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 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!
Our regular dance schedule is:
- Contra dances every 1st and 3rd Saturday
- English country dancing on the Friday between
- Several special events throughout the year
Occasionally we cancel a dance to support another special dance opportunity in our region. Check this website or subscribe to our email list 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 group. 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 afford to hire live performers, put on special events, etc.
- Join CDSS – And support the larger ecosystem of participatory across the US and Canada.