English Country Dance
Stately group partner dance from Jane Austen's era — graceful walking patterns to live music. Originated in England · 16th–17th c.. Typically danced around 100-130 BPM (medium).
About English Country Dance
- Folk & Traditional
- England
- 16th–17th c.
- 100-130 BPM (Medium)
- Partner
- Approachable
First documented by John Playford, 1651. Couples in sets or longways formations; figures include do-si-do, promenade, cast down.
What to expect: Long-ways sets, a caller, baroque or English folk music. Less athletic than Contra; more elegant.
Lineage
Where to find English Country Dance events
We don't have verified english country dance events on the calendar right now. Check the full event feed for related styles, or submit one if you organize.
Going for the first time
Folk and traditional dance nights vary widely — Scandinavian, English country, square dance, contra. Most are caller-led so you're walked through every figure in real time. No partner needed; the format rotates everyone through the set.
Listen for the caller. Thank your partner and the band. If live music is playing, applaud between tunes.