 2 Prisoners Benefit: Live Music! And food! All for a great cause - PDX Books to Prisoners. PDX Books To Prisoners is an all-volunteer collective working to distribute books free of charge to prisoners. We are dedicated to offering people behind bars the opportunities for self-empowerment, ...education, and entertainment that reading provides. Right now we have dozens of packages of books wrapped and addressed, but no money for postage :( - So come on down and get wild and silly in a warm setting that ain't heternormative. Everyone invited - queers, non-queers and the like. No experience necessary. All dances and moves are taught gradually through the night. $5-$10 suggested donation! no one turned away for lack of funds. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/258466774213415/.
Portland - Squares - Velo Cult: Dance at Velo Cult, 1969 NE 42nd Ave, 503-922-2012, starting at 7pm. $7/sliding scale. Web site: http://velocult.com.
Portland - Scandinavian - Summer Sessions: Open request dancing from 7:30pm to 10:00pm at the Scandinavian Heritage Foundation, 8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland, OR 97223. On-site parking available. Everyone is welcome! no partner necessary. Please wear indoor dance shoes to protect the new floor. Admission is $4 per person or yearly membership is $50 for the dance year - a great deal! We dance at. Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org.
Portland - Scandinavian - Lessons: Most Mondays except for holidays. Warm up dancing from 7:00pm to 7:30pm, Lessons from 7:30pm to 8:30pm. Open request dancing from 8:30pm to 10:00pm. Lessons are from 7:30 to 8:30 most Mondays. Admission is $4 per person or yearly membership is $50 for the dance year - a great deal! Location: The Scandinavian Heritage Foundation, 8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland, OR 97223. Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org.
Portland - Scandinavian - Sno-Ball: Annual winter event in December at Mazama Lodge (Government Camp). Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org.
Portland - Scandinavian - Knut Dance: Come help toss the old tree out, with lively Scandinavian folk dance and live music! Wear you Scandinavian costume if you have one, and bring treats to share for this annual festive event! Scandinavian Heritage Foundation/Nordia House, 8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland, OR 97223. from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. NR and Leikarringen members: FREE!; Non-members: $12; Families: 2 adult fees; Listening only: $5. Folk costumes welcome. Bring finger-foods to share. Everyone is welcome. Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org.
Portland - Waltz - Monday: Dancing every Monday night at 3300 SE Woodward St, Portland, OR 97202. Mondays begin with a lesson from 8 - 8:30pm highlighting a particular area of waltz while focusing on connection to ones partner and to the music. Open dancing from 8:30 - 10:30. $8 for the evening. Web site: http://www.lenorasballroom.com.
Portland - Waltz - Monday: Dancing every Monday night at Lenoras Ballroom (615 SE Alder, Portland, OR). This is a friendly and informal event. The floor is not too crowded. The money jar ($5) is up front by the water jug. There are usually snacks (and snack contributions are most welcome). Doors open at 8:30, and the last waltz is at 10:30. Recorded music (quite varied) except for the last Monday of the month, when we get live music courtesy of the Waltz Jam. Web site: http://randomwaltz.org/.
Portland - Waltz - Tuesday: Dancing every Tuesday night at Dance With Joy Studios (7981 SE 17th Ave). This is a friendly and informal event. The floor is not too crowded. The money jar ($5) is up front. There are usually snacks (and snack contributions are most welcome). Doors open at 7:30, and the last waltz is at 10:00. Recorded music (quite varied). Web site: http://randomwaltz.org/.
Portland - Waltz - Monday - Waltz Jam: Dancing every Monday night at Lenoras Ballroom (615 SE Alder, Portland, OR), but with the Waltz Jam: A chance to get together and play waltzes (and some other music). It's the last Monday of every month, in conjunction with the Monday Night Waltz: same place (Lenora’s Ballroom (615 SE Alder)), same time (doors open 8:30), same $5 (money jar up front). A friendly group - everyone is very welcome. Or dance! Authentic live music (not that polished recorded stuff). Doors open at 8:30, and the last waltz is at 10:30. Web site: http://randomwaltz.org/.
Portland - Waltz - Sunday - Scandiecletic: We have had the Norse Hall Ballroom pretty much every sunday at about the same hours as waltzeclectic--10am to 2pm, unless a waltzeclectic event conflicts with it, or some major dancing event takes over Norse Hall for the weekend--such as the tangofest. The scheduling policy is pretty straightforward: the plan is to make sure we can do some kind of vintage waltz at Norse Hall every sunday in the early afternoon, if possible, from now on. Catering to beginning waltzers from 10am to 11am, open practicum or specialized workshops from 11am to 2:30pm. Cost is free for members of Grieg Lodge, 4 dollars otherwise. Because of the new security arrangements at Norse Hall, to get in for the practicum, call 503-724-3097. Ringing the doorbell has a low probability of being heard. Web site: http://scandieclectic.pbworks.com/w/page/60027219/Scandi-eclectic.
Portland - Waltz - Thursday - Waltz Eclectic: Every Thursday from 7:30pm to 10:30pm at Rose City Studios, 1420 NW 17th Ave. Cost: $10. All styles of waltz plus an eclectic mix of other dance music. All ages, all levels. Everyone welcome. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Sunday - Waltz and Brunch: Location: Norse Hall, 111 NE 11th St. Cost: $12 for lesson and dance, $10- Dance only. Lesson: 10:30 - 11:30 am. Dance: 11:30-2:30 pm/ Sunday Waltz Brunch and Dance. 10:30 to 11:30 Beginners Lesson. 11:30 to 2:30pm: Eclectic Dance music djed. The music we play is a ballroom-like mix of contemporary dance styles: a number of varieties waltz and waltz tempos, swing both east and west coast, two steps, latin and music that you can do both blues and tango style dancing to. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Ball: Lesson: 7:30; Dance: 8:30 - 11:30pm Live Music, breaks DJ'ed music. Cost: $20 dance and lesson, $15 for dance only,. Norse Hall, 111 NE 11th Ave, Portland. Main Ballroom with open bar and lounge. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Evenings: Events are at the Norse Hall, 111 NE 11th St, Portland. Cost: $12 for dance. Various hours Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Dancing Under the Stars: Dance is from 7pm to 10pm at Director Park, SW Park and Yamhill. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Waltz - New Year's Eve: Details to come. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Square and Contra Dance Callers Workshops: Workshops on Saturday April 5 at Pacific Crest School: 10-12 Contra dance calling for square dance callers workshop - this workshop idea follows up on a series of informal sessions that Bill led to encourage square dance callers to learn New England contras; 12-1 Brown bag lunch, bring a treat to share; 1-3 Square dance calling repertoire workshop - Susan will help callers extend their repertoire of figures that are easy to learn and fun to dance. Sunday April 6 at the Village Ballroom: 4-6 Beginning square dance calling workshop - absolutely no experience necessary! 6-7 Dinner break at Woodlawn eatery of your choice; 7-9 Every Sunday Square Dance with Susan Michaels calling and the Pork Belly Futures playing. Costs for participants: Cost for each 2-hour workshop is $10-30 on a sliding scale with no one turned away for lack of funds, no prepayment necessary. Participating as a "guinea pig" dancer is free - that is, free of charge and dancers are free to come and go for any part or all of the workshops. Contras are $9 ($7 for PCDC members). The Every Sunday Square Dance is $7 sliding scale (no maximum). RSVP for workshops here. Contact Amy Hofer amyrhofer@gmail.com for more information. Web site: None.
Portland - Scandinavian - Norske Rundddansere - Monday Dances: Monday dances are from 7-10 pm September through May. These dances include a free lesson from 7:30 to 8:30. Monday dances during summer start at 7:30 and do not include lessons. Admission is $5 per person or yearly membership is $60 for the 2015-2016 dance year - a great deal! We dance at Nordia House, 8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland. Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org/.
Portland - Contra Melodies by Ear: Music workshops at 1014 SE 50th from 7pm to 9pm. Web site: http://portlandcountrydance.org.
Portland - Hambo Fest: Join us for our quarterly Hambo Fest - a night of Hambo lessons - Sweden's National folk dance! We will also teach variations on the Hambo, plus easy mixers for everyone to enjoy. Sponsored by Norske Runddansere, Scandinavian Folkdance, Portland. Location: Nordia House, 8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland. Warm-up 7:00-7:30pm, 7:30-8:30pm Hambo lessons, 8:30-10:00pm Open dance with lots of Hambos and easy mixers. Everyone is welcome! No partner necessary. $4 drop-ins, Under 30 free. Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org/.
Portland - Norse Runddansere Birthday Ball: Norske Runddansere's annual Birthday Ball. A festive occasion with live music and spirited Scandinavian folk dance! Featuring live music. Time: 7:30-10:00 pm. Location: Nordia House, 8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland. Lively mixers and couples dances. No partner necessary. Scandinavian or festive attire encouraged. Bring finger foods or drinks to share. We will not have our regular teaching this night - join us on another Monday for lessons. Please bring separate indoor dancing shoes.. NR and Leikarringen members FREE! Non-members $12, Families = 2 adult fees, Listeners $5. Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org/.
Portland - Squares - Sewing Seeds: Gender neutral square dance as part of this two-day event. Location: Annares Infoshop and Community Space, 7515 North Alma Blvd. 7-9 pm. Web site: http://anarresinfoshop.tumblr.com/.
Portland - Squares - St. John's Bizarre: Creates a one-day for neighbors and friends to celebrate our community. We hope to display all that our community has to offer. The Bizarre is a showcase of the unique and eclectic character of North Portland. Included is local music, street performers, a vendor's market, sausage, pizza, a Bier Garten, kids art activities, and a close proximity to all the wonderful business located in our town center. Includes a square dance. Web site: http://stjohnsbizarre.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Classes - Laurelhurst Club: Series of cross-step waltz classes on Mondays at the Laurelhurst Club, 3721 SE Ankeny St., 6:15 - 7:00 pm Beginning $70; 6:45 - 7:30 pm Beginning Plus $70; 6:15 - 7:30 pm; Combo $110. Beginning Plus class for dancers comfortable with Beginning Material. Web site: http://www.connecttodance.com/laurelhurst-club.php.
Portland - Waltz - Classes - Polish Hall: Series of waltz classes on Tuesdays at the Polish Hall, 3832 N. Interstate Avenue. 6:00 - 7:00 pm $90 - Key Moves of Cross-Step Waltz - New material from previous session. Nightclub Two-Step (Tuesday) - 7:00 - 8:00 pm Intermediate $90 - Beautiful variations to enjoy!; Waltz: New Skills, New Moves (Tuesday) - 8:00 - 8:50 pm Intermediate $75 - 8:30 - 9:30 pm Advanced $80 - 8:00 - 9:30 pm Combo Int and Adv $125 Interesting and fun variations. Web site: http://www.connecttodance.com/adult-classes.php.
Portland - Squares - Friends of Family Farmers: Dance at Holocene Portland, 1001 SE Morrison St., Portland, OR 97214 United States from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Web site: http://www.friendsoffamilyfarmers.org.
Portland - Waltz - Lesson - Lenora's: Variety of classes on different dates and times at Lenora's Ballroom (615 SE Alder, Portland, OR). Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Dance Weekend: Two-day event with workshops, dances, and presentations. Register in advance for a discount. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Dare to Be Square West: A weekend of square dance & music workshops, dancing, jamming, and tons of fun! Our mission is to promote and preserve traditional square dancing. Held in early November. Some events require registration in advance. Web site: http://www.daretobesquarewest.org/Dare_to_be_Square_West/Home.html.
Portland - Techno Contra - Wayfinding Academy: Dances at the Wayfinding Academy, 8010 N. Charleston Ave., Portland, Oregon 97203 from 6:30pm to 10:00pm. Bring $7-10. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1716440711958372/.
Portland - Norse Runddansere Harvest Dance: Norske Runddansere's annual Harvest Dance. Price: $5 listening, $12 dancing non-members, families = 2 adult fees, NR and Leikarringen members FREE! Time: 7:30-10 pm at Nordia House, 8800 SW Oleson Rd., Portland, OR 97223. Wear you Scandinavian or Halloween costume if you have one, and bring treats to share for this annual festive event! Please wear indoor soft-soled shoes to protect the dance floor. Everyone welcome! Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org/.
Portland - Squares - Church of the Musical Redemption: Concert and dance at the Church of the Musical Redemption, 8325 N Central St, Portland, OR 97203-3702 from 6:30 PM - 10 PM. Suggested Donation: TBD. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/198336557424953/.
Portland - Scandinavian - Hambo Class: Hambo Lessons from 7:00-10:00 pm at Nordia House, (8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland OR 97223). Join Norske Runddansere to learn the Hambo, Sweden's National Dance. Warm up 7:00-7:30, Lesson 7:30-8:30, then dance the Hambo and other easy mixers until 10 pm. MContact: Newgards (503) 636–7509 or vj_newgard@yahoo.com - Website: www.norskerunddansere.org - Web site: http://www.norskerunddansere.org.
Portland - PDX Contra Remix: Awesome gender-free dancing. No partner is necessary. Some dance experience recommended but not necessary. A willingness to mess up is required. So is taking care of yourself and others as best you can. Our goal is for these dances to be POC & LGBTQIA safe events. This means bigotry of any kind is not tolerated. Second Sundays, September through May at the Wayfinding Academy @ 8010 N Charleston Ave, Portland, OR 97203. 6:30pm community welcome and lesson | dance until 10. $6 - $15 sliding scale. or ask about volunteering. Web site: https://contraremix.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Dance Eclectic - Workshop: Workshop at Rose City Studio, 1420 NW 17th Ave., Suite 88, Portland, Oregon 97209 from 12 PM – 4:15 PM PDT. Web site: http://portlanddanceeclectic.com/.
Portland - Janie's Jumpstart Weekend Old Time Music Camp: An intensive weekend for An intensive fun weekend for Old Time Musicians. Small classes (8 students per instructor) with amazing teachers and musicians, delicious food, hours of jamming and a whole lot of fun! No dance listed. Web site: http://www.janiesjumpstart.com/.
Portland - Waltz - Peninsula Park Rose Garden: Dance at the Peninsula Park Rose Garden, 700 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217 at 5pm. Be prepared to play and dance on shady grass lanes surrounded by roses. This event is free and open to all who love to play and dance to waltz music. Web site: http://randomwaltz.org/.
Portland - Rose City Dance-a-Rama: An in-town dance weekend with Wild Asparagus, held on the 3rd weekend of November at Norse Hall, 111 N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232. Register in advance. Web site: https://www.dancearama.org.
Reedsport: Community Contra Dance will be held 7-9 p.m. at the Smith River Grange, 9500 Lower Smith River Road, Reedsport. To get to the grange, take the first right turn (Lower Smith River Road) after crossing the historic bridge north out of Reedsport. Stay on the road until you get to milepost 9. The grange will be on your left. family friendly event costs $5. Children ages 12 and younger are admitted free with an adult. For more information, call 541-271-0219. Web site: None.
Reedsport - South Coast Folk Society Summer Campout: Campout to socialize, play tunes and have a dance. $20/ night RV's & $10/night tents. We will offer workshops and host a dance at the Smith River Grange Hall on Saturday night. Paddle around in our kayaks during the day... tunes by the campfire at night. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/257034030986470/.
Reedsport - Community Center: Contra/square dance at the Reedsport Community Center 451 Winchester Ave in Reedsport at 7 pm. Web site: None.
Rhododendron - Northwest Passage: Come join the Portland Country Dance Community in the Oregon woods for an extra-long weekend full of high-energy Contradancing and English Country Dancing. Northwest Passage, PCDC's Labor Day dance and music weekend, at Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp. Located near Rhododendron, an easy 53-mile drive from Portland, Kiwanis features a great dance hall and a variety of accommodations in a beautiful forest setting. Held in early September. Advance registration recommended. Web site: http://www.nwpassagedancecamp.org/.
Roseburg: Irish Creme Contra Dance from 7pm to 10pm at the Melrose Grange Hall, 3811 Melrose Road. Open invitational to Oregon Musicians. Open to the public, all ages welcome. Suggested donation at the door $4. Potluck held for musicians before the doors open. Refreshments available during the dance. For more information: contact Aleta McGee 541.672.4621. Web site: http://www.irishcremeband.blogspot.com/.
Roseburg - Umpqua Community College: School wide contra dance from 6:30-9:00 pm in the cafeteria! Contra dancing is a fun way to unwind and hang out after a stressful day at school. If you can follow directions then you can contra! All you have to do is listen to the caller and move your feet. Still aren't convinced? Come at 6:30 for the workshop and learn the moves. This is an all age and abilities and FREE event, so bring your family, friends and get ready to dance! Web site: http://www.umpqua.edu/.
Roseburg - Sister Cities Dance: Roseburg Sister Cities is hosting a Barn Dance at the Winston Community Center, 440 SE Grape St., Winston, OR 97496. Doors will open at 7:45 and admission is $7. Web site: None.
Roseburg - Oran Mor Mead: Warm-up and teaching session during social hour 2-3pm dance from 3-5pm. $8 cover at the door and tip jar for the band! Community come together dance. No partner needed to dance all welcome! Super fun and completely inclusive. Food and drink available for purchase. Reservations and info: Shasta Ray 541-537-1031. Web site: https://www.oranmormead.com.
Salem: 5th Saturday Productions is sponsoring a series of dances on 5th Saturdays at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 5090 Center St. NE. Contact Quentin Smith at (734) 497-7287 or q.m.smith at sign att.net for more information. Web site: http://www.uusalem.org/.
Salem - Silver Falls Musical Gathering: The Corvallis Folklore Society sponsors this music and dance weekend at Silver Falls State Park - 20 miles east of Salem in early October. Register in advance. Web site: http://cfs.peak.org/silverfalls/index.php.
Sixes: Dances at the Sixes River Grange Hall, 44556 Hwy 101, Sixes, Oregon 97476. Wear comfortable clothes and clean, soft-soled shoes; fragrance-free requested. No experience or partner needed. Adults $7, Seniors (over 60) $6, SCFS members and military $5, Students with ID FREE, Supervised children under 6 free. Web site: https://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com.
Sixes - Contra on the Coast: Meet to camp, jam and socialize for a weekend. An all-volunteer event hosted by the South Coast Folk Society. Contra dance at the Sixes River Grange. Saturday and Sunday Dances. Featuring the Open Band and Callers. Edson Creek Group Campsite # D and E is reserved for three nights - http://www.recreation.gov/camping/edson-creek-group-campground/ - Web site: https://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/events/1772782556288413/.
Sixes - Midsummer Campout and Contra: Meet to camp, jam and socialize for a weekend. An all-volunteer event hosted by the South Coast Folk Society. Web site: https://southcoastfolksociety.wordpress.com/.
Sky Camp - Cascade Contras: Dance weekend sponsored by the Eugene Folklore Society in early April. Advance registration strongly recommended. Web site: http://eugenefolklore.org/CascadeContras/.
Sky Camp - Danceable Feast: Contra/swing dance weekend in November at Sky Camp near Eugene, Oregon. Register in advance. Web site: http://danceablefeast.org/.
Springfield - Midsummer Madness: The Eugene Folklore Society sponsors the camp in odd-numbered years at the Living Waters Camp, 39545 Deerhorn Rd, Springfield, OR 97478 in late July for a weekend of play, music, dancing, song, sports, and play. Plus the camp has a big ole swimming pool. Register in advance. Web site: http://eugenefolklore.org.
Springfield - Squares - Sprout! Harvest Festival: Variety of activities, food, drink, lawn games, plus a square dance from 7pm to 9pm. Event is from 3pm to 9pm at the Sprout! Marketplace/Farmers' Market at 4th and A Street in Springfield. Web site: http://sproutfoodhub.org/sprout/.
St. Paul - Champoeg State Park: Dances from 6pm to 9pm at Champoeg State Park in the Donald Manson threshing barn behind the Visitor Center. Free with an annual Oregon State Parks Pass or Campground Permit or $5 per vehicle parking fee. For more information contact the Visitor Center at 503-678-1251 ext 221. Presented by the Friends of Historic Champoeg in cooperation with Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Web site: http://www.oregonstateparks.org.
Talent: The Ashland Folk Music Club sponsors dances on third Saturdays at the Talent Middle School, 102 Christian Avenue. Beginners' instruction 7:00 PM. Main dance 7:30-10:30 PM. Admission: $6 AFMC members, $8 general public, $5 students high school and older. Younger children free. Annual membership $10 for singles, $15 for families. Dances are suitable for older children through seniors. All dances are taught. Come alone or with a partner. Wear soft soled, non-marking shoes and comfortable clothing. Perfume scents are discouraged. No smoking on school property. Non-dancing children must be supervised by a responsible teen or adult. For more information call Gordon at 541 488-0679, or email ashlandfolk@attglobal.net. Web site: http://www.kluberg.com/ashland.html.
Union - Friday: The Northeast Oregon Folklore Society sponsors monthly community dances on the third Friday of each month, September through June. Dance is from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm at High Valley VFW Hall, 505 North Main Street. Cost: Freewill donation. More info: Melody, 541-562-1131. Web site: http://www.neofs.us/.
Veneta - Oregon Country Fair: The Fair is held in July at the 24550 Chickadee Ln, Elmira, OR (or Veneta), 12 miles west of Eugene and just outside the Veneta town center. Variety of dance programs at the Dance Pavilion on various days including a contra dance on Friday and Saturday. Web site: http://www.oregoncountryfair.org.
Wallowa - Fiddle Tunes Camp: Ours is a week-long, small, inexpensive and family oriented music workshop focused on traditional string instruments, begun in 2005. Week-long classes are $100. There is special discount for families of 4 or more, reducing the individual fee to $85. There is a country family dance on Thursday nights for which the workshop participants provide the music. Classes are held in the elementary wing of the Wallowa School, core classes from 9 AM until noon, and electives in the afternoon, Monday through Friday. There is plenty of time for practice and jam sessions. PLUS we've added a new MORNING PROGRAM for CHILDREN! Web site: http://www.wvmusicalliance.org/.
Wallowa - Fiddle Tunes Camp - Community Dance: All are invited to this highlight of the annual fiddle camp in the town of Wallowa. Time: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm; Where: Wallowa School, 315 1st Street Wallowa. Web site: http://www.wvmusicalliance.org/.
Wren - Community Hall: Dance at the Wren Community Hall, 35515 Kings Valley Hwy, Wren, OR. No experience or partner necessary. Caller will teach all dances. And if you don’t want to dance, come and hang out and listen to great music and visit with your neighbors. Web site: None.
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.