FSGW upcoming events

International Folk Dancing (23 Sep 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Note: If you are having symptoms, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, or may be positive, please attend the class via Zoom for the next week or 2. If you attend the class and then test positive, please let me know immediately, so I can inform those who attended the class (without identifying you).

For out-of-towners and those who cannot attend in person, we are offering this class via Zoom. You can enter by clicking onto the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87152651884?pwd=QWVyVEc1cm9uWTNqTkwrYTdPWlRrdz09

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

English Country Dance: April Blum calls with Elisabeth Epstein, Becky Ross, and Neil Epstein (23 Sep 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

April Blum leads the dancing to the music of Elisabeth Epstein (flute), Becky Ross (fiddle), and Neil Epstein (piano)

You may register in advance (preferred) or at the door. Attendance will be limited to 50 dancers and spectators so if you are planning on registering at the door, please check the event page beforehand to see how many spaces are left.

If you have not previously attended a Wednesday night English country dance at Glen Echo, you may select "first time free" when registering. New dancers are welcome. If you have no previous English country dance experience or would like a refresher, please arrive at around 7:30 for a lesson.

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

The dance is held in the upstairs room of the Glen Echo Town Hall.

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If you'd like to get weekly reminders and other email of interest to our local dancers, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

General information on our English Country Dance web page

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (25 Sep 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

John Robinson will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Request dancing 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Alejandro Brittes and Baroque Ensemble present (L)Este (26 Sep 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Saturday, September 26, 5pm - Orchestral concert “(L)Este” of Alejandro Brittes with his Baroque ensemble (composed of accordion, 7-stringed Brazilian guitar, two violins, cello, oboe, and percussion) on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 5pm at The Catholic University of America.

Pre-registration is required. Admission is limited to 120 attendees. RSVP to ahualli@cua.edu

This year the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul is commemorating the 400th anniversary Rio Grand do Sul is commemorating the 400th anniversary is Commemorating the 400th anniversary of the founding the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranís within its territory - which have been declared as UNESCO World Heritage. As part of this initiative, an official delegation of the Government of the state will be participating in a series of events in Washington, D.C. from September 26 - 30 in institutions such as The Catholic University of America, the Organization of American Sates, and the Library of Congress.

The primary public event, the orchestral concert of "(L)Este" by Alejandro Brittes with his Baroque ensemble (composed of accordion, 7-stringed Brazilian guitar, two violins, cello, oboe, and percussion), occurs on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 5pm at The Catholic University of America Ward Recital Hall (348 University Dr. NE, Washington, D.C. 20064).

Originating from the encounter of Baroque musical traditions and indigenous Guaraní influences within the context of the Missions, the musical genre of chamamé (declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO) is the language of this commemorative initiative. Chamamé is deeply related to the Guaraní presence in a large geographical region now shared by Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, and is the genre studied, interpreted and innovated upon by Alejandro Brittes for over three decades.

International Folk Dancing (30 Sep 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

English Country Dance: Andrea Nettleton calls with Tina Chancey, Susan Brandt, and Diane Sorenson (30 Sep 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Andrea Nettleton calls to the playing of Tina Chancey (fiddle), Susan Brandt (flute), and Diane Sorenson (piano)

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

The dance is held in the upstairs room of the Glen Echo Town Hall.

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If you'd like to get weekly reminders and other email of interest to our local dancers, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

General information on our English Country Dance web page

Dancing Planet House Concert with the Syncopaths (01 Oct 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Thursday, October 1st, 7:30 pm (doors open at 7) at the home of Jamie and Betsy Platt in Potomac, MD, 10 minutes from Glen Echo Park.

Suggested donation $20

Space is limited - to reserve seats, exact address and other info: hrhbetsy@gmail.com or 301-717-4641

Founded in 2002 as a backup band for bluegrass fiddler Richard Greene, The Syncopaths stepped out on their own shortly thereafter to rave reviews from audiences who delighted in the band's improvisational and playful style. From dance floors to concert halls, they bring a fresh, contemporary spin to tunes and songs rooted in Scottish, Irish, and American folk traditions. Evolving through contradance origins, they are creating a "chamber folk" sound, characterized by the compelling rhythmic interplay of fiddle and mandolin, rich vocals, along with rhythms of the piano and bodhrån.

Their recently released album "Be Like The Sea" covers a wide range of music from standards like The County Down by Tommy Sands to new music such as William Blake's Dead. The album can be purchased on Bandcamp, where you can sample the tunes.

At the heart of the band's sound are Ryan McKasson's dynamic Scottish-based fiddling, Jeffrey Spero's inventive and surprising piano accompaniment, and anchored by the driving power of Christa Burch's inventive bodhrån. Christa also lends her singular voice as lead singer – warm, supple, expressive, and intimate – to the band's songs. They will be joined by Eamon Sefton on banjo. Born and raised on traditional music from Ireland, Scotland, and Cape Breton, Eamon Sefton has established himself as one of the top fretted instrument players in the American Celtic music scene. In addition to being a master of several acoustic instruments, Eamon is a heartfelt singer/songwriter. He has performed both locally and internationally with some of the top traditional musicians inside and out of the US, including Liz Carroll, Alasdair Fraser, John Doyle, Hanneke Cassel and many others.

The Synchopaths are also playing for the Friday Night Dancers and Contrastock on Sunday

Presented by Dancing Planet Productions and co-sponsored by Folklore Society of Greater Washington

2026 FSGW Getaway (02 Oct 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 19:00:00 GMT

The Getaway starts Friday, October 2, with a potluck dinner, and runs so late on Sunday night that we serve breakfast on Monday morning, October 5.

The Getaway is an amazing weekend-long party of folks who love to sing, play and listen to folk music. We come together in a lovely riverside retreat to join together in making music, sharing what we bring and learning from friends old and new. There will be workshops, sing-arounds, sign-up concerts, music and conversations at all hours. Participation is encouraged at any level comfortable to you in a supportive and welcoming environment. Old and new songs and tunes, recitations and stories, as well as information on historical contexts and insights, along with conversation and laughter, have filled the Getaway for over half a century. Come be a part of the fun!

Our guests this year include Janie Meneely and Rob Van Sante, Bill Destler, Lynn Noel, George and Kathy Stephens, Kevin Elam, Colleen Cleveland, and Sarah Burkey.

Check out this year's schedule

The deadline for registration is September 26. You do not need to pay immediately, but we expect you to view registration as a commitment. If you have not paid in full by September 19, we will remind you.

Please fill out the entire registration form. We pay close attention to what you write; we use this information to plan workshops and assign rooms.

Here is a summary of the prices:

Overnight Registrations Day Registrations

	2 Nights	3 Nights
Adult Member
Upper Bunk	$265	$310
Lower Bunk	$275	$325
Adult Non-Member
Upper Bunk	$300	$345
Lower Bunk	$310	$360
Child age through 3	$0	$0
Child age 4 to 12	$115	$160
Child age 13 to 17	$150	$190
Student 18 and older	$190	$230

	1 Day	2 Days
Without Meals
Adult Member	$50	$100
Adult Non-Member	$60	$120
Child age through 3	$0	$0
Child age 4 to 12	$8	$15
Child age 13 to 17	$30	$60

Please note that if you are registering more than one person, you must complete the registration process (including payment) for each person before registering the next person.

See the Getaway page for more details.

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (02 Oct 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Larry Weiner will lead an Oldies but Goodies Night.

All-request evening featuring recorded music. international folk-dance favorites--many easy dances to just follow along.

No experience or partner necessary.

Request dancing 8:00 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

CONTRASTOCK 14, An all day dance event (03 Oct 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Contrastock: 8+ hours of contra dancing! A premier contra dance event, featuring nationally renowned bands and callers and an amazing historic dance hall.

When: October 3, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM. There is a break for dinner.

Where: Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, MD

Callers: Janine Smith, Michael Karcher, and Chloe Levine

More about Janine

More about Michael

More about Chloe

Bands:

Syncopaths (Ryan McKasson on fiddle, Eamon Sefton on mandolin, Jeffrey Spero on piano, and Christa Burch on bodhran and vocals)

More about the Syncopaths

Petrichord (Colleen Holroyd on fiddle and feet, Sophie Chang on cello, and Bobby LaRose on piano and mandolin)

More about Petrichord

Supertrad (Sam Bartlett on banjo and mandolin, Eric Schedler on accordion, Dave Langford on fiddle, and Owen Morrison on guitar)

More about Supertrad

Contrastock is called with non-gendered dance role terms

Schedule:

1-3 Chloe Levine and Petrichord

3:20-5:20 Michael Karcher and Super Trad

5:20-6:20 dinner break- potluck!

6:20-8:20 Janine Smith and Syncopaths

8:40-10 all bands and callers

Wellness policy: Contra dance is a close contact activity and germs love dancing too! Stay home if you are unwell the day of Contrastock. Full refunds will be provided.

The CDC currently recommends yearly COVID boosters for all individuals 6 months and older. Please consider adding a COVID booster to your vaccination list if you have not already, for our immunocompromised dancer friends, and for yourself.

More about the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

T-Shirt Options -

Heartwood Jam (06 Oct 2026)

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

There is a new contra music jam in town! The Heartwood Jam takes place on the first Tuesday of every month in Temple Hills from 6:30-9:30. In the future, the jam will hopefully happen on third Tuesdays as well and incorporate free workshops for attendees. As long as you’re capable of basically holding a melody or rhythm (or just want to listen), you’re welcome to join!

Zane Potorti, the host, organized jam sessions like this in North Carolina, where they founded and led the Original Neighbors Open Band. The venue is Heartwood Homestead, the community house where Zane lives.

For the address, suggested tune list, or ridesharing help, email Zane Potorti

FSGW Board Meeting by video conference (06 Oct 2026)

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, October 6th, the FSGW Board will meet from 8pm to 10pm in a video conference meeting. Please contact the FGSW President via this link or the FSGW WebMaster via this link to get the video conference information if you wish to attend.

Board meetings are open to members. If you have agenda items you wish to have considered, please contact the FSGW President at: president@fsgw.org

International Folk Dancing (07 Oct 2026)

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

English Country Dance: Dan Gillespie calls with David Knight, Colleen Reed, and Francine Krasowska (07 Oct 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Dan Gillespie calls while David Knight (fiddle), Colleen Reed (flute), and Francine Krasowska (piano) make the music

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

The dance is held in the upstairs room of the Glen Echo Town Hall.

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If you'd like to get weekly reminders and other email of interest to our local dancers, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

General information on our English Country Dance web page

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Anna Rain calling with Sugar Beat (08 Oct 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

This dance is in the *Spring Room* at the Silver Spring Civic Building.

Please note: There is no longer free parking at the Civic Center Parking Garage.

Callers: Anna Rain

Band: Sugar Beat (Susan Brandt, Elke Baker, and Marc Glickman)

Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

Lesson at 7:00 p.m., Dance is from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m.

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

Registration is required of all participants. Pre-registration is preferred - you may pay online or wait to pay at the door. You may register at the door. Cash and credit card are accepted at the door. Registrations may be cancelled 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.

October Song Circle (09 Oct 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 17:30:00 GMT

The monthly Song Circle provides a daytime opportunity to enjoy delightful songs, old or new, humorous or serious, timeless or topical. Free!

Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience. Come for informal group singing or just to listen, in person or via Zoom.

With Halloween creeping up on us, bring or request your favorite spooky songs, or any other songs!

If you wish to request particular songs, it helps to keep the singing going if you let us know well in advance using the registration form linked here.

Any participant may lead any song, a cappella or self-accompanied.

The Song Circle will be held in person at the Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center, 1000 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, MD 20901. Plenty of free parking!

In-person attendees must be age 55 or older and should read and follow FSGW's Respiratory Virus Guidelines.

If you can't come in person, please join us on Zoom with any Internet-connected device--computer, tablet, or smartphone--or you can join by dialing a phone number.

The Zoom link and phone number will be sent Friday morning to those who are on the Song Circle email list and to others who register at https://forms.gle/jr4sR9tmu6VRMBdN8 by Thursday, October 8.

If this will be your first use of Zoom, go to https://zoom.us, click on " Sign Up Free " and follow the prompts. Do this ahead of time so that you'll be all set to "join the meeting" when it's time to do so. Information about getting started with Zoom is at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/categories/200101697.

Before you join a Zoom session, go to zoom.us/download to download and install the latest version of the Zoom Workplace app (Version 7.1.8, released August 31; for MacOS and Linux, Version 7.0.6, released July 24). For a smartphone or tablet, update the Zoom app from your App Store or equivalent source.

Join us on October 9 in person or via Zoom. Especially if you're just getting started with Zoom, please try to join the Zoom session 5 or 10 minutes before 1:30 p.m. so that we can help with any technical issues before the singing begins.

For more information. see the Song Circles page.

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (09 Oct 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Linda Mansdorf will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Request dancing 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

FSGW Picnic 2026 (11 Oct 2026)

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 15:30:00 GMT

October 11th, 2026, in and around the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park.

FSGW is excited to host the annual picnic again this Fall, where the FSGW community can mix and mingle. There will be dancing, open singing and jamming, and a potluck lunch, all in the covered Bumper Car Pavilion. This event is FREE, so invite your friends and bring a dish to share! Please register so we can get a sense of how many people are planning to come.

Come meet members of the 2026-2027 Board and hear about volunteer opportunities. There will be a brief membership meeting reviewing the previous year of FSGW accomplishments and plans for the upcoming year.

Schedule:

11:30 - 12:30 Potluck

Those who are able are encouraged to bring a dish or snack to share. FSGW will provide lemonade, plates, cups, napkins and utensils.

12:30 - 12:55 Membership Meeting

Hear about what FSGW has accomplished this year and what we hope to achieve in the future

1:00 - 3:00 Barn Dance & Open Band

The Sunday Barn Dance will be called by Penelope Weinberger, with music led by Gina Faber & Liz Donaldson - additional musicians welcome to join the open band! This is a multi-generational dance, so all ages and ability levels are welcome to participate!

3:15 - 5:00 Open Jam lead by Gina Faber and Liz Donaldson

Bring an instrument and a tune to share, or just come enjoy being in community with each other. No experience necessary!

Please note that this event is rain or shine, as all activities will be under cover in the Bumper Car Pavilion.

October Barn Dance (11 Oct 2026)

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Barn Dance from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD.

Caller: Penelope Weinberger

Music: Gina Faber & Liz Donaldson

Come join us at the Barn Dance! This fun-spirited dance event is suitable for all ages and ability levels and features live music and calling. There will be circle dances, ceilidhs, and a variety of mixers. This dance fits the bill for families with preschool children just as well as older groups of tweens and teens. Our intergenerational community is what makes this dance unique and fun. So bring a friend or your kids and come join us!

Admission: Free! (no need to register, just show up at the door)

Covid Info: Masks and vaccination are encouraged but not required

General information on our Barn Dance web page

Gospel Sing (11 Oct 2026)

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 20:00:00 GMT

FSGW Gospel Sing in Takoma Park, MD

Sunday, October 11, 4 - 7 pm

The October 2026 Gospel Sing will take place at the home of Barbara and Arthur Karpas in Takoma Park. Group singing for two hours (outdoors in the beautiful garden, if the weather is nice) followed by a potluck dinner. Hymnals provided. A mask-friendly event — masks are optional but welcome. Everyone is welcome, but be sure you are symptom-free. RSVP/directions: call Barbara at 301-270-4239 (landline; no texts) or email Kathie Mack kpmack2@gmail.com

General information about Gospel Sings

International Folk Dancing (14 Oct 2026)

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

Grapevine Storytelling with Karen Wilson Ama'Echefu and Cory Howard (14 Oct 2026)

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Join us on Wednesday, October 14 at 7:30 Eastern at Busboys and Poets Takoma; or, for out-of-towners, via Zoom. Our featured tellers this month are the amazing Karen Wilson Ama'Echefu and the holistic Cory Howard!

No pre-registration needed for in-person, but if you register you will have access to the live stream and the recorded show for later.

You will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link as well as a reminder of the date, time, and location. We ask for donations to support our tellers, suggested $20 per person (feel free to give more!). Donations can be made in person or online before, during, or after the show, at: https://fsgw2.org/grapevine.html

The Grapevine is spoken word performance for adults and teens, celebrating the timeless art of the story, hosted by storytellers Renée Brachfeld and Tim Livengood.

ABOUT OUR TELLERS:

Karen Wilson Ama’Echefu is a woman who wears many hats. She is a singer and storyteller first, gifts that came naturally. Her father said when she was born, she wailed a deep and grounding “waah!”, two octaves below the other babies. She sings and tells so that we might laugh, cry, query, think and wonder together. She writes to discover organic thoughts, and she speaks to melt away the walls that divide. Learn more

Cory Howard wants to reimagine the Storyteller. Passionate about centering the audience in the narrative and nudging storytelling beyond its typical constructs, Cory hopes to subvert expectations so anticipation gives way to participation leading to brand new collective experiences. Cory has performed at the National Storytelling Festival, is a Moth Grand Slam winner and has an M.A. in Storytelling from East Tennessee State University where his original show The Campfireball was awarded ‘Outstanding Capstone Project’. Learn more

Learn more about The Grapevine (Storytelling) series

English Country Dance: Kappy Laning calls with Jeff Steinberg, Elisabeth Epstein, and Neil Epstein (14 Oct 2026)

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Kappy Laning calls to the playing of Jeff Steinberg (fiddle), Elisabeth Epstein (flute), and Neil Epstein (piano)

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

The dance is held in the upstairs room of the Glen Echo Town Hall.

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If you'd like to get weekly reminders and other email of interest to our local dancers, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

General information on our English Country Dance web page

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (16 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

John Robinson will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Request dancing 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

A Celebration of Balkan Music and Dance (17 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 16:00:00 GMT

FSGW is hosting a day of Balkan music and dance in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park on October 17 from 12-5pm.

Zlatne Uste Balkan Brass Band - From New York City, the foremost presenters of traditional Balkan brass music in the US, Zlatne Uste’s repertoire spans the most important stops in the traditional music of the Balkans. ZU has been a six-time invited guest at the Dragačevo Brass Festival in Guča, Serbia. Band members are: Belle Birchfield, Morgan Clark, Marian Eines, Sarah Ferholt, Catherine Foster, Emily Geller, Michael Ginsburg, Don Godwin, Emerson Hawley, Melinda Hunt, Jerry Kisslinger, Seido Salifoski, Matt Smith, and Daniel Stern.

Balkan Roots with Biljana Regan - more info to come.

FSGW & VITG Storyswap (Online) (17 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

VITG Monthly Story Swap

Saturday, October 17, 7:30p.m. Online

Storytellers and listeners are invited to an evening of shared stories. Anyone is welcome to tell a tale; no one ever has to. For adults or families.

Info: Jane Dorfman, 301-654-5818, dorfmanjo@gmail.com

Cost: FREE!

More info here

General information on Story Swaps

All Folks Waltz (19 Oct 2026)

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

FSGW is excited to announce a brand new monthly dance in Northern Virginia!

Would you like to dance in an inclusive, supportive atmosphere? Would you like to lead, follow, or both, no matter your gender? Would you like to have fun, be more active, and meet cool people? Then come join us for our inaugural All Folks Waltz: Gender-Inclusive Folk Waltz! We’ll begin with a folk waltz lesson at 7:00 (free with admission) where you can learn the basics of this dynamic, improvisational, folk dance form, followed by a freeform social dance with live music at 7:45. Come learn, move, and share the joy of dance with us!

Music by Donna Moore Boylan (keyboard and accordion) and Joe Klausner (fiddle, mandolin, and banjo)

Tickets are $15 for non-members, $12 for FSGW members, and $5 for limited income or students. Dancers 17 and under are free.

Questions? Email TwirlingTutor@gmail.com

Venue: The Lyon Village Community House is a lovely historic space with a new wooden dance floor!

Transport: The Lyon Village Community House is accessible from the Orange and Silver Lines (Clarendon Metro Station) and by numerous bus lines with a pleasant half-mile walk on tree-lined streets. Parking is available within the neighborhood.

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (21 Oct 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Takoma Park Old-Time Jam is again at Busboys and Poets in Takoma, DC, the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

The slow jam is 7:30-8pm or so and then we'll fast jam til 9:45pm. This jam is open to all skill levels and instruments. Please come with whatever you play!

Busboys and Poets have generously agreed to host our crazy crew so please come out and join the fray. Please make sure to support the venue by buying some food or drink!

More info about the Old-Time Jams

International Folk Dancing (21 Oct 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

English Country Dance: Wendy Clarke calls with Carrie Rose, Becky Ross, and Liz Donaldson (21 Oct 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Wendy Clarke leads the dancing to the music of Carrie Rose (flute), Becky Ross (fiddle), and Liz Donaldson (piano)

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

The dance is held in the upstairs room of the Glen Echo Town Hall.

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If you'd like to get weekly reminders and other email of interest to our local dancers, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

General information on our English Country Dance web page

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (23 Oct 2026)

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Ben Hole will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 - 8:30pm

Request dancing 8:30 - 9:30pm.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Beth Molaro and Laura & the Lava Lamps (25 Oct 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Sunday Afternoon Dancing Planet Contra Dance

Intro lesson at 2:30pm, dance from 3-6pm in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, MD.

An epic afternoon featuring contra dance's original groove band, Laura and the Lava Lamps and the extraordinary calling of Beth Molaro! Don't miss this rare opportunity to dance to the music of contra dance veterans Laura Lengnick (fiddle), Dave Wiesler (piano) and Ralph Gordon (bass), joined by special guest Tory Horner (fiddle), a rising star in the contra dance world. Together they will fire up the dance floor in the search for a primordial groove in perpetual motion. Invite a friend or two and come on out for this dance. You will be glad you did!

Admission: $15 general admission, $5 for ages 17 and under. Cash, check, or credit cards accepted at the door (credit card fees apply)

Covid info: masks and vaccinations are suggested but not required.

For more info: https://dancingplanetproductions.com/contra/

International Folk Dancing (28 Oct 2026)

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

English Country Dance: Anna Rain calls with Emily Aubrey, Paul Oorts, and Bobby LaRose (28 Oct 2026)

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Anna Rain leads the dancing while Emily Aubrey (fiddle), Paul Oorts (mandolin and accordion), and Bobby LaRose (piano) play the tunes

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

The dance is held in the upstairs room of the Glen Echo Town Hall.

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If you'd like to get weekly reminders and other email of interest to our local dancers, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

General information on our English Country Dance web page

The Strayaways in Concert (Kevin Burke, Dylan Foley, and Eamon O'Leary) (30 Oct 2026)

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Strayaways Concert at Christ Church in Accokeek. Co-sponsored by FSGW, presented by the Traditional Music Series at the Lyceum in Alexandria, VA.

Friday, October 30th, Doors open at 6:30, concert at 7pm

Ticket information:

For Advance ticketing, go to: https://ticketstripe.com/strayaways

The Strayaways are a powerful combination of virtuosity, enchantment, and soulful musicality. Kevin Burke, probably the greatest fiddler in Irish music, and fiddler Dylan Foley, known for his technical brilliance, dynamic style, and deep respect for the tradition, are joined by the inimitable Eamon O'Leary on guitar, bouzouki and vocals.
Magic happens!

About the Artists:

London born and Sligo bred, Kevin Burke is a legend in traditional Irish music. His bow has driven the Bothy Band, Patrick Street, Open House and Celtic Fiddle Festival. His technical virtuosity is matched with soulful musicality, a deep knowledge of the Irish traditional repertoire and a unique personal style. A generation of Irish fiddle players have been inspired and influenced by his silky-smooth tone, pulsing rhythmic bowing and crisply executed ornamentation.

Among them is Dylan Foley, raised in the Catskills, he is one of the most accomplished fiddlers in Irish traditional music today and a four-time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion. Hailed as “one of the finest fiddlers of his generation,” Foley is known for his technical brilliance, dynamic style, and deep respect for the tradition.

Joining them is master accompanist, songwriter, and singer, Dubliner Eamon O’Leary. His understated virtuosity on bouzouki and guitar, and “beautiful, crystalline songs” round out this exceptional trio. The Strayaways are truly a dream team of Irish music.The Strayaways

Questions: alex@morrisdance.org

~ Part of the Traditional-music-at-the-lyceum concert series ~

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (30 Oct 2026)

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Linda Mansdorf will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Request dancing 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

FSGW Board Meeting by video conference (03 Nov 2026)

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, November 3rd, the FSGW Board will meet from 8pm to 10pm in a video conference meeting. Please contact the FGSW President via this link or the FSGW WebMaster via this link to get the video conference information if you wish to attend.

Board meetings are open to members. If you have agenda items you wish to have considered, please contact the FSGW President at: president@fsgw.org

International Folk Dancing (04 Nov 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (06 Nov 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Hole will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 - 8:30pm

Request dancing 8:30 - 9:30pm.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

November Barn Dance (08 Nov 2026)

Sun, 08 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Barn Dance from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Back Room at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD.

Caller: TBD

Music: Sarah Foard, Sargon de Jesus, and Charlie Pilzer

Admission: Free! (no need to register, just show up at the door)

Covid Info: Masks and vaccination are encouraged but not required

General information on our Barn Dance web page

International Folk Dancing (11 Nov 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Penelope Weinberger calling with Jonathan Vocke & Sarah Collins (12 Nov 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This dance is in the Great Hall South at the Silver Spring Civic Building.

Please note: There is no longer free parking at the Civic Center Parking Garage.

Callers: Penelope Weinberger

Band: Jonathan Vocke & Sarah Collins

Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

Lesson at 7:00 p.m., Dance is from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

COVID info: Masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

Registration is required of all participants. Pre-registration is preferred--you may pay online or wait to pay at the door. You may register at the door. Cash and credit cards are accepted at the door. Registrations may be cancelled 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.

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (13 Nov 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Linda Mansdorf will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Request dancing 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (18 Nov 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Takoma Park Old-Time Jam is again at Busboys and Poets in Takoma, DC, the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

The slow jam is 7:30-8pm or so and then we'll fast jam til 9:45pm. This jam is open to all skill levels and instruments. Please come with whatever you play!

Busboys and Poets have generously agreed to host our crazy crew so please come out and join the fray. Please make sure to support the venue by buying some food or drink!

More info about the Old-Time Jams

International Folk Dancing (18 Nov 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (20 Nov 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Larry Weiner will lead an Oldies but Goodies Night.

All-request evening featuring recorded music. international folk-dance favorites--many easy dances to just follow along.

No experience or partner necessary.

Request dancing 8:00 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Challenging Squares (21 Nov 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Join us for Challenging Squares from 2:30-5:00pm on Saturday, November 21st at the Woman's Club of Arlington. After a break, join us for Challenging Contras from 7:00-9:30pm. Please note you will need to register SEPARATELY for each event.

Will Mentor calls with music by Leeway - Rhys Jones (fiddle) and Max Newman (guitar/keyboard/feet). What a lineup!

To have the most FUN..... please read below, does this describe your dancing?

You know how to do more than just the basic moves with confidence (Grand Square, Roll Away, Cross Trail Thru, California Twirl, Pass the Ocean)
You know where to be at the start of each dance phrase and how to recover from a lapse
You can dance and enjoy no walk through dances
You assist your partner and neighbor to the next move - and you have a friendly approach to it
You respond to confusion and missteps by others with grace, encouragement and good humor
It's not how long you've been dancing, it's how well you can adapt to challenging and unusual choreography!

Admission is $20 per dancer for advanced registration. Tickets purchased day-of will be $25. We will accept cash, check or Venmo at the door.

There's plenty of free parking. The club has a parking lot and the neighborhood is also easy to park in.

Questions? Email mwarshow@verizon.net

----------------

Challenging Squares 2:30-5:00pm (that's this event! Orange register button on this page)

Challenging Contras 7:00-9:30pm

Challenging Contras (21 Nov 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

An evening of Challenging Contras from 7:00-9:30pm on Saturday, November 21st at the Woman's Club of Arlington.

Come early for the Challenging Squares

Please note you will need to register SEPARATELY for each event.

Will Mentor calls with music by Leeway - Rhys Jones (fiddle) and Max Newman (guitar/keyboard/feet). What a lineup!

To have the most FUN.....please read below, does this describe your dancing?

You know how to do basic moves without teaching (Roll Away, California Twirl, Pass Through to a Wave, Contra Corners)

You know where to be at the start of each dance phrase and how to recover from a lapse

You can dance and enjoy no walk through dances

You assist your partner and neighbor to the next move - and you have a friendly approach to it

You execute flourishes safely and on time without disturbing others

You respond to confusion and missteps by others with grace, encouragement and good humor

It's not how long you've been dancing, it's how well you can adapt to challenging and unusual choreography!

Admission is $20 per dancer for advanced registration. Tickets purchased day-of will be $25. We will accept cash, check or Venmo at the door.

There's plenty of free parking. The club has a parking lot and the neighborhood is also easy to park in.

Questions? Email mwarshow@verizon.net

----------------

Challenging Squares 2:30-5:00pm

Challenging Contras 7:00-9:30pm (that's this event! Orange register button on this page)

Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Will Mentor and Leeway (22 Nov 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Sunday Afternoon Dancing Planet Contra Dance

Intro lesson at 2:30pm, dance from 3-6pm in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, MD.

Caller: Will Mentor

Band: Leeway (Rhys Jones and Max Newman)

Admission: $15 general admission, $5 for ages 17 and under. Cash, check, or credit cards accepted at the door (credit card fees apply)

Covid info: masks and vaccinations are suggested but not required.

For more info: https://dancingplanetproductions.com/contra/

International Folk Dancing (25 Nov 2026)

Thu, 26 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

7:30 p.m.: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 p.m.: open request dancing

Admission: $10

We strongly urge everyone to be vaccinated and fully boostered, but do not require it. If you have not done so already, please send your email address to dancingplanet@erols.com.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

See the website for more information: dancingplanetproductions.com/folkdance

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (27 Nov 2026)

Sat, 28 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Hosted by Linda Mansdorf, John Robinson, Ben Hole & other guest instructors. This is a FREE event.

To Register for the Zoom link contact John Robinson at j_srobinson@verizon.net

No experience or partner necessary.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (04 Dec 2026)

Sat, 05 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Larry Weiner will lead an Oldies but Goodies Night.

All-request evening featuring recorded music. international folk-dance favorites--many easy dances to just follow along.

No experience or partner necessary.

Request dancing 8:00 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Melissa Chatham calling with Frog Hammer (10 Dec 2026)

Fri, 11 Dec 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This dance is in the Great Hall South at the Silver Spring Civic Building.

Please note: There is no longer free parking at the Civic Center Parking Garage.

Callers: Melissa Chatham

Band: Frog Hammer (Jim Besser on concertina, Bob Collins on drums, Andrew Marcus on accordion, Glyn Collinson on guitar, Dave Casserly on sax, Michael Ferguson on trombone and harp)

More about Frog Hammer

Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

Lesson at 7:00 p.m., Dance is from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

COVID info: Masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (11 Dec 2026)

Sat, 12 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Linda Mansdorf will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Request dancing 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (16 Dec 2026)

Thu, 17 Dec 2026 00:30:00 GMT

The Takoma Park Old-Time Jam is again at Busboys and Poets in Takoma, DC, the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

The slow jam is 7:30-8pm or so and then we'll fast jam til 9:45pm. This jam is open to all skill levels and instruments. Please come with whatever you play!

Busboys and Poets have generously agreed to host our crazy crew so please come out and join the fray. Please make sure to support the venue by buying some food or drink!

More info about the Old-Time Jams

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (18 Dec 2026)

Sat, 19 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Hole will lead, teach and organize the request dancing.

No experience or partner necessary.

Lessons 8:00 - 8:30pm

Request dancing 8:30 - 9:30pm.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - NO DANCE (Holiday Vacation) (25 Dec 2026)

Sat, 26 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - NO DANCE (Holiday Vacation) (01 Jan 2027)

Sat, 02 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (08 Jan 2027)

Sat, 09 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Larry Weiner will lead an Oldies but Goodies Night.

All-request evening featuring recorded music. international folk-dance favorites--many easy dances to just follow along.

No experience or partner necessary.

Request dancing 8:00 to 9:30 p.m.

More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

Hashdance Weekend 2027 (27 Mar 2027)

Sat, 27 Mar 2027 04:00:00 GMT

Hashdance will feature two days of high energy, amazing, challenging sessions, with non-gendered calling, hashing, flow and glide, and delightful figures, as well as workshops, food, fun, singing, and camaraderie in the fabulous Spanish Ballroom and throughout Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD.

Callers: Lisa Greenleaf and Will Mentor

Bands: Red Case Band (Stuart Kenney, Max Newman, Clara Stickney, Alex Cumming, and Matt Kenney), Lighthouse (Audrey Jaber, Max Newman, and Stuart Kenney), and Alex & Audrey (Audrey Jaber and Alex Cumming).

Volunteering: Full-weekend volunteers will be assigned 3 hours of work. Partial-weekend volunteers will be assigned 1 hour of work

More about Hashdance Weekend

Shirt options (available in tank or t-shirt, black or purple) -

Save the Date: 41st Annual Washington Spring Ball (English Country Dance) (15 May 2027)

Sat, 15 May 2027 23:30:00 GMT

Come join us for a fabulous time! Doors open at 7:00 pm, dancing starts at 7:30.

The Washington Spring Ball is a joyful yearly event of English Country Dancing to glorious music. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

The band for the ball this year will be Terpsichore (Elke Baker, Liz Donaldson, and Ralph Gordon)

Our local callers share the calling for the evening ball.

We have a practice session the day of the ball, where most of the dances will be taught. Attending the practice session is strongly encouraged but not required. In the evening at the ball, all dances will be briefed (talked-through) and then prompted for the first few rounds.

Attire: Whatever you like. Some dancers choose attire from the 18th or 19th century, some come in their favorite tie-dye. Wear what makes you feel happy and festive.

Afternoon practice session from 2:00 - 5:00 pm on the day of the ball, at the Civic Building , which is included in the admission fee.

Please visit the Annual Washington Spring Ball page for additional details.