Contra dancing is a joyful, energetic community dance for all ages. We dance to live music – fiddles, guitar, accordions, and more – and talented callers guide us through dance formations. Check out our Schedule page or subscribe to our email newsletter for upcoming dances.
Beginners are very welcome – all dances are taught and no partner or previous experience needed – just bring your smile!
“It was [a] very friendly atmosphere. The instructions were good. The music was fantastic!” “Very welcoming.”
Contra dances take place twice a month on 1st and 3rd Saturday evenings, September through June each season (no dances in July and August).
Doors open at 7 PM
Introductory lesson 7:30-8 PM (highly recommended for new participants)
Dance 8-11 PM
Location: Churchill Recreation Centre, 345 Richmond Road, Ottawa (see our Location page)
Our next two dances…
- November 15th, 2025
- Band: Quatre Patates
Caller: Nicholas Smith - December 6th, 2025 – Also has a waltz hour!
- 6:30-7:30 PM – Waltzing, in the main hall, before the Contra dance. 🙂
Band: Magia Vestis Café Orchestra
Caller: Bev Bernbaum - More upcoming dances…
- See Schedule for more upcoming dances, prices, and more info.
Masks are optional. Please stay home if you’re sick. Dancers are most welcome to wear a mask if they wish to. See our full list of health measures here.
Hey Fever!
We host our own Dance Weekend, Hey Fever!, Oct 31st to Nov 2nd, 2025. It’s a blast!
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