Fundamentally, it’s because Contra dancing is fun! But why is it fun?

With a history of over 400 years, Contra dance has stood the test of time. You’re dancing with everyone in the room, all the time. You have a partner for each dance, with whom your acquaintance is lasting, and you have neighbors, with whom your acquaintance lasts only for that chorus, before you meet new neighbors.

Every dance is taught, and danced to live music every week.

Like every form of social dance, Contra dancers are friendly and accepting.

Contra is accessible – the fundamental elements are easy to grasp, and the footwork is not fancy. “If you can walk, you can dance.” Contra is not boring – there are thousands of arrangements of the elements, and there is room for flourishes.

Most importantly, Contra dancers interact with everyone directly, respectfully and humanly. You can’t leave a contra dance without having your spirits lifted.