What is Contra Dancing?

Contra dancing brings joy and laughter and friends into your life. It is fun beyond words.

Contra dancing is done to live music — guitar and fiddle and other instruments, playing jigs and reels.

A caller teaches each dance and tells you what to do. You just need to know how to walk! No need to bring a partner. Our dance uses gender-neutral role terms, and we strive to be a safe place for everyone to dance.

When: September 21st – 7:00pm – 10:00pm

Where: Banner Grange at 12629 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley, California

What to bring: We suggest light, comfortable clothing — expect to wear short sleeves or a tank top, even in winter. Please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to preserve our floor. Bring a water bottle to refill at our water fountain/bottle filler. Masks are optional.

So how does Contra Dancing work?

Contra dances are done in lines of couples. Beginners, singles, and all ages are welcome; all dances are taught. Each couple follows the calls, dancing with another couple.

After you and your partner have done the dance figures with one couple, you do them with the next couple in line.

By the end of the dance, you have danced with everyone in your set.

There are about 8 or 9 dances in an evening. The convention is to ask a different partner for each dance and to ask people you don’t know to dance.

You get to hear lively music, enjoy some exercise, meet your neighbors, and participate in a lively folk community and living tradition.

We are a friendly and open dance community. Whoever you are, we invite you to come share the joy of dancing with us!