Contra Dance is an American folk community dance form that is energetic, social, and lots of fun. There is no simple way to describe contra dancing.
No experience necessary. You don't need a partner, but bring one if you've got one (and more friends too). Come try it out!
Follow some of the links below for descriptions, instructional and informational videos and some audio tidbits as well.
Please note that these links will open in a new window or tab.
Wikipedia entry on Contra Dance
What is Contra Dancing? from Chattahoochee Country Dancers - includes a great introduction and tutorial videos
NPR story - Youth Flock to Contra Dance
What is Contra Dance? from another site
Contraculture: An Introduction to Contradancing
Contradancing: A Living, Swinging Tradition - videos and a radio piece from KPCC (click on "Listen Now")
They come from all over for the old-time dancing - Houston Chronicle
Dancing may be best for the brain - Houston Chronicle
What is Contra Dance Music like? check out the Music from the Contra Dance podcast [iTunes link]
from the Chicago Tribune - Contra dancers may do-si-do, but don't call them squares
from the New York Times - "Walk, Stretch or Dance? Dancing May Be Best for the Brain"
contra dancing on YouTube - lots and lots of videos!
Guidelines for Butt-Pinching Gentlemen in Skirts
Guns at the Dance and Issues of Etiquette
Explaining Traditional Squares and Contras to MWSD folks
a Contradance page... - lots of links for beginners, experienced dancers, callers and musicians
come join the fun!
(please report broken links to the webmasters)