About the Friday Night Contra Dance at Glen Echo

Contra Dancing is a type of folk dance where square dancing meets line dancing. It is a social dance and community for all ages. Contra dances use dance moves similar to square dancing with a “caller.” It’s pure fun, and easy to learn.

Friday Night Dancers dance all evening to fantastic bands in an alcohol-free environment.  Music may be traditional or modern inspired by folk tunes. For examples of what Contra dance music sounds or looks like, visit the GreatContraVideos on YouTube.

• When Every Friday night

• Lesson Time 7:30 pm

• Dance Time 8:00-11:00 pm

• Where Either the historic Spanish Ballroom or Bumper Car Pavilion
  at Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Boulevard, Glen Echo, Maryland 20812 (parking lot is at 5801 Oxford Road, Glen Echo, MD 20812)

• Admission $15.00

• Pre-registration is preferred - you may pay online or wait to pay at the door. Cash and credit cards are accepted at the door. Registrations may be canceled prior to the event, and any payment will be refunded as a credit for future use. No refunds will be available after the event has started.

• COVID-19 vaccinations are strongly recommended and masks are welcomed.

• What to wear Many dancers like to wear skirts, and always wear comfortable shoes. Our venue is neither heated in the winter nor air-conditioned in the summer, so be prepared! Fans relieve the heat in summer. The Bumper Car Pavilion has some overhead heaters. Dress casually and in layers.

• If you are a new or experienced dancer, please read the Etiquette & Dancer Safety Guides!

• You don’t need to bring a partner! Contra dancing is a social dance and it’s customary to change partners with each dance.

• Our ballroom has a treasured sprung wood floor that is important to preserve.  Comfortable, soft-soled, low-heeled, preferably dance shoes are recommended. They will present less friction when spinning. Perfumes or scented powders may trigger allergies in other dancers. PLEASE don’t wear scented products. We also recommend that you bring a bottle of water with you, but there are drinking fountains.

No Dancer Left Behind If you need a ride from the dance at Glen Echo, leave a ride request on the Ride Board at the dance before the break.  An announcement will be made on your behalf.

In case of severe weather If Glen Echo Park is closed then the dance is cancelled. Call the Park hotline at 301-320-2330 after 3 pm or visit their website for more information.

Join our email list below For weekly dance updates.

Like our Facebook page to get invited to dances and special events and stay informed!

Join our Facebook group community – share photos, announce dance events, carpool with other dancers!

If you would like to play in the famous Glen Echo Open Band click here!