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Square Dance

Four couples in a square, a caller directs the moves — modern western style is taught in classes. Originated in USA/UK · 17th-19th c.. Typically danced around 120-140 BPM (medium-fast).

About Square Dance

Origin
USA/UK
Era
17th-19th c.
Tempo
120-140 BPM (Medium-fast)
Format
Partner
Beginner accessibility
Approachable

Four couples in a square, a caller directs the moves — modern western style is taught in classes.

What to expect: Modern Western Square Dance has a curriculum (Basic, Mainstream, Plus...). Traditional/community square dance is walk-in friendly.

Lineage

Roots

Square Dance grew out of:

Where to find Square Dance events

8 upcoming square dance events across 1 city.

Going for the first time

Contra dance is one of the most beginner-friendly partner-dance formats in North America. The caller teaches each dance before the band plays it, partners rotate through the set, and live old-time or Celtic music drives the room.

Show up on time for the beginner walkthrough. Ask anyone to dance. Refill water at the break.

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