This page tries to keep track of all contra dances in Washington including dance camps and weekends along with other events in Washington which include contra dancing. 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.
The family dance in Seattle on Sunday, January 15, 2012 has been canceled due to heavy snow downtown.
Anacortes - Ferry Boat Dance: Annual dance, sponsored by the Bellingham Country Dance Society, on an actual ferry boat from Anacortes to Friday Harbor and Back. Please bring food to share, carpool and please arrive early! Web site: http://www.nas.com/~mschway/bcds/.
Astoria - Columbia Riverkeeper - Square Dance: Appalachian Square Dance in the Loft of the Red Building, 20 Basin Street. The evening begins at 7:00 p.m. with a screening of Deep Down, "a story from the heart of coal country", followed by a panel discussion and then the dance. This event is sponsored by: Kentuckians for the Commonwealth, Columbia Riverkeeper and the Crag Law Center. Admission is free - suggested donation $5. Web site: http://www.columbiariverkeeper.org.
Bainbridge: All comers welcome! $12 adults, $5 teens at the door. Info: 360-697-6192 or c_capers@ yahoo.com. Island Center Hall, 8395 Fletcher Bay Road. Please wear clean soled shoes for dancing. 7:30pm-10:30pm. Web site: http://www.biparks.org/programsandclasses/special_events.html.
Bainbridge - Scandinavian: Enjoy Nordic and Scandinavian folk dancing to live music! Instruction available. Info (206) 842-4055. 6:00pm Potluck Supper; 7:00-11:00pm Dance. $7/Adults; non-dancing children free. Island Center Hall, 8395 Fletcher Bay Rd. Web site: http://www.biparks.org/programsandclasses/special_events.html.
Bellingham: The Bellingham Country Dance Society sponsors dances which are usually held at the historic Fairhaven Library, 1117 12th Street. Beginner's workshop starts at 7:00 PM with the dance starting at 7:30 PM and continuing until 10:30 PM. $8-10 donation. Please bring a reusable water bottle. Out of respect to those with chemical sensitivities, we ask folks not to wear perfumes or colognes to our dances. All dances are taught...if you can walk, you can dance. You don't have to bring a partner (but by all means, bring ALL of your friends!). No special costumes are required, however for comfort's sake (and to protect our new floor), we suggest wearing comfortable soft-soled non-street shoes and loose-fitting clothing. (Note: the clothing actually has very little to do with the floor, but the choice of shoes definitely does.) Dancing is always to live music. Web site: http://www.nas.com/~mschway/bcds/.
Bellingham - New Year's Eve: Special New Year's Eve Dance sponsored by the Bellingham Country Dance Society at the historic Fairhaven Library, 1117 12th Street. $8-10 donation. Please bring a reusable water bottle. Out of respect to those with chemical sensitivities, we ask folks not to wear perfumes or colognes to our dances. All dances are taught...if you can walk, you can dance. You don't have to bring a partner (but by all means, bring ALL of your friends!). No special costumes are required, however for comfort's sake (and to protect our new floor), we suggest wearing comfortable soft-soled non-street shoes and loose-fitting clothing. (Note: the clothing actually has very little to do with the floor, but the choice of shoes definitely does.) Dancing is always to live music. Web site: http://www.nas.com/~mschway/bcds/.
Bellingham - Wild Buffalo - Squares: Square Dance at the Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St. It's a 21+ show, starting at 8pm with $5 admission. Web site: http://wildbuffalo.net/.
Bothell - Squares: Bothell Library Square Dance from 7pm to 9pm at 18215 98th Ave NE Bothell, WA 98011. Web site: http://www.thetallboys.com.
Cashmere - Wenatchee River Bluegrass Festival: Annual music festival held on the 3rd weekend in June at the Chelan County Expo Center. Includes workshops and a contra dance. Web site: http://www.cashmerecoffeehouse.com/wrbfest.htm.
Centralia - Old-Time Music Campout: Held in mid- August. Imagine warm summer days, a beautiful river front setting while jamming all day long for more than a whole week! There won't be any contests, stages, performers, or schedules to keep track of. This is a relaxed event for musicians who like lots of jamming and hanging out with old and new friends. Spontaneous, participant organized activities, such as a cocktail party, a square dance (yes, I built a dance floor!), a birthday party, a cornfeed or a hamburger and bacon feed, could occur at any moment. Web site: http://www.centraliacampout.com/.
Cheney - Eastern Washington University: EWU Contra Dance at the Eastern Washington University Pence Union Building (PUB) Multi Purpose Room (MPR) from 7:00pm to 10:00pm with a starter's class at 6:45. Admission free with an Eastern ID, $5 for Spokane Folklore Society members, $8 for general public. Web site: http://www.ewu.edu.
Ellensburg: Dances occur on the 1st Saturdays of December, February, April and May at the Hal Holmes Community Center, 209 North Ruby Street from 7:30-10:30 pm. All dances taught. Live music. Everyone is welcome, at any level of experience. No dress code-- anything goes. Free admission, thanks to the Ellensburg Public Library. Co-sponsored by Kittitas County Contra Dancers and the Ellensburg Public Library. Web site: http://www.fairpoint.net/~eburgcontradance/.
Ellensburg - Teanaway River Festival: Afternoon and evening of river-centered activities (flying fishing demonstration, kayak raffle, activities for kids, etc.) with music and a contra dance in the evening. Dinner ($10) available. Sponsored by the Washington Water Trust. Web site: http://washingtonwatertrust.org.
Everson - Everson-Nooksack Summer Festival: A dance, beginning at 7:30pm at the Glen Echo Community Club, 7694 Goodwin Road, is part of multitude of varied events during this weekend in the first half of July. For more information, call 966-3407 or 966-7370 Web site: http://eversonnooksackchamber.org.
Goldendale - Mid-Columbia Folklore Society Simcoe Mountain Music and Dance Weekend: Held in mid-September at Brooks Memorial State Park. Located on Hwy 97, just north of Goldendale WA at Satus Pass. Register in advance. Web site: http://community.gorge.net/mcfs/simcoe.htm.
Kennewick: Three Rivers Folklife sponsors dances on the fourth Saturday of each month from September through April. Unless noted otherwise, dances are held at Shuffler's Shanty, 717 N Irving Street and begin at 7:30PM. Admission: adults $8, students/seniors $6, 12 years and under free. All dances are taught. No experience necessary, no partner necessary. Just come and have fun! NOTE: 3RFS Contra dances take a break May-August. Web site: http://www.3rfs.org/contra.htm.
Kirkland: A new community dance series will be held every second Saturday at the Juanita Community Club, 13027 100th Ave. The evening will be primarily contradances - a social dance form originally from New England. Dances are presented by a caller with a live band of traditional folk musicians. A walk-through is provided for each dance. Attending with a partner is not necessary. Beginner contradance instruction starts at 7:30 p.m. and the dance gets into full swing by 8 p.m. Free ice cream is provided during the break. Admission is $8 at the door; $4 for student with an ID. Information: 425-605-0804. Web site: http://www.folkhorizons.org.
Kittias - Washington Old Time Fiddlers Association Workshop Five-day, weekday workshop with intensive music workshops and other activities. Register in advance. Some dancing (squares, contras) probably occurs. Web site: http://www.wotfa.org/workshop.html.
Leavenworth - Winter Fiddlers' Retreat: Enjoy fiddling with friends &: family in a beautiful retreat at this brand new, family friendly event featuring workshops on repertoire and fiddle technique (plus some other instruments), accompaniment, old time country dancing and plenty of opportunities for jamming plus dancing and a workshop on leading and calling community dances. Location: Icicle Creek Music Center. Register in advance. Web site: http://sarahcomer.com/default.aspx.
Leavenworth - Wild and Scenic Music Festival: Mostly music festival with a square dance held in late August at Icicle Creek Music Center, 7409 Icicle Road. Web site: http://www.wildandscenicmusicfest.com.
Lynnwood - Family Skandia: Come join the merriment as children's laughter, smiles and small dancing feet fill the Grange Hall on Friday, April 1st for the Skandia Family Dance! The party will begin at 6 p.m. with pizza, salad and drinks (as long as supplies last) for those coming directly from work or school. Both young and old alike will learn how to finger-weave, and in other corners of the room traditional Scandinavian instruments will be available so little ones can experience up close the magical sounds. Kids also will have the opportunity to color Scandinavian-themed pages of costumes, trolls and Vikings, and cut and weave paper heart baskets. At 7 p.m., musicians will lead the party-goers upstairs, where the callers will lead the group in an hour and a half of enthusiastic participatory dancing. Dances will be geared for everyone ages 4 and up - no dance experience is necessary! So bring your children, grandchildren, nieces/nephews or neighborhood kids and experience an evening that will surely bring a smile to your face and renewed energy to your own dancing. See you there! Location: Cedar Valley Grange in Lynnwood, 20526 52nd Ave. West, Lynnwood. $10; Skandia members $7; kids free. Contact Silje Sodal at SiljeS@skandia-folkdance.org if you have any questions or would like to volunteer. Web site: http://skandia-folkdance.org.
Olympia - 1st, 2nd and 4th Saturdays: Dances at the South Bay Grange, 3918 Sleater-Kinney Road. Non-dancing children are welcome if they are under your supervision and control. They must stay in the dancing area. Admission Price: $8.00 at the door. Newcomer's workshop begins at 7:30. Dance 8:00-11:00. No experience is necessary! All the dances will be taught. Come alone or bring a friend. Grange rules prohibit smoking or alcohol in the building. For everyone's comfort, please leave the fragrances at home. Web site: http://www.olympiadance.org/.
Olympia - Family Square Dance: We will be having a family dance and cakewalk from 1-4pm at The Loft on Cherry, at the corner of Legion and Cherry Streets. Web site: http://www.olyoldtime.org/index.htm.
Olympia - Old-Time Music Festival: Music and dance workshops and events. Held in mid-February. Web site: http://www.olyoldtime.org/index.htm.
Olympia - New Year's Eve: Dances at the South Bay Grange, 3918 Sleater-Kinney Road. Non-dancing children are welcome if they are under your supervision and control. They must stay in the dancing area. Admission Price: $8.00 at the door. Newcomer's workshop begins at 7:30. Dance 8:00-11:00. No experience is necessary! All the dances will be taught. Come alone or bring a friend. Grange rules prohibit smoking or alcohol in the building. For everyone's comfort, please leave the fragrances at home. Web site: http://www.olympiadance.org/.
Olympia - Special: Dances at the South Bay Grange, 3918 Sleater-Kinney Road. Non-dancing children are welcome if they are under your supervision and control. They must stay in the dancing area. Admission Price: $10.00 at the door. Dance from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. No experience is necessary! All the dances will be taught. Come alone or bring a friend. Grange rules prohibit smoking or alcohol in the building. For everyone's comfort, please leave the fragrances at home. Web site: http://www.olympiadance.org/.
Olympia - Remembering Warren: Series of events celebrating the life of Warren Argo. South Bay Grange, 3918 Sleater-Kinney Rd. NE. Web site: None.
Olympia - Evergreen College: Dances at the gym at Evergreen College at 7:30pm. No partner is necessary, and there will be a half-hour beginner session at 7:30, followed by dancing from 8-10:30, all of which will take place in the back bay of the CRC Gym. Please come fragrance free for those who are sensitive. Water will be provided! Web site (although not up to date as of November 11, 2010: http://sites.google.com/site/evergreencontradance/.
Olympia - Prosperity Grange - Squares : Square dance at Prosperity Grange, 3701 Steamboat Island Road. Dance at 7pm, 6:30pm carpool from Westside Coop. $5 suggested donation to benefit *POWER: Parents Organizing for Welfare and Economic Rights. Web site: None.
Olympia - Groovy Universe Weekend - Benefit for the Warren Argo Travel Scholarship Fund: A mix of English, contras and squares during the weekend at the South Bay Grange. Web site: http://www.olympiadance.org/.
Olympia - Squares - Olympia Old-Time Music Festival Benefit: Square Dance at the The Olympia Ballroom, 116 Legion Way, SW, Olympia, WA from 7:30pm-10:30pm. Web site: http://www.smalltimestringband.com/Smalltime_String_Band/Performance_Schedule.html.
Orcas Island - Odd Fellows Hall: The dance will run from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Cost is $5 at the door; kids under 16 are free. All dances will be taught, and no partner is necessary. For more information, call Linda Ellsworth at 376-2154, or email sandboa51@msn.com. Web site: http://www.oddshall.org/.
Orcas Island - Summer Camp: Informal, volunteer four-day staff-less dance and music camp - whoever comes to camp plays music for dances, calls, or dances. Held in early August on Orcas Island at Camp Moran as an "all ages, all dancers, all musicians, all folks welcome" dance camp! Bring the family, and bring your talents and interests to share! Register in advance. Web site: http://www.januscom.com/summercamp/Welcome.html.
Orcas Island - Seed Bank: FoodMasters organization will host a contra dance at the Odd Fellows' Hall for the Orcas Island Seed Bank. The eveningÕs events will include dancing, live cider pressing and a pie and ice cream sale. A beginner's lesson will be taught from 7:30 to 8 p.m., then the dancing will commence until 11 p.m. The cover charge is $10. A table at the event will offer information on the Seed Bank and FoodMasters. Donations of apples for the cider pressing are invited. For more information, contact Learner Limbach at foodmasters.orcas@gmail.com - Web site: http://www.oddshall.org/.
Pasco - Sacajawea Bluegrass Festival: Come join us on the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers at Sacajawea State Park for the Sacajawea Bluegrass Festival and Dutch Oven Rendezvous. Sacajawea State Park is located near the Tri-Cities (Richland, Kennewick and Pasco, WA) just off Highway 12 east of Pasco. Workshops, concerts and a square dance. Web site: http://www.sacajaweabluegrass.org/.
Port Angeles - Black Diamond: Dances on 1st Saturdays beginning at 7:30pm at the Black Diamond Community Hall, 1942 Black Diamond Road. 7:30 Workshop; 8:00 PM Dance. Requested Donation: $6 (under 18 - $2). Live Band and Caller. All dances taught. Beginners welcome. No need to bring a partner, there will be plenty of dancers to partner with. For more info contact Tom at tom at shindler dot us. Web site: http://www.blackdiamonddance.org.
Port Falls: Contra Dancing at the Post Falls Library! Free, one hour dance at 7PM the Post Falls Library will be having an outdoor contra dance! Come and check it out! The library is located just North of the Freeway off the Spokane Street Exit. 821 N. Spokane Street, Post Falls. For a fun evening in a new setting, come and join us! Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org.
Port Townsend - 2nd Saturday: Dances at the Quimper Grange #720, 1219 Corona Street. Contra dance with great live music and callers. Dance begins at 7:30pm and ends at 10:30pm Every dance is taught. Admission is $8, or only $3 for ages 16 and under. Smoke, alcohol and fragrance free. For more information, contact Jo Yount joyountatolypen [dot] com or at (360)385-0456. Web site: http://olympicpeninsuladance.com/event/second-saturday-contra-dance-quimper-grange or http://ptcommunitydance.blogspot.com.
Port Townsend - 5th Saturday - Square Dance: Dances at the Quimper Grange #720, 1219 Corona Street. Contra dance with great live music and callers. New dancers have an opportunity to learn the basics from more experienced dancers starting at 7:30pm. Dance begins at 8:00pm. Every dance is taught. Admission is $6, or only $3 for ages 3 to 18. The wee dance for free. Smoke, alcohol and fragrance free. For more information, contact Jo Yount joyountatolypen [dot] com or at (360)385-0456. Web site: http://ptcommunitydance.blogspot.com.
Port Townsend - 1st Saturday - Square Dance: Dances at the Quimper Grange #720, 1219 Corona Street. Square dance with great live music and callers. Dancing will begin at 7:30. Beginners welcome; all dances are taught. $6.00 for adults; $3.00 for youth; 6 or younger are free; show your your Grange membership card and admission is free! Smoke, alcohol and fragrance free. For more information, contact Jo Yount joyountatolypen [dot] com or at (360)385-0456. Web site: http://ptcommunitydance.blogspot.com.
Port Townnsend - Festival of American Fiddle Tunes - Workshops: Held at the Fort Worden State Park in very late June and early July, the festival workshops are a week-long, total-immersion workshop with a hallmark of presenting an expansive array of regional fiddle styles. Workshops, classes, band labs, tutorials, dances, concerts, singing, open jams, hat parties - all contribute to a week of living, learning, and jamming with masters of North American fiddling traditions. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.centrum.org/fiddle/ft-description.html.
Port Townsend - Festival of American Fiddle Tunes - Concerts: Held in conjunction with the week-long set of workshops in early July, the concerts feature of a variety of fiddle styles and cultures and sometimes include a dance. Web site: http://www.centrum.org/fiddle/.
Port Townsend - New Year's Eve: Special New Year's Eve dance at the Quimper Grange #720, 1219 Corona Street. All proceeds to benefit the Grange. BYO non-alcohol Refreshments/ Deserts for Midnight Celebration. Suggested Donation $6.00. Dance goes from 8:00pm to Midnight. Web site: http://ptcommunitydance.blogspot.com/.
Port Townsend - Over the Water Hurdy-Gurdy Festival: Week-long music program (with a little dancing) at Fort Flagler State Park is on Marrowstone Island near Port Townsend. Held in mid-September. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.overthewater.org/.
.Port Townsend - Special: Special dances at the Quimper Grange #720, 1219 Corona Street. Contra dance with great live music and callers. New dancers have an opportunity to learn the basics from more experienced dancers starting at 7:30pm. Every dance is taught. Admission is $8, or only $3 for ages 16 and under. Smoke, alcohol and fragrance free. For more information, contact Jo Yount joyountatolypen [dot] com or at (360)385-0456. Web site: http://olympicpeninsuladance.com.
Richland - Tumbleweeds Folk Festival: Presented by the Three Rivers Folklife Society and Co-sponsored by The City of Richland and held on Labor Day (U.S.) weekend in early September. Music, some dancing and other activities. Web site: http://www.3rfs.org/tmf.htm.
Seattle - Beacon Hill Harvest Fair: Celebrate Fall with food, art, music, and dance from 2pm to 9pm at the Garden House/ Web site: http://www.rockitspace.org/harvest-fair.html.
Seattle - Dancing Fool - Winter Weekend: Dance weekend (this is high-energy contradancing: fast, some complex, little or no walkthrough, no workshops (not suitable for beginners). Hard-core contra) held in early February at the Leif Erikson Hall, 2245 NW 57th St. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.DancingFool.net/.
Seattle - Dancing Fool - Fall Weekend: Dance weekend (this is high-energy contradancing: fast, some complex, little or no walkthrough, no workshops (not suitable for beginners). Hard-core contra) held in October at the Leif Erikson Hall, 2245 NW 57th St. Register in advance. Web site: http://www.DancingFool.net/.
Seattle - 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.bubbaguitar.com/d2bs/.
Seattle - Emerald City: Dances are each Friday at the Phinney Neighborhood Center 6532 Phinney North, in the "Community Hall" (brick building off lower parking lot). The dance is from 7:30pm to 10:00pm with a beginner's workshop at 7:00. Admission is $8, $7 for SFS and PNA members and seniors, $5 for students, under 16 free. First time contra dancers get a coupon for free admission to their next dance. Coupon redemption limited to first five coupons on any single night. All dances taught. No partner necessary. Light, comfortable clothing recommended. Please do not wear cologne, perfume or other strongly scented products. Thanks! Our hall has strict capacity limits. We occasionally need to limit entry due to high attendance. See the web site about capacity limits. Info: 206-440-9839 or emeraldcitycontra@pobox.com Web site: http://seattledance.org/contra/emeraldcity.
Seattle - Family: All dances taught - no experience necessary! Dances geared for families with children ages 10 and under. Food allergy aware event - healthy snack provided (usually fruit). Sponsored by the Seattle Folklore Society (SFS). Held at OmCulture, 2210 N. Pacific St. 3:00-5:00 PM, $6 per person or $18 a family ($5 per person, $15 per family with SFS membership). Info:amy@treebo.com, 634-3224. Join our Yahoo group for updates, changes and cancellations. Hope to see you there! Web site: http://seattledance.org/family or http://omculture.com.
Seattle - Green Lake: Summer series of outdoor dances at Green Lake on the grass on the north side of the lake (closest intersection is Wallingford Avenue N and East Greenlake Drive N.. just east of the wading pool). Come picnic, jam, socialize, anytime after 6. Dancing will start at approximately 7PM (dances later in the summer may have an earlier start time) and continue until darkness or exhaustion sets in. Open calling and open band (but musicians should bring their own chairs). Web site: None.
Seattle - Lake City: Contra/Old Time Country Dance every Thursday at the Lake City Community Center, 12531 - 28th Ave NE from 8:00pm till 11:00pm with a free introductory "dance skills" workshop every week at 7:30pm. Admission $8 (students & seniors $5, (Please note: the student/senior rate will be $6 starting on January 1, 2011.) kids & first-time contradancers free). Please respect the health needs of many dancers and come fragrance-free. For more information call 206-525-0932. Web site: http://seattledance.org/contra/lakecity.
Seattle - Northwest Folklife Festival: Held on Memorial Day (U.S.) weekend in late May with a wide variety of types of music, dancing and other activities in Seattle Center. Web site: http://www.nwfolklifefestival.org/.
Seattle - Squares - Monday: Usually on the 2nd & 4th Mondays of the month, doors open 7:30PM, dancing starts at 8PM. No experience needed, all dances taught by a different caller each month. Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Ave NW, 21+, $6. Email - charmaine@thetallboys.com Web site: http://www.thetallboys.com.
Seattle - Squares - Folklife Benefit: Special benefit square dance for the Northwest Folklife Festival. No experience needed. Dance is from 7pm to 11pm at the Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Ave NW, 21+. Email - charmaine@thetallboys.com Web site: http://www.thetallboys.com.
Seattle - Squares - Century Ballroom: Occasional urban square dances from 8:30pm to 11:00pm, 21+, admission $7 at the Century Ballroom (West Hall), 915 E Pine 2nd floor. Web site: http://www.centuryballroom.com/.
Seattle - Squares - Halloween: Special Halloween Square Dance at Community Fitness, 2113 NE 65th Street, from 8pm to 11pm. No experience necessary. Web site: http://www.thetallboys.com.
Seattle - Subversive Square Dance: Dances on various dates at the Second Breakfast House, 6858 20th Avenue, NE. Potluck at 7pm, dancing at 8pm. Web site: http://www.oldtimeseattle.com/ssss.html.
Seattle - Open Band: Dances are held at the Gift of Grace Lutheran - 2102 N 40th in the Wallingford Neighborhood. There is a potluck at 5:00pm with dancing from 6:00pm to 8:30pm. Cost: $5 per person, $10 per family. The is an open-band contra dance, featuring an open mic for callers, preceded by a potluck supper (please bring a dish to share, as well as your own plates and utensils). It's a supportive place to dance, call, and make music - beginners welcome! The band and the callers' open mic are led and hosted by a different favorite local musician and caller each month. Please join us! For more information: valjc(at)juno.com, 206-784-5788. Web site: http://seattledance.org/contra/open.
Seattle - Rainbow Contra: Lesson at 3pm and dance from 3:30pm-6:00pm at The Dance Underground, 340-15th Avenue East, Capitol Hill/Seattle, Washington for LGBTQ folks and friends and all who want to dance. General admission $10. We suggest bringing water and fragrance free as always. Web site: http://seattledance.org/contra/rainbow.
Seattle - Techno: Special dance from 8:30pm (doors open at 8:00pm) to midnight at Sonny Newman's Dance Hall, 201 North 85th Street, with a live caller and a DJ playing recorded music. Advanced dance, no walk-throughs. Admission: Pre-sale tickets: $15; At the door ticket: $20. Making reservations in advance helps the organizers. Many more details at the web site. Web site: http://seattledance.org/contra/techno.
Seattle - EMPSFM: The Experience Music Project, the Science Fiction Museum and the Northwest Folklife Festival prsent a family day of old time fiddling from 10am to 5pm at EMP|SFM 325 5th Avenue North. Free to EMP|SFM members or with paid admission. Web site: http://www.empsfm.org.
Seattle - Crown Hill - Halloween: Sustainable Crown Hill presents Halloween Hoedown 2010 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Crown Hill Activity Center, 9250 14th Ave NW. Sustainable Crown Hill and the North Seattle Lapidary and Mineral Club have teamed up with local musicians and caller Sherry Nevins to create an all ages costume dance followed by a flashlight treasure hunt for rocks (obsidian, petrified wood, geodes, jade...). Highlights: Potluck Meal at 5:30 PM - finger foods, leave the nuts at home!; Old Time Family Dance 6:00 to 7:00 PM; Flashlight Treasure Hunt 7:00 to 7:30 PM. Sustainable Crown Hill supports waste reduction (bring plates, cups, utensils). Suggested Donation: $2 per person/ $5 per family. Web site: http://sustainablecrownhill.org/.
Seattle - Sustainable - Square Dance: The dance is part of a series of day-long, hands-on activities at the Ravenna (65th & Ravenna Ave) and Meadowbrook (35th Ave NE & NE 105th) Community Centers, a late afternoon/early evening potluck and then the dance at the Meadowbrook Community Center from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. Web site: http://sustainableneseattle.ning.com/.
Seattle - Gypsy Music Cafe - Squares: Square Dance from 8pm to 11pm at the Cafe, 3510 Stone Way North. Generally, 3rd Fridays. 206-632-0647. Web site: http://www.gypsymusiccafe.com/.
Seattle - Beacon Hill: Come dust the floors in a beautiful ballroom on Beacon Hill! Old Time Barn Dance at 2336 15th Av S, just north of the junction on Beacon Hill. Doors open at 7:00pm, dance starts at 7:30pm. $5 general, free to Rockit Members and kids under 12. This is part of our ongoing series of a Last Tuesday Folk Club, in a new and improved location. This hall is underused and could be great for medium sized dances in the south end. There are beautiful gardens, wraparound porches and a gazebo, and potential jamming spaces. Please come and kick up your heels! All dances taught, all ages, no experience or partner necessary. Guaranteed fun for everyone! Web site: http://www.rockitspace.org/tuesday-folk-club.html.
Seattle - Waltz - Century Ballroom: Dances at the Century Ballroom, 915 E Pine, 2nd Floor from 1:00pm to 3:30pm, generally on 4th Sundays. Admission $12. Web site: http://www.centuryballroom.com.
Seattle - McDonald Elementary School PTA: McDonald families new and old -- get your tickets for our first ever McDonald Family Dance. Admission of $25 per family kicks off our summer language immersion assistants fund drive. Also, there will be a silent auction with some pretty amazing items. School address: 4400 Interlake Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103-7519. Time: 6pm to 8pm. Web site: http://www.mcdonaldpta.org.
Seattle - Squares - Epiphany Church: Square dance at the Epiphany Church and School in the Madrona neighborhood from 6:30 'till 8:00, at 1805 38th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122. Web site: None.
Seattle - Squares - Power Tower: The Seattle Subversive Square Dance Society sponsors this square dance by the Power Tower at the Ewing Street Mini Park, 3rd Avenue West and West Ewing Street, Seattle, WA 98119. Potluck at 6pm, Music at 7:30pm. By the South Side of the Ship Canal on the Bike Trail. Web site: http://www.oldtimeseattle.com/ssss.html.
Seattle - Squares - GreenwoodStock: The annual Greenwoodstock free neighborhood music fest is happening from 5:00 to 9:30PM. The location is the corner of 6th Ave NW and NW 76th ST at "Our Park." The block between 76th and 77th will be closed to traffic for gathering and dancing in the street. The theme this year is Americana music, with square dancing led by caller Sherry Nevins. Wear your favorite cowboy boots and hat! Bring along your beach blanket or folding chairs for an evening of fun. The event is family, kids, neighbor and pet friendly. Don't forget your applause, smiles, and tips for the wonderful bands that have offered up for free their time and talents. Stephen McClelland has again kindly shared his courtyard for the bandstand. Chef Tiberio Simone will be making his famous pizza again! Web site: None.
Seattle - Squares - SHARE Homeless Shelter Benefit: Benefit dance from 7:00pm to 9:30pm ant the University Friends Meeting 4001 9th Ave NE (near the north end of University Bridge). Special performances by the Abrahamson Boyz & Peterkoids and Homemade Desserts at the break! Web site: None.
Seattle - Squares - Sunday: Dances at the Village Ballroom, 700 Northeast Dekum Street. Admission: $7, sliding scale, no maximum. Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm. Web site: http://www.bubbaguitar.com/sundaysquares/index.html.
Seattle - Folk Festival: Music festival with some dancing and workshops held at various venues including the Columbia City Theater, Town Hall Seattle, and other locales in the first half of December. Web site: http://www.seattlefolkfestival.com/.
Seattle - Mt. Baker Coop Preschool Benefit: Family from 10:30 a.m. Ð 12:30 p.m. at the Mount Baker Community Club, 2811 Mount Rainier Drive S, Seattle, WA. Dance to live music and learn simple group and line dances for children. All ages welcome Ð fun for the whole family! Entry fee: $3 per person. Purchase a treat when you get hungry Ð food provided by BluWater Bistro, Mioposto Pizzeria, and Starbucks! Bid on cool prizes at our low-key silent auction Ð over 50 items donated by local merchants! All proceeds go to the schoolÕs scholarship fund. Cash or check only, please. Please feel free to invite family and friends Ð all are welcome! Web site: http://www.mountbakerpreschool.org/community-events.
Spokane - Wednesdays: Dances, sponsored by the Spokane Folklore Society, are held on every Wednesday in the nonsummer months there are Contra dances at the Women's Club at 9th and Walnut (just off Maple) on the lower South hill of Spokane. For a small admission fee ($7 general admission and $5 for SFS members and students (with ID)), you get live music, a skilled caller, and congenial companions. It can be a fun thing to do as a couple, or you can come by yourself and find a partner there. Dance Instruction 7:00 PM Dance 7:30-9:30 PM. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org/contra.html.
Spokane - 2nd Saturdays: Dances, sponsored by the Spokane Folklore Society, are held on the 2nd Saturday of the month at the East Spokane Grange of N 1621 Park Rd. For a small admission fee: $8.00 members - $10.00 non-members. Children accompanied by an adult are admitted FREE. You get live music, a skilled caller, and congenial companions. The dance runs from 7 to 10 PM with a lesson for beginnersat 6:45. There will be potluck snacks at the breakIt can be a fun thing to do as a couple, or you can come by yourself and find a partner there. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org/contra.html.
Spokane - Special: A special dance on a special day/night. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org/contra.html.
Spokane - Civil War Ball: Spokane's Annual Civil War Ball (contra dance) from 7:00pm to 9:30pm at St. Francis of Assisi Social Hall, 4420 N. Jefferson. $10 per person prepay, $15 at the door, $7 per child pre pay; $10 at the door. All are welcome period dress (1860's) encouraged. Potluck from 5:00pm to 6:00pm. RSVP or questions please contact Sue or Larry LaRue @ the2larues@msn.com. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org.
Spokane - Folk Festival: Sponsored by the Spokane Folklore Society and held in mid-November at the Spokane Community College (The Lair), N. 1810 N. Greene Street with a variety of music, dancing, crafts, etc. Web site: http://spokanefolkfestival.org/.
Spokane - New Year's Eve: Dance is from 8:30pm to midnight at the Spokane Women's Club, 1428 W. 9th Avenue, Spokane, WA. Price: Members and students: $10; non-members $12. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org.
Spokane - First Night: Dance is part of Spokane's First Night celebration. Web site: http://www.firstnightspokane.org/.
Spokane - Sandpoint: Sandpoint Contra Dances this spring will be held at the Sandpoint Community Hall (on South First Avenue across from the Courthouse). Please come and help get a new dance series rolling! We hope to resume the second Friday schedule in September. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org/contra.html.
Spokane - Techno Contra: There's a new dance sensation sweeping the contra nation! Known as Techno Contra or Crossover Contra, folks in the trendier contra hotspots have been discovering that you can dance contra to just about anything. Techno Contra is not meant replacement the live folk band experience, it is an experience in and of itself. And we are getting on board the techno train people! Dance at the East Spokane Grange with the Spokane Folklore Society hosting its first (annual?) Techno Contra Masquerade! Come decked out in your most fabulous and be prepared to swing, alaman, a promenade, under the glittering and glow of blacklights and disco balls. We will be carousing to the sounds of a live DJ and traditional caller. Web site: http://spokanefolklore.org.
Spokane - National Square Dance Convention (2012): Squares, rounds and contras during this multi-day event. Web site: http://61nsdc.com/.
Tacoma - 3rd Saturday: Dances are held at Christ Church Wells Hall, 310 North K Street and sponsored by the Tacoma Country Dance Society. We dance every month on the "third Saturday" each month, except for November and December, when we dance on a Sunday afternoon and on New Year's Eve. Live and exciting traditional music. Singles, couples, and families are welcome. No need to bring a partner. No experience needed--all dances are taught on the spot. Workshops for newcomers before most dances. Alcohol-free, smoke-free, and fragrance-free. Web site: http://www.tacomacontradance.org/.
Tacoma - 5th Saturday: Dances at Wells Hall. Singles, couples, first-timers, and experienced dancers; All are Welcome. No partner needed; Alcohol and smoke-free; Workshop for newcomers (see below.) We have a great time, dancers, caller, and musicians too! All sponsored by the Seattle Folklore Society. For more information please contact: Phil Katz - philkatz@ZZZhalcyon.com - 206 722 8228. (You know what to do with the Z's). Web site: http://seattledance.org/contra/fifthsat.
Tacoma - New Year's Eve: Special New Year's Eve dance at Christ Church Wells Hall, 310 North K Street and sponsored by the Tacoma Country Dance Society. Live and exciting traditional music. Singles, couples, and families are welcome. No need to bring a partner. No experience needed--all dances are taught on the spot. Workshops for newcomers before most dances. Alcohol-free, smoke-free, and fragrance-free. Web site: http://www.tacomacontradance.org/.
Tacoma - Dickens Festival Contra: Dance is a part of the Dickens Festival which begins at noon. The Dance is held at the Titus-Will showroom, 633 Division Avenue, across from Wright Park. The ball is from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, including hors d'oeuvres, wine, music, and dance. $15 admission, or $10 to dancers in Victorian costume. Here are suggestions: Men: dark pants, light shirt, bow tie preferable, maybe a vest and hat. Women: dark skirt, blouse with high neckline, hat, bonnet, or scarf. Keep it simple and improvise! Other info: Matt, 253/752-6483 or handsfour@harbornet.com. Join us after the dance in the historic Stadium District to carry on the party! 7:30-8:00 contra dance workshop; 8:00-11:00 contra dance. Web site: http://www.tacomacontradance.org/.
Vancouver: Dances at the Hazel Dell Grange, 7509 NE Hazel Dell Avenue from 7:30pm to 11:00pm. Lesson at 7:30pm, dance 8:00 - 11:00 pm. Admission: $7 / $5 for 65 or over, and under 12. Special note for Portland contra dancers: Come dance with us -- only 10 miles from downtown Portland! Vancouver is just across the border, and no passport or security check is required for entry into Washington state. Web site: http://www.contra-van-wa.org/.
Vancouver - Hazel Dell Grange: Dance to benefit the Grange at 7509 NE Hazel Dell Avenue. $5 admission with a dance lesson at 7:00pm and the dance going from 7:30pm to 11:00pm. Contact Sue Gray 360-750-0113 (suegray@pacifier.com) or Chlovena Byrd 360-603-6888 (chlometzger@aol.com). Web site: None.
Vashon Island - Northwest New Year's Camp - Bash on Vashon: Held, as you might expect, during New Year's Eve/New Year's Day, the Bash on Vashon is for all ages and experience levels. It taps the talents of its participants. All events are led by campers with minimal organization provided. Adults and kids can contribute in many ways: by sharing a song or a story, teaching a dance or singing game, leading a craft or playing in a band. You may want to help organize a special event, lead a nature hike, play or call for the evening dance. There's a core of contradance and music workshops taught by our talented local participants. Register in advance. Web site: http://bashonvashon.org/.
Walla Walla - Pioneer Park: Dances sponsored by the Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music at Pioneer Park from 7:30 - 9:00 pm. Free admission. Outdoor dance. Contras, squares, and other dances will be taught by callers. No experience necessary. Web site: http://fam.bmi.net/.
Walla Walla - Unity Church: Dances sponsored by the Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music at the Unity Church, 810 "C" Street from 7:30 - 10:30 pm with instruction for beginners: 7:00 p.m. Admission $ 5.00, $ 3.00 WWFAM members. Please bring finger foods to share. Apple cider will be provided. Contras, squares, and other dances will be taught by callers. No experience necessary. Please no lug boots or narrow heel shoes. Web site: http://fam.bmi.net/.
Walla Walla - Unity Church - New Year's Eve: Special dance sponsored by the Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music at the Unity Church, 810 "C" Street. Please bring finger foods to share. Apple cider will be provided. Contras, squares, and other dances will be taught by callers. No experience necessary. Please no lug boots or narrow heel shoes. Web site: http://fam.bmi.net/.
Walla Walla - Whitman Mission: Dances sponsored by the Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music at the at Whitman Mission National Historic Site from from 7:30 - 9:30 pm on the lawn. Come bring a picnic and enjoy the mission grounds, then dance under the stars. Contras, squares, and other dances will be taught. No experience necessary. There will be instruction for beginners. Watermelon will be provided! There is no admission charged. Web site: http://fam.bmi.net/.
Walla Walla - Whitman College: Dances on 1st Wednesdays from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Whitman College Ballroom at Reid Campus Center, Park & Boyer. There is no admission price for the dance, though a donations jar will be available. Web site: http://fam.bmi.net/fsch1.html.
Walla Walla - Weekend: Contra dances Friday and Saturday night, Saturday workshops, lunch & dinner, wine tasting. Workshops will include English country dancing, squares, contras, couple dancing, and a musicians' workshop. Registration info at www.wallawalladance.blogspot.com, email clarkdn@charter.net, phone 509-522-0399. Sponsored by Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music. Web site: http://www.walladance.org/.
White Center - Jubilee Days - Squares: Dance is part of the Jubilee Day's Street Fair in White Center! Dance is from 7:30-9PM - on 17th Ave SW, between Roxbury and 100th Ave. Dance will be on the mainstage - all dances taught, no experience needed. Free and everyone welcome!! Web site: http://jubileedays.org/.
Yakima: Dances at the Broadway Grange, West Washington & South 10th Avenues, on 2nd Saturdays, October through May from 8pm to 11pm with a newcomer session at 7:30pm Admission: $6.00 donation at the door, students $3.00. Everyone welcome. Come alone or bring friends; no partner necessary. Excellent activity for singles! All dances taught. More info: 509-966-0044. Contact: sheltonj48@msn.com. Web site: None.
Yakima Folklife Festival: The Yakima Folklife Association holds the festival in early-mid July at a variety of venues including the Yakima Valley Museum and adjacent Franklin Park. All events are free to the public. Web site: http://www.yakimafolklife.org/.
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 Iowa link will bring you to the Central Iowa Barn Dance Association. 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 Louisiana, Mississippi, South Dakota or Wyoming, but I have created pages if something changes in the future.