Upcoming Programs & Events

Filtering by: “Cultural Dances”
English Country Dancing (3rd Thursdays of Month)
Oct
29
Cultural Dances, Music, Arts & Culture, Programs, Seniors

English Country Dancing (3rd Thursdays of Month)

Register

Start date: Thursday, September 17 2026.

Schedule:

 Third Thursday of every month, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM,

 From September 17, 2026 until September 17, 2026,

 The Great Hall,

 Thursday, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM,

 October 29, 2026,

Resource person: Jenny Beer

Location: The Great Hall | 129 Park Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, 19081

Description:

Get ready to dance your way into a winter of fun! If you're looking for a way to lift your spirits and connect with others, join us for our English Country Dance (ECD) on the first and third Thursday of the month. ECD is a delightful form of dancing that's similar to square dancing, but with lively reels, stately 18th century tunes, and dreamy waltzes. You don't need any previous dance experience to participate, just the ability to walk steadily and turn in circles without getting dizzy. 

ECD is an ideal low-impact exercise that engages your body, mind, and spirit. Plus, it's a great way to socialize and make new friends. Even if you're not up for dancing, we still have our regular program running in the Centennial room. 

Our very own Jenny Beer, who hosts the PAC contra dance, will lead us through each dance step-by-step. With decades of experience leading English Country Dance sessions for seniors, she'll make sure everyone gets to enjoy the fun. You'll also have the opportunity to meet local ECD dancers who will be joining in on the fun. 

Please visit https://parkavenuecontra.org/GentleEnglish for more information.

PAY AT THE DOOR, no preregistration required

Please note that there is no class on the following date(s):

  • Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM

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Contra Dance (4th Tuesdays of Month)
Oct
27
Cultural Dances, Music, Arts & Culture, Programs, Seniors

Contra Dance (4th Tuesdays of Month)

Pay at the door. No registration is required

Start date: Tuesday, September 22 2026.

Schedule:

 Fourth Tuesday of every month, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM,

 From September 22, 2026 until October 27, 2026,

 The Great Hall,

Resource person: Jenny Beer

Location: The Great Hall | 129 Park Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, 19081

Description:

https://parkavenuecontra.org/

This fun social dance is easy to learn with live music and professional callers teaching the moves. There's lots of swinging and lots of brisk walking and lots of smiles.

Featuring live musicians and skilled callers who will teach each dance beforehand then prompt it while you're dancing.

What is contra dancing?

It's social dancing with everyone dancing the same pattern again and again up and down a long line. You'll choose a different partner for each dance, and eventually you'll have interacted with nearly everyone in the hall. There's lots of swinging and lots of brisk walking and lots of smiles.

What you need to know

  • Newcomers are welcome, and no partner is needed (but do bring your friends!).

  • Wear cool loose clothing. The hall is air-conditioned.

  • Please bring your own water bottle, also wear flat shoes, with clean, non-slippery, non-grippy soles.

  • Parking is on the street. The venue is a short walk from the Swarthmore train station.

  • Experienced dancers & first timers all are welcome!

PAY AT THE DOOR, no preregistration required

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