We are the go-to organization for contra dancing and English country dancing in and around Syracuse, NY. These are multi-generational, participatory dances that are part of a very cool and ever-evolving living tradition. What makes our dance events so enjoyable is participation from YOU as a dancer.
All our dances have live music and a caller who teaches you everything you need to know to participate. Dancers of all experience levels come to our dances, and there’s no need to bring a partner to attend. If you come 20-30 minutes early and let our greeter know, someone will be happy to run you through a few basics before the dance begins.
If you have never done this sort of dancing before, expect to smile. A lot! All evening!
We are planning two special fall events:
The Phylla MaeFall Fest, Oct 17-18: a special weekend of contra dance
Please Note: Although pre-registration for the Phylla Mae Fall Fest is closed, there is still room for you to come and pay at the door. Hope to see you there!
Double English, Nov 8: advanced dancing in the afternoon and an evening dance for all
Our dance schedule can be found on this website by clicking this link, or you can download a paper schedule suitable for posting on your fridge or on a phone pole near you. Typically we offer:
- Contra dances on 1st & 3rd Saturdays
- English country dancing on 2nd & 4th Saturdays
- Special events throughout the year
Sometimes we cancel a dance to support another special dance opportunity in our region. Please check this website or subscribe to our email list (see form on the right-hand side of this page) to stay up to date on schedule specifics.
CDSS
Syracuse Country Dancers is proud to be an affiliate of The Country Dance and Song Society, which is an umbrella organization that supports participatory dance, music, and song traditions like ours with grants, technical support, programming and more. CDSS has been around since 1915, and it is fair to say that we would not be dancing as we do if it were not for CDSS. Check out their amazing website, and avail yourself of their resources and programs.
How can I support this kind of dancing?
- Come and dance!
- Volunteer – We are an all-volunteer organization. You can help clean up after a dance, bring a snack to share, help decorate for a special event, or offer a bed to visiting dancers or performers. Want to volunteer? Just ask at any dance.
- Donate – Donations help us to better afford to hire live performers, put on special events, etc.
- Join CDSS – And support the larger ecosystem of participatory across the US and Canada.