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 Pennsylvania including dance camps and weekends along with other events in Pennsylvania 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.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: The Valley Contra Dance is located at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley (UUCLV), 424 Center Street, corner of Wall Street in historic Bethlehem. The time is 7:30 - 10:30 PM , with dance instruction at 7:00. Generally, but not always, dances are on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, with some 5th Saturdays and other dates. No partner or experience needed, families welcome. The moves in the dances are called by a caller. Music is live. Cost: $9.00 (age 7-15, students with ID $5.00, $1 discount for members) Bring a snack to share at the break. Please carry in clean soft-soled shoes for dancing, to protect the floor (and our reputation)). PARKING ALERT: We try to avoid crowding the residents of the neighborhood around the church. Please consider using two nearby parking lots on Center Street belonging to: United Labor Unions, 1 block south of the church, or Herron Funeral Home, 1 block north. Web site: http://www.valleycontradance.org/.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania - ButterBall Friday: This special dance is a prelude to the ButterBall the next day and is sponsored by the Valley Contra Dance. The dance is held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley (UUCLV), 424 Center Street, corner of Wall Street in historic Bethlehem. The time is 7:30 - 10:30 PM , with dance instruction at 7:00. No partner or experience needed, families welcome. The moves in the dances are called by a caller. Music is live. $10 afternoon dance, $10 evening dance $18 both. Bring a snack to share at the break. Please carry in clean soft-soled shoes for dancing, to protect the floor (and our reputation)). PARKING ALERT: We try to avoid crowding the residents of the neighborhood around the church. Please consider using two nearby parking lots on Center Street belonging to: United Labor Unions, 1 block south of the church, or Herron Funeral Home, 1 block north. Web site: http://www.valleycontradance.org/.
Bethlehem - Celtic Classic Highland Games and Festival: One contra dance is part of the series of events during this weekend festival in late September. Web site: http://www.celticfest.org.
Bethlehem - ContraCopia Friday: Dancing from 3pm to 10:30pm. Prices: $11 each dance ($20 both), $10 each dance members ($18 both), $5 each dance students ($10 both). Web site: http://www.valleycontradance.org/.
Bethlehem - UUCLV Benefit: Barn Dance Special Event - help support our home venue, the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley! 6-7 PM Potluck; 7 PM-9 PM Dancing. Ticket prices: $10.00 (adults) / $3.00 (children). Beginners and children are welcome. All dances are taught. Location: Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley 424 Center St., Bethlehem, Pa 18018 For more information, contact Jansen Wendell at lec@uuclvpa.org or 610-866-7652. Web site: http://uuclvpa.org.
Birdsboro, Pennsylvania: We dance on the first Saturday of every month except July and August. Our monthly dances are mostly contras, with some square or round dances for variety. Partners are not required (singles are welcome) and newcomers are encouraged to join us. We recommend that first-timers of any age attend an informal half-hour session before the dance to learn the basics. (It's fun, and you'll do fine. We promise!). Most dances are held at 7:30 p.m. at Birdsboro Community Memorial Center 201 E. Main Ste (PA 724), Birdsboro, PA. The teaching session for newcomers usually begins at 7 p.m. General $9; Members $8; Students $6; Children 12 and under are free! Prices may vary for special events. Web site: http://birdsborocontra.org/.
Bradford - Keith Blackmon Memorial Weekend - Squares:Celebrating the Rich Tradition of Round and Square Dancing in New York State. Location: Crook Farm, Bradford, PA, Great Valley Fire Company, Great Valley, NY and Cattaraugus County Museum, Machias, NY. Web site: http://cdss.org.
Bradford - Squares and Rounds: Dances, generally on the last Friday of the month at Crook Farm Homestead Bank Building (2nd building from the road), 476 Seaward Avenue Extension, Bradford, PA 16701. The Dance: This region of Western New York & Western Pennsylvania has a rich tradition of Square and Round dances with homegrown music and calling. We'll have a new format that combines Squares and Round dances in just the right combination! The Music: The Crook Farm All Stars will host the dance and invite other local musicians. The Caller(s): Keith Blackmon, our favorite local caller, was the centerpiece of this Dance for many years. Keith passed in 2011, but we'll never forget him. We will be honoring Keith by featuring a variety of local callers who learned dances from Keith and have developed their own style of calling the traditional (Eastern) singing and patter calls. Coffee, tea and snacks will be available. We contribute the income from snacks and coffee to help the Bradford Landmark Society defray expenses. You are encouraged to bring a treat to share, but it is not required. Dance is from 7pm to 10pm and admission is $3. For more information: Call Howard Blumenthal, 814-368-4057, or email. Web site: http://www.bradfordlandmark.org/index.php?TuesDance.
Bradford - Crook Farm Old Time Music Festival: Weekend of oncerts, jamming, square dances at the Crook Farm Homestead Bank Building at the Bradford Historical Society's venue. Web site: https://crooktop.com/.
Broomall, Pennsylanvia - Mostly Waltz: Mostly Waltz invites you to an afternoon of dancing to beautiful live music. In addition to the waltzes, the program includes other couple dances, such as swing, tango, polka, one-step, schottische, fox-trot, etc...more. The Sunday afternoon program: 2:30 - 3:30 Intermediate Lesson (changes monthly); 2:45 - 3:30 Basic Waltz Lesson; 3:30 - 6:00 Dancing to Live Music, starting with a waltz mixer. (Bring your favorite recordings for the break at 4:45). Admission $12, full-time student $6 (includes lessons). Reduced admission for volunteers. Location: Felinton Hall, 715 Paxon Hollow Road. Web site: http://www.mostlywaltz.com/.
Bryn Athyn: Community Contra Dance from 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM at the Asplundh Field House, 2775 Buck Road, Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania 19006. Join us for a fun-filled evening of social dancing! For those of you new to Contra Dance, it is a type of folk dance made up of long lines of couples. Similar to square dancing, each set is taught ahead of time in addition to being accompanied by a caller who gives instructions throughout the dance. Contra is perfect for all ages and skill levels - and you're not required to bring a partner! This event will include snacks to share. Admission: Adults: $8, Students: $5, Kids under 12: free. What to wear: dress comfortably, and please wear only soft-soled shoes (no heels or street shoes) - they will be easier to dance in and easier on our floors! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1430234577049643/.
Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania: Dance from 7:30pm - 10:30pm at the Pem Dance Studio. Web site (for the college): http://brynmawr.edu.
Canadensis, Pennsylvania - Spring Thing: Weekend run by volunteers with workshops and events in folk arts, music, dance, hiking, swimming, etc. in late May. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.pfs.org/SPR.php.
Centre Hall: Barn Dance sponsored by the Alliance Christian Fellowship. Location: 607 Smith Lane, Centre Hall, PA (near Linden Hall). This is about a 15 minute drive from downtown State College. Time: 7pm-10pm. Web site: http://www.acfpennstate.org/.
College Township - Millbrook Marsh: A short dance is one of the activities during this one-day event at the Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, 548 Puddintown Road, College Township. Web site: http://www.crpr.org/sp-events/specials.html.
Corry, Pennsylvania - Hands On History Day: A day filled with old time activities for children, for example: playing five stones, nine pins, archaeological dig, drop spinning wool and over fifteen additional activities. Includes Old English country dance. Web site: http://www.corryareahistoricalsociety.org/.
Easton, Pennsylvania: Are you interested in being part of Valley Contra Dance history? Join up to be part of the contra dance flash mob at the Easton Farmer's Market on Saturday Oct 12 at 11:00 a.m. All that is required is to have a partner and learn the dance and be at the Easton Farmer's Market ready to appear out of the crowd to dance for about 10 min and then blend back into the crowd. And to be available to practice at the break at Valley Contra dance on Sept 28. If you want to join, sign up here! Location: The Circle, Easton, Pennsylvania. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/660483880642102.
Edinboro, Pennsylvania - Downtown Art and Music Festival: A variety of events (concerts, music workshops, contra dance, children's activities) at a variety of venues in downtown Edinboro over four days. Web site: http://www.edinboroartandmusic.com.
Erie - Gannon University: Dance at Gannon University, specific location TBA. 7:00 - 8:30pm. Web site: http://www.toppish.com.
Fort Washington - Waltz - Lessons: Classes at the Institute of Dance Artistry, 400 Commerce Drive, Fort Washington, PA, 19034. Times and specific classes may vary. $8 each for 5 or more lessons; $10 each for 3 or 4 lessons; $12 to try a lesson(s). Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com.
Franklintown - Squares: The CPCA (Central Pennsylvania Callers Association) hold square dances some months at the Franklintown Fire Company, 107 S. Baltimore St., Franklintown, PA 17323. The dance is an old fashioned eastern style square dance with a live band. No experience is required. So come out and have some fun!!! The CPCA is a non profit club that meets monthly on the 3rd Sunday at venues throughout Central Pennsylvania. For info email to cpcadance@comcast.net or phone Elsie @ 717-599-5444 Admission is $5 at the door. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/CPCAsquaredancing/.
Freeburg, Pennsylvania - Squares: The American Folk Musicians Association #11 Country and Western Music is hosting a country dance that includes square dance, round dance, line , and 2 step. Public is invited and beginners and families are welcome. The dance will be held at the Freeburg Community Center from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Contact: 717-395-3660. Web site: None.
Freeburg - CPCA - Squares: The CPCA (Central Pennsylvania Callers Association) hold square dances some months at the Freeburg School, 11 East Church Road, Freeburg, PA 17827. The dance is an old fashioned eastern style square dance with a live band. No experience is required. So come out and have some fun!!! The CPCA is a non profit club that meets monthly on the 3rd Sunday at venues throughout Central Pennsylvania. For info email to cpcadance@comcast.net or phone Elsie @ 717-599-5444 Admission is $5 at the door. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/CPCAsquaredancing/.
Gettysburg - National Remembrance Day Ball: Dance at the Eisenhower Hotel, 2634 Emmitsburg Rd, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 17325 from 8pm to 11pm. Dances led by the Victorian Dance Ensemble. Period dress encouraged, but not required. Price: $20 per person in advance $25 per person at the door. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/Gettysburg-Remembrance-Day-Parade-1483629365235974/.
Glenside, Pennsylvania - New Year's Eve: Special New Year's Eve Dance. Glenside Memorial Hall at Waverly Rd. and Keswick Ave. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/.
Glenside, Pennsylvania - Winter Cotillion: Special dance sponsored by the 3rd Saturday series. Glenside Memorial Hall at Waverly Rd. and Keswick Ave. Come Dressed in Your Holiday Best - Seasonal Decorations & Scrumptious Refreshments. Admission $14; students $10. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/ThirdSaturday.html.
Glenside, Pennsylvania - Holiday Afterglow: A fantastic live blend of traditional musicianship and Electronic dance music. Call it Techo Contra, Alternative music contra, or what ever you like. The lights will be low, the music steamy. With blacklights blaring we'll dance from 8 pm 'till midnight by glow-stick light in the afterglow of the holidays. $15 / $10 students with ID. Lessons at 7:30 for new dancers. (If you have never tried contra before, be sure to be there at 7:30. Better yet, give contra a try beforehand on Thursday http://www.thursdaycontra.com). The Party is at Glenside Memorial Hall which is located 185 South Keswick Avenue in Glenside PA 19038, home of the Thursday Night Contra Dance. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/.
Glenside, Pennsylvania - Callers' Workshop: Callers workshop (Preparing for the Next Level) from noon to 4pm. Dance angels wanted (people to dance for the callers). Contact Donna Hunt (302.477.1867 or https://www.facebook.com/donna.hunt.77736) for details. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/.
Glenside, Pennsylvania - Band Leader Workshop: Looking to improve your band leading skills? Discussion on preparation, communication with musicians and callers, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and basic conducting. This workshop is targeted to SPUDS (large open band) leaders but the information will also be useful to smaller band members and interested musicians. Bring your instruments, we are planning to put the ideas into use right away. Event is from 1pm to 4pm near Glenside, PA. Cost is $25 (free to PATMAD members (donations accepted but not expected)). Please bring a snack to share. To reserve our place, email your name, email and phone number to Kneubauer123@yahoo.com (checks (made out to PATMAD) to Kim Neubauer, 7932 Green Lane, Wyncote, PA 19095. Web site: http://thursdaycontra.com.
Grantville - Squares: The CPCA (Central Pennsylvania Callers Association) hold square dances some months at the East Hanover Community Building, 8848 Jonestown Rd Grantville, PA 17028. The dance is an old fashioned eastern style square dance with a live band. No experience is required. So come out and have some fun!!! The CPCA is a non profit club that meets monthly on the 3rd Sunday at venues throughout Central Pennsylvania. For info email to cpcadance@comcast.net or phone Elsie @ 717-599-5444 Admission is $5 at the door. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/CPCAsquaredancing/.
Halifax - Squares: The CPCA (Central Pennsylvania Callers Association) hold square dances some months at the Halifax Ambulance Building, 31 Bunker Hill Road, Halifax, PA 17032. The dance is an old fashioned eastern style square dance with a live band. No experience is required. So come out and have some fun!!! The CPCA is a non profit club that meets monthly on the 3rd Sunday at venues throughout Central Pennsylvania. For info email to cpcadance@comcast.net or phone Elsie @ 717-599-5444 Admission is $5 at the door. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/CPCAsquaredancing/.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: The Harrisburg Area Contra Dance Association holds dances on the 2nd Friday of the month. Dances include mostly contras, but also traditional squares, circles, mixers, hambos, schottisches, waltzes, and more. Location: Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church at 5501 Locust Lane. And begin at 8:00 pm Evening Schedule: Dance Intro: 7:30 pm; Dance: 8:00 - 11:00 pm. Costs: Adults: $9, Students: $5, Ages 13-19: $5, Ages 12 and under: free. Dress comfortably. The hall has a beautiful wood floor, wonderful for dancing, so bring and wear comfortable, non-marking shoes (high heels are not recommended for dancing). Web site: http://www.harrisburgcontra.org.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania - New Year's Eve: The Harrisburg Area Contra Dance Association holds the Locust Lane Contra Dance on New Year's Eve. Dances include mostly contras, but also traditional squares, circles, mixers, hambos, schottisches, waltzes, and more. Location: the social hall of Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church at 5501 Locust Lane. Evening Schedule: Dance Intro: 7:30 pm; Dance: 8:00 - 11:00 pm. Costs: Adults: $9, Students: $4, Ages 13-19: $4, Ages 12 and under: free. Dress comfortably. The hall has a beautiful wood floor, wonderful for dancing, so bring and wear comfortable, non-marking shoes (high heels are not recommended for dancing). Web site: http://locustlanecontra.freeservers.com/.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania - Frolic in the Fall: Friday is a Techno Contra from 8-11pm, adults $10, students $5, at Camp Reily in Harrisburg. Overnight camping is permitted on the grounds. Saturday includes hour long non-stop medley, world's best potluck brought by you, 11am-11pm, adults $30, students $20, at Camp Reily in Harrisburg. Unfortunately no camping permitted tonight. Location: Camp Reilly, 300 Camp Reiley Road, Harrisburg, PA. More information: fallfrolic@yahoo.com - Web site: http://www.frolicinthefall.freeservers.com/.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania - Harrisburg Jazz and Multicultural Festival: Multi-genre music festival, lots of food, plus a contra dance. Held in early July. Web site: http://www.harrisburgrec.com/info/default.aspx.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania - Squares - State Museum: Be There and Be Square! In conjunction with the special exhibit "Making it Better: Folk Arts in Pennsylvania Today," The State Museum will host a square dance. Escorted tour of the "Making it Better" exhibition and dance practice 5-6 pm with dancing until 8:30pm. Free to the public, with support from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, and the Pennsylvania Folklife Archive at Jump Street. Location: The State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North Street Harrisburg, PA 17120-0024 Phone: (717) 787-4980 - Web site: http://www.statemuseumpa.org.
Haverford, Pennsylvania - Haverford College Folk Club: Dance is at Haverford College, Founders Hall, 370 Lancaster Ave Haverford, PA 19041 from 8pm to 11pm. Lesson at 7:30pm. E-mail atartaro@haverford.edu with questionss. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1685811061693916/.
Haverford, Pennsylvania - Haverford College Ryan Gym: Dance at Haverford College, Beginners lesson at 7:30, Dancing at 8:00. Dance is in Ryan Gym on campus. Park in Haverford's South Lot. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/663859790400936.
Haverford, Pennsylvania - Founders Hall: Dance at Haverford College, Founders Hall, 370 Lancaster Ave Haverford, PA 19041 from 8pm to 11pm. Lesson at 7:30pm. E-mail kshroff@haverford.edu with questions. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/710877669078612/.
Honesdale, Pennsylvania: Dancing at The Cooperage, 1030 Main Street, Honesdale, PA, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Lessons for beginners 7:15. Suggested donation $10/adult, kids under 15 free. A live band plays traditional jigs and reels, while a live caller leads participants through dances. It's great fun for all ages. No need to bring a partner. Web site: http://thecooperageproject.org. Ragtag Rutabags Facebook page.
Honesdale, Pennsylvania: Dance the Cherry Ridge Campsites. Cost: $10 per person OR $6 If you are staying at Cherry Ridge. Dance from 7pm to 10pm. Web site: http://www.cherryridgecampsites.com.
Huntingdon, Pennsylvania - Folk College: The Huntingdon County Arts Council Folk College is a fun and friendly weekend of playing and listening to folk music - a fantastic three days of workshops, jam sessions, concerts, and group playing. The camp is designed for musicians with eclectic tastes. The weekend includes one contra dance. Register in advance. Held at the Juniata College campus in late May. Web site: http://simplegiftsmusic.com/folkcollege/.
Huntingdon, Pennsylvania - Greenwood Furnace Folk Gathering: A weekend of music workshops, jamming, concerts and dancing at Greenwood Furnace State Park in Central Pennsylvania. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.folkgathering.com/index.html.
Huntingdon, Pennsylvania: Public dance and concert as part of the Folk College Weekend. Held at Juniata College. Before the dance gets underway, a concert will take place at 7:00 p.m. in the Suzanne von Liebig Theater in the Halbritter Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets for both the concert and dance are only $10 ($8 for HCAC members) and can be purchased at the door or in advance from the Huntingdon County Arts Council. huntingdonarts@comcast.net or (814) 643-6220. Web site: http://www.folkcollege.com.
Huntingdon, Pennsylvania - Post Office: Dance in front of the Huntingdon Post Office, 401 Washington Street in Huntingdon, PA from 7pm to 9pm in honor of the centennial. It is free and open to the public. Web site: None.
Jim Thorpe: Location: Mauch Chunk Museum Ballroom, 41 West Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229. Dances start at 8PM with a Beginners' lesson at 7:30pm. Admission $9.00 benefits Roots Town Radio, Inc. This event is funded in part by the Gadd/Merrill Fund of the Country Dance and Song Society. Web site: None.
Kimberton - Hootenanny: A contra dance is part of this afternoon and evening event at Camphill Kimberton, 1601 Pughtown Road. Conrta dancing with a live band will be at 5:30 p.m. Craft vendors, kids games, face painting and raffles will be available. Admission is $10, $8 in advance. Food is sold separately. Web site: http://www.camphillkimberton.org/.
Kingston, Pennsylvania: The Folklore Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania sponsors New England Contra Dancing for the entire community. Dances are usually held on the first Saturday of the month, 7:00-10:00pm. A free introductory workshop begins at 6:45pm. A pot-luck dinner for dancers begins at 6pm. Please bring a dish to pass. Dances are held at the Church of Christ Uniting, 776 Market Street, Kingston, PA. Newcomers and people of all ages, with or without a partner, are welcome and can learn the steps the first night. Admission is "pay what you wish.". You can also call for more information: 570-333-4007. Web site: http://www.folkloresociety.org/Dancing.html.
Kittanning - David Shipe Memorial Dance: Dance at Hideway Hall, 461 Cadogan Slate Lick Rd, Kittanning, Pennsylvania 16201 from 4pm to 7pm. Web site: http://toppish.com/index.html.
Kresgeville, Pennsylvania - Head for the Hills: A weekend mix of contra, English, ceilidh, swing, performances, music, etc. in the Poconos in November. Sponsored by the Princeton Country Dancers. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.princetoncountrydancers.org/about-hfth.
Lake Como, Pennsylvania: The Folk Music Society of New York sponsors a spring weekend of concerts, workshops and classes in late May at the Kiskak Adult Center. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.minstrelrecords.com/fmsny/weekends.html.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania: The Lancaster Contra Dance happens every 3rd Saturday of the month, except for July. Whether you're an experienced dancer, or have never attended a dance before, you'll find that our community is warm and welcoming. It is NOT necessary to attend the dance as a couple. The dance runs from 7 to 10 pm (Beginner's Workshop 6:15). Adults: $10; Students: $6.00; Children 15 and under: FREE (Please bring Cash, we can't accept check or credit card). For further questions, please contact outreach@lancastercontra.org or Karen at (717) 951-4317. Summer dances are at Pavilion #11 in Lancaster County Central Park. Join us at 5:30 in August for a pot luck dinner. Non-summer dances are at St. John's Episcopal Church, 321 W. Chestnut Street. Web site: http://www.lancastercontra.org/.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania - Youth Contra Dance: Special Youth Contra Dance sponsored by The Lancaster Contra Dance. This is a dance for youth age 13-20 or thereabouts. (We won't be checking IDs) Dances will be taught and called. Admission is free. For further questions, please contact outreach@lancastercontra.org or Karen at (717) 951-4317. Non-summer dances are at St. John's Episcopal Church, 321 W. Chestnut Street (7:15pm Beginners' Workshop; 8:00pm Dance). Web site: http://www.lancastercontra.org/.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania - Landis Valley Village and Museum: Dance at the Firehouse building at Landis Valley Museum, 2451 Kissel Hill Rd, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601 from 7pm to 10pm with a beginners' workshop at 6:15 PM. Cost: $10 for general public $5 for members of the BYFG; $2 for non-dancers who want only to listen to the music. A fundraiser for the Landis Valley Museum. Sponsored by the Backyard Fruit Growers. A great time to have some fun and be social.. BYFG if possible please bring a snack to share during the break. Web site: http://www.landisvalleymuseum.org/.
Lancaster - Waltz/Polka - Oktoberfest: Oktoberfest concert and dancing at the Lancaster Catholic High School, 650 Juliette Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17601 starting at 7:30pm. The event is an evening of music and dancing to polka and waltz music from Germany, Austria, Slovenia and the U.S. The event s open to all ages. Light refreshments will be served. The event is a fundraiser for Lancaster Catholic High School’s Fine and Performing Arts Department. The cost is $10 per person, or $85 for a reserved table of 10. For reservations or to order tickets, contact Tony Brill at tbrill@lchsyes.org or by calling (717) 509-0310. Web site: None.
Laural Highlands, Pennsylvania - Ski Dance Weekend: A combo weekend in February of contra dance and cross-country skiing sponsored by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (Ski-Touring Section) and the Sierra Club. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.skidance.com/.
Lewisberry, Pennsylvania: Weekend music and dance festival including storytelling, crafts, jamming, kids activities, and food. Location: Roundtop Mountain Resort, 925 Roundtop Road, Lewisberry, PA 17339. Web site: http://susquehannafolkfestival.org/.
Lewisburg, Pennsylvania: Dances are held on 2nd Saturdays (September through May) from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Donald L. Heiter Community Center, 100 North Fifth Street. Admission: Usually $8; free for those under 18 and $5 for students. Web site: http://lewisburgcontra.com/ or http://lewisburgcontra.wixsite.com/lewisburgcontradance.
Ligonier, Pennsylvania: Dances at the Chestnut Ridge Community Center from 8pm to 11pm. $5 per person for adults; youth 18 and under free. Basket raffles and 50/50 drawing. Raises funds for improvements to the building and to create activities and events to help bring some new faces to the center. Web site: None.
Lititz: Dance at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 W. Orange Street, Lititz. New and experienced contra/folk dancers are welcome. The caller will provide instruction at the start with live music. Cost is $9 per person, plus a snack, dessert or beverage to share. Let's start spring with a great time of fun, fellowship, and dancing. Web site: http://www.cfire.org.
Lower Merion, Pennsylvania: Special evening concert and couples dancing at Merion Friends Meeting Activity Building, 615 Montgomer Avenue from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Admission: $10; students $7. Sponsored by the 3rd Saturday dance series. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/ThirdSaturday.html.
Malvern - Malvern Bible Chapel: Join us for MBC's Annual Hoe-Down on November 10th at 7pm to 10pm. This year we will just have the square and contra dancing event with a break for light refreshments. This is an all-ages event - please feel free to come and invite friends! RSVP on Facebook if you are planning to attend. Location: Woodland Avenue & Roberts Lane. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/482329531798202/.
Malvern, Pennsylvania: Fundraising dance at St. Peter's in the Great Valley, 2475 St. Peter's Road, Malvern, PA, 19355 from 5pm to 9pm. $25/person; $10 children 12 and under; $65/family of four or more. Includes dance, food and beverage. The fun begins with square and circle dancing with instruction by experienced callers. Dancers will enjoy the following supper of BBQ and sides. Throughout the evening there will be both a silent and a live auction. The event will conclude with a bonfire and s’mores. Web site: http://www.stpetersgv.org.
Malvern, Pennsylvania - Squares - Malvern Arts: Community square dance and potluck from 2pm to 5pm at Malvern Arts, 146 Channing Avenue, Malvern PA. Bring the entire family to this free event and join the fun! No experience necessary. Dress causally. Bring food or a beverage to share if you can. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/798139153948354/.
Marietta, Pennsylvania - Waltz: Celebrate Valentines' weekend with your sweetie, or come and dance with other singles! Learn how to do a beautiful, flowing waltz, along with a variety of other fun couple dances. We'll start with the basics, and then throw in a few extra moves to make it more fun. Location: Union Meeting House, 60 Waterford Ave, Marietta, PA 17547. Dance: 7-9pm. $12 General Admission; $10 SFMS Members. Web site: http://www.sfmsfolk.org.
Meadville, Pennsylvania: The Allegheny College Contra Dances are monthly during the semester, except during campus breaks. Dancers gather at 7:30, and music begins at 8pm. Public and students are welcome. Check this schedule for correct dates. Families welcome. Admission is $10 for adults, students free. Location: Montgomery Hall - Main Level. Web site: http://toppish.com/index.html.
Meadville, Pennsylvania - Grange: Dance at the Meadville City Garage, top floor, as part of the 2nd Saturday Nite Live music series. Address: Market Square Garage - Market Square/W. Cherry. Time from 8pm to 10pm. Web site: http://toppish.com/index.html.
Mechanicsburg: Dances at the Silver Spring Presbyterian Church, 444 Silver Spring Rd, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. Intro at 7:30 PM. Dance: 8:00 - 10:30 PM. Adults: $9, Students: $5, Ages 13-19: $5, Ages 12 and under: Free! Members of HACDA save a dollar on admission at each dance. Membership costs only $20 per year. Web site: http://harrisburgcontra.weebly.com.
Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania - Battle of Chamber's Ridge Contra Dance: Contact Linda Estupinan Snook at 570-966-5052 for more information. Dance at the VFW Bandstand Site at 7:30 pm. Join the Lewisburg Contra Dancers and the fun for the 6th Annual Chamber's Ridge Event. Contra and Civil War music have many songs and steps in common - jigs, reels and waltzes to name a few. The Contra Rebels will be playing and the Lewisburg group will be helping everyone to learn the dances. Come and experience 19th century music at its finest and benefit Mifflinburg's unique treasure - The Buggy Museum. The dance will begin at 7:30 pm on the grass in front of the bandstand. There is never an admission fee and parking is free. Come and mingle with the Civil War soldiers and their ladies as well as the Contra dancers. There will be a Cake Walk - an activity attributed to the Civil War era - where when the music stops, if you are in front of a cake - it is yours! Enjoy the Civil War heritage of Mifflinburg and benefit the museum as well. Admission is free, fun is priceless! Call 570-966-5052 or 570-966-1355 for more information or to donate a cake - you can!!!! Web site: http://www.buggymuseum.org.
Narberth, Pennsylvania: Dance at the Narberth Borough Hall, 100 Conway Ave., 2nd Floor, Narberth, PA 19072 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm, sponsored by the Narberth Civic Association. Admission: $10.00, includes light refreshments. Web site: http://www.narberthcivic.org/.
New Hope, Pennsylvania - New Hope-Solebury Library Benefit: The Friends of the New Hope-Solebury Library, Bucks County, PA will hold a barn party to raise funds for a wheel-chair lift for the library. Celebrate Americana will feature square and contra dancing. The event, to be held in a 19th century stone barn at Hope Ridge Farm in New Hope, will begin with a barbecue buffet (beer and soda included) at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $40.00; $45.00 at the door. All proceeds from the evening will go to the purchase and installation of the wheel-chair lift ensuring access for all members of the community to the library service and programs. For tickets, directions, and more information, call 215-862-5705 or visit Web site: http://www.friendsflnhs.org.
Newport - Squares: Dance as part of the Newport Lions Club Carnival at the Perry County Fairgrounds, from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. Lessons from 6:15pm to 7:15pm. Free. Web site: None.
Newville - Squares: The CPCA (Central Pennsylvania Callers Association) hold square dances some months at the South Fairview First Church of God Fellowship Hall, 1212 Centerville Road, Newville, PA 17241. The dance is an old fashioned eastern style square dance with a live band. No experience is required. So come out and have some fun!!! The CPCA is a non profit club that meets monthly on the 3rd Sunday at venues throughout Central Pennsylvania. For info email to cpcadance@comcast.net or phone Elsie @ 717-599-5444 Admission is $5 at the door. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/CPCAsquaredancing/.
North Warren, Pennsylvania - Free Books for Kids Town: Old Tyme Country Barn Dance (not a contra dance) - easy dances for non-dancers. Benefit for Free Books for Kids Town. Live music and callers, door prizes, free refreshments. Location: North Warren Community Center, 200 S. State Street behind the North Warren Presbyterian Church. Your donation to Free Books for Kids Town is your price for admission. Event is from 7pm to 9pm. Everyone welcome. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/FreeBooksForKidsTown.
Ottsville, Pennsylvania: Graceful Home Design and the River Valley Waldorf School invite you to a Gypsy Costume Contra Dance. Please wear your favorite Gypsy Attire and come to the workshop starting at 6:30 with the dance from 7pm to 10:30pm at Graceful Home Design in Ottsville, PA, 250 Durham Road, 18942; across from the Fire House and Ottsville Inn. Children are welcome. Suggested donation $9.00 at the door. Fundraising beverages light supper and snacks will be served by the River Valley Waldorf School 8th Grade - rsvp gracefulhomedesign@gmail.com - Web site: None.
Ottsville, Pennsylvania - Traditional Arts Center: Dances at the Traditional Arts Center (Graceful Home Design (?)) 250 Durham Road, 18942, across from the Fire House and Ottsville Inn. 6:30 - 7:00 Beginner Workshop, 7:00 - 10:30 Dance. $9 Suggested donation. Tasty food fundraiser from the River Valley Waldorf School begins at 6 and runs all night - come join us for dinner beforehand! Web site: http://ottsvilletradarts.weebly.com.
Oxford, Pennsylvania - Janie's Jumpstart Weekend Music Camp: It is a weekend long music camp with great Old Time musicians and highly experienced teachers in a small class setting (maximum 8 students per instructor) and over 12 hours of instruction and 6+ hours of jamming! The focus of this camp is to help you get to the next level in your playing and of course to have a lot of fun! In addition to small group and individual classes, there will be band/jam sessions to help you learn how to “play well with others” as well as listening sessions dedicated to original source material. This camp is designed for the intermediate/advanced level musician who wants to not only increase and develop their repertoire of Old Time music, but also to work on techniques and strategies to get to the next level in their playing. No dance listed. Web site: http://www.janiesjumpstart.com/.
Oxford, Pennsylvania - Janie's Jumpstart Weekend Music Camp: It is a weekend long music camp with great Old Time musicians and highly experienced teachers in a small class setting (maximum 8 students per instructor) and over 8 hours of instruction and 6+ hours of jamming! The focus of this camp is to help you get to the next level in your playing and of course to have a lot of fun! In addition to small group and individual classes, there will be band/jam sessions to help you learn how to “play well with others” as well as listening sessions dedicated to original source material. This camp is designed for the Novice and Intermediate-Advanced clawhammer banjo players, Intermediate fiddlers, novice-intermediate guitarists who wants to not only increase and develop their repertoire of Old Time music, but also to work on techniques and strategies to get to the next level in their playing. No dance listed. Web site: http://www.janiesjumpstart.com/.
Oxford, Pennsylvania - Janie's Jumpstart Weekend Banjo Camp: Janie's Jumpstart promises small class settings of a MAXIMUM of 8 students per instructor so there is alot of attention to the individual needs of each student. Plus over 12 hours of instruction and 6+ hours of jamming! This Jumpstart weekend will be held in a comfortable country home setting in SE Pennsylvannia and includes fresh, tasty food (including snacks and beverages throughout the weekend Accomodations are NOT provided but a Janie's Jumpstart discount is available at area hotels (see info on registration form). No dance listed. Web site: http://www.janiesjumpstart.com/.
Oxford, Pennsylvania - Janie's Jumpstart Weekend Music (Fiddle and Banjo) Camp: This weekend is dedicated to Fiddle Styles (Cajun, Old Time and Quebecois) and Clawhammer Banjo! It’s a unique opportunity to learn from and spend quality time with great musicians and highly experienced and fun teachers. Our goal with the Jumpstart Camps is to not only teach you great tunes but how to play them better and have more fun! By focusing on both technique and musicality, we will help you get your playing to the next level. Janie's Jumpstart offers small class settings with a MAXIMUM of 8 students per instructor so there is alot of attention to your individual needs. We make every effort to keep the playing ability at apporoximately the same level in your class. Web site: http://www.janiesjumpstart.com/.
Oxford, Pennsylvania - Janie's Jumpstart Old Time Stringband Music Weekend Camp: Classes for fiddle, clawhammer banjo, and guitar plus other wildcard classes (singing and old time songs, fiddle/banjo duets, fiddle and banjo repertoire, tune writing, and more!) Web site: http://www.janiesjumpstart.com/.
Pennside, Pennsylvania: Special Dance for the Berks CountryFest Community and Beginners Dance. Free Admission! Experienced dancers welcome! Location: Antietam Valley Rec Center, 901 Byram St, Pennside, PA 19606 from 6pm to 8:30pm. Questions? Call Sarah at 484-333-0189 or see BerksCountryFest.com - Web site: http://elversoncontra.org/.
Perkasie, Pennsylvania - United Friend School Benefit Barn Dance: This adults-only event is from 5pm to 10pm at the Stonebrook Farm, 475 Deep Run Rd, Perkasie, Pennsylvania 18944 and includes dinner, dancing, silent auction and open bar. Web site: http://www.unitedfriendsschool.org/.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - ButterBall: A twelve-hour dance with several callers and bands held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving (U.S.) at the St.Thomas Indian Church in NE Philadelphia. Sponsored by the Heritage Dance Association, Princeton Country Dancers, Thursday Night Dance Committee and Valley Contra Dance. Web site: http://www.strutyourstuffing.org/.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Turkey Trot: The Philadelphia Canoe Club sponsors this annual dance in late November at the PCC Club House, 4900 Ridge Avenue. 6:00pm Dinner; 8:00pm Dancing 8:00pm. (These times may move slightly, check back for final times to be posted here.) Trot with the turkeys of PCC. Enjoy Square Dancing, Food, Live Music and Fun! Contact: Paul Schultz paulschultz1000@gmail.com Cost: $15 at the Door (NO advance ticket sales; Cash preferred but, checks are ok. Cash is preferred to make it easier to pay the band!) Web site: http://www.philacanoe.org/Social-Events.
Philadelphia - ContraCopia: Dance from 2:00pm - 11:00pm at St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church, 1009 Unruh Ave, Philadelphia, PA. Contras, Squares, Waltzes. Including a Multi Caller Contra Medley and Grid Squares. 3 Great Callers and 3 Awesome Bands. Only $25 ($20 for students with ID). Food will be for sale on site. Please bring soft soled shoes to protect the floor. More Info? Call Donna Hunt 302-477-1867. Sponsored by PATMAD (Philadelphia Area Traditional Music and Dance). Not associated with Contracopia.net - Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/contracopia.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - English/Contra Workshop: English/Contra Workshop and Dance at the Summit Presbyterian Church, 6757 Greene St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19119-3508 from 3:00pm to 5:30pm. English country dancing moved quickly to the American colonies in the 17th Century, but dances, figures, music and more have traveled back and forth in both directions ever since. The hey for four and gypsy are favorite modern examples, both going from relatively obscure English traditional or historical dances to mainstream contra choreography, then later making the journey back into mainstream ECD choreography. This workshop will explore a set of dances representative of transmission across cultures. Admission: $7. Full-time students half price. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/157483754411197/.
Philadelphia - Mt. Airy Barn Dance: Live music and dancing at an old-fashioned barn dance. Fun group dances everyone can do, including longways sets, circles, and squares. Beginners welcome! Dances are 2:00-3:30 (followed by a potluck snack), at Summit Church, on the corner of Greene St. and Westview (6757 Green St.), in the Mount Airy section of Philadelphia. Adults: $5; Kids age 4-18: $2; $15 max per family. Web site: http://www.germantowncountrydancers.org/.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - FarmFest at the Oval: The Oval will bloom into a Farm Festival, complete with fun, free activities for all ages for one weekend only. From farm-inspired games to beer gardens and food trucks, live bluegrass, an egg hunt and folk music, Grid Alive and even a petting zoo, don’t miss the first weekend reactivation of Philadelphia’s newest park on the parkway. Includes a barn dance on Saturday. Web site: http://www.phila.gov/parksandrecreation/programsandactivities/pages/theoval.aspx.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Waltz - Lessons - Summit Church: Lessons for beginners on up; 3 lessons: $30. Not sure about taking lessons? take a trial class for $12. Location: Allens Lane Art Center - Allens Lane and McCallum Street, Phila., PA 19119. Questions? contact Peggy or Ret at 215-643-4397 or lessons@mostlywaltz.com Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Waltz - Lessons - Allens Lane Art Center: Lessons in waltz, swing, etc. on various dates and times. Location: Allens Lane Art Center, 601 West Allens Lane ~ Philadelphia, PA 19119. Questions? contact Peggy or Ret at 215-643-4397 or lessons@mostlywaltz.com Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Contradelphia: Dances at the Christ Church Neighborhood House, 20 N American St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106 with a beginners' session at 7:30pm and the dance starting at 8pm and going to 10:30pm. Dances organized by the Philadelphia Service Cooperative. Contradelphia is a youth-run series, and will frequently run techno-contras, fusion contras and other shenanigan-inspiring events. All ages and experience levels welcome! No partner or experience needed, just show up. Admission: $10 regular, $5 for students with ID. Bring a snack to share at the break! I mean, assuming you like snacks. Questions? Email bryan@phillyservice.coop - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/groups/138986506219837/.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Thursdays: Dances from 8pm to 11pm every Thursday Night ~ Instruction at 7:30 pm. Admission - Local bands: $15-$5; *touring bands $20-$8; Free admission for children 12 and under. Location: The Irish Center / Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen St, Philadelphia, PA 19119 (in the Mt. Airy section of Philadelphia). Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - 3rd Saturdays: Contras and Squares from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm (Beginner's lessons shortly after 7:00). Location: Summit Presbyterian Church, 6757 Greene Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Admission: Varies, see dance listing, but generally $10/$5 for students. Some dates may include an afternoon dance and a potluck. Refreshments served at the break. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/ThirdSaturday.html.
Philadelphia - New Year's Eve: Special dance from 8:30pm to 12:30am at the Commodore Barry Club, 6815 Emlen Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119. $15/$10. Web site: http://www.thursdaycontra.com/index.html.
Philadelphia - Squares - West Philly: Dances at St. Mary's at Penn, 3916 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 from 7pm to 11pm. NO Experience needed! All dances will be taught. Kid and family friendly. Admission: $5-10 sliding scale. BYOB. Bring a vessel/bottle/cup etc. to use for water -- square dancing is exercise! Web site: https://www.facebook.com/westphillysquaredance/.
Philadelphia - Waltz - Class: Waltz classes at different levels at the Allens Lane Art Center, 601 West Allens Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Lesson packages or single class admission available. Time: 7:15pm to 8:15pm. Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com/mwlessons.html.
Philadelphia - Waltz - Class - St. Martin in the Fields: Waltz classes at different levels at the St. Martin in the Fields Church, 8000 St Martins Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19118 Lesson packages or single class admission available. 7:00 - 8:00 - Waltz Basics and Flourishes OR 8:15 - 9:15 - Cross-step Waltz. Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com/mwlessons.html.
Philadelphia - Waltz - Class - Allens Lane Art Center: Waltz classes at different levels at Allens Lane Art Center, 601 W. Allens Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Lesson packages or single class admission available. 7:00 - 8:00 - Waltz - Basics and Beyond. Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com/mwlessons.html.
Philadelphia - Waltz - Class - Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill: Waltz classes at different levels at the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Phila., PA 19118. Lesson packages or single class admission available. 7:00 - 8:00 - Waltz Beyond the Basics. Web site: http://mostlywaltz.com/mwlessons.html.
Philadelphia - Erik B. Benefit: Our contra dancing friend Erik B. is currently in the hospital with Leukemia. In his honor, we're holding a benefit contra dance- all funds raised go towards paying for his medical treatment. We hope that you can join us for this special night! We welcome new and experienced dancers alike! Location: Summit Church, 6757 Greene St, Philadelphia PA 19119. Suggested donation: $10. Lesson at 7 pm, Dance 7:30 - 10 pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/1235395053138403/.
Philadelphia - Teen Dance: Dance at USG-Unitarian Society of Germantown, 6511 Lincoln Dr, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19119 from 7pm to 9:30pm. All teens 12-18 welcome, no experience necessary, fun guaranteed! Great live music, awesome snacks! $5 donation. Parents welcome to stay and hang out. For more info contact rick@rickmohr.net - Web site: https://www.facebook.com/MountAiryBarnDance/.
Philadelphia - Teen Dance - Summit Church: No experience or partner needed! Just come and you'll get the hang of it. Tasty snacks. Great fiddle music. Bring a friend! Suggested donation $5. 7:30–10pm at the Summit Church, 6757 Greene St, (West Mt Airy), Philadelphia, PA 19119. For more information, email teencontra@webshed.net - Web site: http://teencontra.webshed.net/.
Philadelphia - Porch Fest Contra Dance: Informal outdoor dance at 4602 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143-6604, United States from noon to 2pm as part of the PorchFest event. Web site: http://westphillyporchfest.com/.
Philadelphia - Mt. Airy Village Fair: Demonstration and dance as part of the Fair. The Fiar runs from 11am to 4pm. Check site to confirm time of dance. Location: Greene Street and Carpenter Lane. Web site: https://www.mtairyvillage.com/mt-airy-village-fair.html.
Philadelphia - International Association of Gay Squares Dance Clubs Annual Convention - Contra Dance: Free dance as part of the annual convention at Philadelphia 201 Hotel, 201 N 17th St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 from 7pm to 10pm. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/696237927513707/.
Phoenixville - Hootenanny: Hootenanny from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Camphill Village Kimberton Hills, 1601 Pughtown Rd, Phoenixville, PA 19460, USA. Featuring locally produced, organic food, performances from local musicians, contra dancing, face painting, hayrides and more! Tickets are $10 per car at the gate. Web site: http://www.camphillkimberton.org.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Dances meet regularly every Friday from 8:00-11:00pm from mid-March to mid-November and on Saturdays from mid-November to mid-March unless otherwise noted (instruction at 7:30pm). All dances are $10 and $7 for students unless otherwise noted. Location: Wightman School 5604 Solway St, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. All ages and experience levels are welcome at our dance. Dress is casual and comfortable -- there is no special dress. Shoes should be comfortable, low-heeled and soft-soled. To protect the dance floor do not wear street shoes or high heels. Web site: http://www.pittsburghcontra.org.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Fall Dance Weekend: A dance weekend in November. Registration in advance is recommended. Web site: http://www.pittsburghcontra.org.
Pittsburgh - Lawrenceville: Contra dance in the Lawrenceville Area of Pittsburgh. It is being held at "Belvedere's", located at 4016 Butler Street. There will be a lesson at 7:30 p.m. The dance is from 8 to 11 p.m. The cost of the dance is $3. (As always, beginners are welcome.) Web site: None.
Pittsburgh - Lawrenceville - Doo Dah Days: Square dance at the Spirit Hall and Lodge, 242 51st Street. Show start at 7:30pm with dancing later in the evening. Over 21 event with a $10 cover charge. http://doodahhays.com.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - New Year's Eve: Special dance on New Year's Eve from 8pm to 11pm. All dances are $8 and $5 for students unless otherwise noted. Location: Swisshelm Park Community Center, 1050 Windermere Drive in Pittsburgh (Swisshelm Park neighborhood). All ages and experience levels are welcome at our dance. Dress is casual and comfortable -- there is no special dress. Shoes should be comfortable, low-heeled and soft-soled. To protect the dance floor do not wear street shoes or high heels. Web site: http://www.pittsburghcontra.org.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Carnegie-Mellon: We get together for contra, waltzes, squares, and other traditional social dances. Beginners welcome! Dances generally on 1st Sundays from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Skibo Small Gym, 5098 Tech Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. This dance welcomes all ages and is beginner-friendly, even though experienced dancers are welcome. The dance is free to CMU students, because the university pays our rent. We ask others to leave a donation so we can pay the band! Web site: https://thebridge.cmu.edu/organization/catsdance/.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Callers' Workshop: Monday nights 7:00-8:30 PM for six weeks at the Wilkins School Community Center in Regent Square. Free. Call Ron Buchanan at 412-519-2929 for more information. Web site: None.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Callers' Practice: Monday nights in June 2013 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Skibo Small Gym, 5098 Tech Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. All are welcome. Dancers welcome. Come on out and help support our new callers. Yes it may be small and move slower than a regular dance, but we have fun. Callers Welcome. Hopefully in addition to the afore mentioned NQRFTBTC we may be joined by our other area callers who may want to try something new, such as a Square. Or something new you may not want to do on Friday night. Web site: None.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Squares - Steel City Squares: There will be a Square Dance at The Shiloh Center in Lawrenceville, 3900 Mintwood Street, corner of Mintwood and 39th, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224. It all starts at 8 pm. Admission $5 to $10 by "sliding scale." All ages are welcome. (Ages 17 and under pay $1.) Bring a friend, bring a group, and BYOB. Proceeds for this dance benefit the Steel City Squares - to help us establish this as a monthly event! Message us here, or email info@steelcitysquares.org for more information. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/steel.city.squares.
Pittsburgh - Squares - High Energy Hoedown/Conservation Consultants Benefit: Benefit Square Dance for Conservation Consultants (non-profit that promotes responsible energy and resource use in homes and buildings). The event includes music, square dancing and tasty vittles and goes from 5:30pm to 9:00pm. Early-bird tickets: $45; regular admission $60. Location: Opera House, 2425 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Web site: http://getenergysmarter.org/.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Family: Dance on Friday or Saturday from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. $5 per person; $10 per family of 2 or more. Location: Winston Thurston School, 555 Morewood Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Dress is casual and comfortable -- there is no special dress. Shoes should be comfortable, low-heeled and soft-soled. To protect the dance floor do not wear street shoes or high heels. Web site: http://www.pittsburghcontra.org.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Squares - East End Brewing: Dance at 147 Julius Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. It's just 10 bucks at the door, and includes your first beer - maybe even a Grand Opening glass too, if we have any left at this point in the week. Space is limited. Doors at 6:00, Music at 6:30, Dance at 7:00. And we won't start chasing you out until 10pm. Web site: http://www.eastendbrewing.com.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Squares - Schenley Plaza: Guerrilla Square Dance at Schenley Plaza on Forbes at 1PM. Grab some cuban food from Conflict Kitchen or a beer at the Porch, and join us! Web site: None.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Waltz - Skibo Small Gym: Waltz from 2pm to 4pm at the Skibo Small Gym at Carnegie-Mellown. Web site: None.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Waltz - Outdoor Summer Dance Party: Waltz is one of the dance styles at this event from noon to 10pm at Avonworth Community Park, 498 Camp Horne Rd, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15237. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/290994984656846/.
Pittsburgh - Dancing in the Park: You can dance, you can jive, you can have the time of your life every week during Dancing in the Park! Get your feet and body moving with a different dance group each week. All events take place under the Schenley Plaza, 4100 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, in the tent from 7 - 10PM unless otherwise noted. Weeks listed here are for contra, waltz, English, or square dancing. Other dance styles other weeks. Web site: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/schenley-plaza.
Pittsburgh - Musicians' Workshop: Workshop at 1125 LaClair Street in Regent Square from 1pm to 3pm. Suggested donation is $5–$10 for the workshop. Web site: http://pittsburghcontra.org/.
Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania: Pocono Waltz Weekend in late October with workshops and events with waltz, Polkas, Flemish Mazurka, Viennese Waltz, Calypso and Cha Cha. Register in advance. Web site: http://poconowaltzweekend.org/.
Ross Township, Pennsylvania - Waltz - Classes: 6 week beginner waltz class at the Ross Township Community Center Gymnasium, 8-9PM, starting on June 13, 2012. No class on July 4th. No partner necessary. Registration must be through Ross Township Parks and Rec Dept. Must have 10 registered by June 8, 2012 to hold the class. Web site: http://www.ross.pa.us/parks/parks.html?genInfo.html.
Schwenksville, Pennsylvania - Philadelphia Folk Festival: is a mostly music weekend festival held in August with camp sites and day parking available near Clemmers Mill Road and Salford Station Road. Web site: http://www.pfs.org/PFF.php.
South Park, Pennsylvania - UUCSH Contra Dance: Dance at the Buffalo Inn is in South Park, at Brownsville Road and Corrigan Drive, South Park Township, Pa., 15129 and sponsored by the UU Church of the South Hills. Park cars beside state police headquarters. Doors open at 6 p.m. and a 30-minute lesson is planned for 6:30. The dance will begin promptly at 7:00 and conclude at 9:30. The first set will be family friendly. Onsite child care will be available for ages 4-11. Please make a donation to show your appreciation for our caregivers. Suggested donations for tickets: Dancers 12-18: $10; Dancers over 18, ticket presold at established contra dance venue:* $15; Dancers over 18, ticket purchased at the door: $20. More information and tickets are available by calling 412-561-6277 or sending an email to admin@sunnyhill.org - Web site: http://www.sunnyhill.org/contra-dance/.
Spring Grove, Pennsylvania - South Central Pennsylvania Old Time String Band Music Festival: Informal music festival at Elicker's Grove in Spring Grove. For Old Time musicians, bands, aficionados of traditional music and dancers. No contests, workshops or concerts, just jamming, picnicking, hanging out with friends, listening and dancing. No admission charge for the festival. For dances, separate donations will be accepted and divided among the bands and callers. (If you would like to call, or your band would like to play for some of the dances, please let us know.) Web site: http://www.sfmsfolk.org.
State College, Pennsylvania: The Central Pennsylvania Country Dance Association sponsors dances on the 3rd Friday of the month. Dances from 7:30 to 10:30pm. Experienced dancers please come to help. Location: Friends School, 1900 University Drive Extension, State College. Admission is $7 for members, $9 for non-members, and $6 for students. Children under 12 are admitted free.Memberships are $16 per calendar year for individuals, $30 for families. Web site: http://cpcda.org/.
State College - New Year's Eve: A contra dance is part of State College's First Night activities. Dancing will be from 8-11 PM in Harkins Hall which is downstairs at Grace Lutheran Church, 205 S. Garner St., State College, PA. There is plenty of parking behind the church. Admission is by First Night button which provides admission to most First Night performances. Buttons can be purchased for $8 at sites listed in the program guide, including First Night Information sites and at the performances. Children under 5 are admitted free with a button-wearing adult. Web site: http://www.firstnightstatecollege.com/.
State College, Pennsylvania - Winter Thaw Contra Dance and Dessert Auction: Event from 5 PM – 9 PM at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 208 West Foster Avenue, State College, Pennsylvania 16801. Come shake off your winter slump at this youth fundraiser! Beginner Contra Dance. Spaghetti Dinner 5pm/Dancing 6:15-7:45/Live Auction of Homemade Desserts 8pm. Tickets $15 in Advance/$20 at Door - contact Kathy Hickner at youth@standrewsc.org or stop by church office to purchase. Ages 4th grade and up. BYOB. Proceeds benefit St. Andrew's Youth Pilgrimage Fund. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/356837265140157/.
State College, Pennsylvania - St. Andrew's Episcopal: Pilgrim Youth Fundraiser Contra Dance with Spaghetti Dinner and Dessert Auction Contra Dance, Spaghetti Dinner, and Dessert Auction! This event will be advertised to the community and is open to the public. Ages 4th grade and up welcome; no partner needed. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $15 or at the door for $20. Location: 208 West Foster Avenue, State College PA 16801. Web site: http://standrewsc.org.
Swarthmore, Pennsylvania: At Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave, Swarthmore, PA 19081 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. Web site: None.
Swissvale, Pennsylvania: There will be an extremely informal (chaotic?) contra dance beginning at 8:00pm at the Wilkens School Community Center (WSCC). It will be a pickup band and volunteer callers. No admission charge, but I will pass the hat for the rent on the hall. Please bring your jamming instruments and/or your favorite dances. Matt already has a minimal quorum of performers (thank you facebook), but with a few more, everyone can play or dance or call as the mood strikes. WSCC is at 7604 Charleston Ave Swissvale, PA 15218-1265. Coming from the parkway, go up the hill Swissvale hill (into Regent square). Take the second left (first legal left) and left again at the stop sign. At the next stop sign, WSCC is diagonally across the intersection. Start looking for parking. Parking is going to be a problem, although it is not as bad as most of the rest of the east end. Due to snow they are permitting parking on the grounds (the old playgrounds), but we will not be the only people in the building until after 9:00. They suggested self organized car pools from the big parking lot at edgewood town center. After 9:00, we can double park each other, and park the playgrounds solid. Note: this is not a CDN/CDSSP dance. Matt Mathis organizing this on his own. Web site: None.
Swissvale, Pennsylvania - Waltz and Contra Jam: Waltz from 2:00pm to 3:30pm with a contra jam from 3:30pm to 5:00pm for callers, musicians and dancers at the Wilkins School Community Center (WSCC) 7604 Charleston Ave. What's a Contra Jam? An opportunity for callers, musicians and dancers to hone their contra skills. Callers: Please arrive at 3:00. We will meet somewhere down stairs to get ready. Musicians: Please setup on the stage at about 3:30. We will have recorded music for backup, if you want to both dance and play. Dancers: Please come for the whole shabang, if you can. Cost: we will pass the hat among callers and dancers to cover the hall rental. (Free for Musicians). If this works just half as well as the emergency contra dance, we might try to do these monthly or more during the summer and holidays. Contact Matt Mathis at matt dot mathis at gmail dot com for more information. Web site: None.
Swissvale, Pennsylvania - Waltz Class: Beginner waltz classes on various dates. The classes are held from 7 to 8 PM (beginner) and 8:15pm to 9:15p PM (intermediate) at the Wilkins School Community Center, 7604 Charleston Avenue. Cost will be $80 for the eight-class series. (This fee will support the community center.) The class will focus on basic waltz steps, with an emphasis on the nuances of clear leading and aware following. Much of what they teach concerning communication and connection with the music, and with your partner, is applicable to many forms of dance. They will teach American folk waltz, rather than Viennese or ballroom. No partner is necessary. For more information or questions, call 412-731-3436. Web site: http://www.pittsburghcontra.org.
.Swissvale, Pennsylvania - Waltz Session: Waltz Sesion at the Wilkins School Community Center, 7604 Charleston Avenue on various times and dates. Donation of $5 appreciated. Refreshments following at Wayne & Gaye's. For questions or more info., call 412-731-3436. Web site: None.
Titusville - Heart of the Arts Music Festival: Music festival with some dancing held at the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville in mid-July. Web site: http://www.hotafest.com/.
Titusville - Fidelia Hall: Dance at Fidelia Hall, 102 Brook St, Titusville, Pennsylvania 16354 from 6 PM – 9 PM. Community contra dancing - beginners welcome. $5-$20 Suggested Donation. Feel free to bring a snack to share. BYOB. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/fideliahall/.
Trooper - Techno Contra: Enjoy the exhilarating uninhibited exuberance of contra dancing surrounded by the warm embrace of colorful lighting to exciting, melodic, even edgy DJ'd music. Ignite your spirit with the thrilling figures and movements that will unleash your enjoyment and enhance your connection to the thoroughly engaging dance music. Location: YogaOne, in the Park Ridge Shopping Center, 4 Park Ave, Trooper, PA 19403 from 8pm to 11pm. A basic introductory lesson will be given at 7:30pm, before the dance. Students $10/Regular Admission $15. Volunteers dance for free! There will be fusion, blues and/or waltzing at the break. No partner or experience necessary. Please wear soft-soled shoes to protect the floor. This is a gender neutral dance reflected in the calling. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/events/342501646252045/ or https://www.yoga-one.co/.
Union City, Pennsylvania: Barn Dances at Barry's [Smith] Barn, 10323 Mitchell Road, Union City, Pa 16438. 7 PM Potluck Dinner- Bring a dish to share and BYOB. 8 PM Contra dancing. All skill levels and ages are welcome :-) Bring a friend. Be prepared for the possibility of mud, weather, and temperatures, though there are heaters in the barn. Please use the off-road parking that is available. $5-$15 donation requested. Web site: None.
Wellsboro: Join us for a community dancing experience in the social atmostphere of Contra Dancing! All ages are welcome! 7PM in the Coolidge Theatre, 104 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA, 16901. $5 admission. Web site: http://deanecenter.com.
Wellsville: Kenny's Contra Dance from 7pm to 11pm (beginners' workshop at 6:15pm) at the Wellsville Fire Hall, 95 Community Street, Wellsville, PA, 17365. Comfortable clothing, especially shoes. $10 for adults, $5 for students, 12 and under free. Web site: None.
West Chester, Pennsylvania: Occasional community dances at the Unitarian Fellowship of West Chester, 501 S High St. If You Can Walk, You Can Dance! All dances taught. No experience or partner necessary! All ages welcome! Admission $5 adults, $2 children ages 5-12 (under 5, free). The dress is comfortable and casual; shoes should be flat and soft-soled. Web site: http://www.ufwc.org/community_dance.htm.
West Chester - Squares - Roots Music and Dance: As part of our "Roots Music and Dance Series", neo-traditional square dances will be held at 580 West Creek Rd., West Chester, PA in our neighbor's big, old beautiful barn. At 2pm: Music workshops. Jamming in the gazebo and on the grounds. Open mic in the barn. 6pm: potluck dinner and free-style dance/concert. 7pm: square dance. 8pm: open dance jam on stage and more square dancing. Cost for the whole event is $20, cash at the door. Workshops are an additional $20. This is a rain or shine event. Due to insurance restrictions, you must be 21 to attend. We'll provide a fair amount of food and drink, it would be great if you can bring some also, along with extra chairs and booze. Web site: None.
Williamsport - Lycoming College: Mike Smith, a math prof at Lycoming College has, as his class final, the requirement that each student write a Contra dance. These dances will be danced by anyone who wants to have a fun evening of Contra dancing. Time is 6:30pm to 9:00pm at East Hall Coffeehouse Franklin Street, Across from St. Boniface Church. This is free, open to anyone, and should be a hoot!! More info? Contact Mike Smith: smithm@lycoming.edu - Web site: http://www.lycoming.edu.
Willow Grove: Philadelphia Area Techno Contra from 6:00pm to 11:00pm at the Calvary Presbyterian Church Gymnasium, 405 N Easton Rd. Willow Grove, PA. A five hour, intense contra dance event with special lighting and fantastic techno/traditional/modern/beat looped/ music. Cost for the event will be $20. $15 for students with ID. The hall will be darkened and illuminated with blacklight floodlights, color washes, and other suitable and interesting lighting effects. There will be two 1.5 hour dance sets and a 1 hour medley with .5 hour breaks. There will be a beginner lesson at 5:30 before the evening gets underway, but the event may be a bit intense for beginners. If you haven't been contra dancing before, go to a regular dance somewhere to get the idea. Pot-luck snack donations will be appreciated. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=206196312748888.
York: Susquehanna Folk is pleased to host a community square dance in collaboration with York's Downtown, Inc. as part of York's First Friday. First Friday is a monthly happening in downtown York, featuring kid-friendly activities, street vendors, games and giveaways, special entertainment, and extended hours and promotions at downtown shops. The hub of activity is the first block of North Beaver Street, between Market and Philadelphia Streets, one block west of Central Market and Cherry Lane Park where the square dance will be held. 6-8pm at Cherry Lane Park, behind Central Market House, 34 West Philadelphia St (Rt 72) at Cherry Lane, York, PA 17401. Web site: http://www.sfmsfolk.org/dances/CommunitySquareDance.html.
York - Elks Club: Dances from 7pm to 10pm at the Elks 223 North George St. York, PA. Sponsored by York Social Dance Studio. Open to the public like all of our dances :D Come out for a good old fashioned social dance country/folk style! No partner or experience required and families encouraged to attend. This is bound to be one of the most fun times you will have this year so be sure to be dressed appropriately for the occasion- break out your best pair of jeans, boots, and that plaid shirt or dress. We can't wait to laugh and dance with all of you! Doors open at 5:45. Buffet available for separate price tickets from 6-8 (will cost between 1.50-$5/person). Bar available for beverage purchases for those of age throughout the night. General Admission $10, students $7. Web site: https://www.facebook.com/yorksocial.dancestudio.
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.