FSGW upcoming events

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, 7:30pm

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.

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: Andrea Nettleton calls with Jeff Steinberg, Anna Rain, and Janina O'Brien (04 Nov 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Andrea Nettleton calls while Jeff Steinberg (fiddle), Anna Rain (recorders), and Janina O’Brien (piano) make the music

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 (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)

Heartwood Jam (07 Nov 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

There is a new contra music jam in town! As long as you’re capable of basically holding a melody or rhythm (or just want to listen), you’re welcome to join! This month the jam will be held at a different home in Takoma Park - email Zane Potorti for address.

Zane Potorti, the host, organized jam sessions like this in North Carolina, where they founded and led the Original Neighbors Open Band.

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

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: Kappy Laning

Music: New Southern Cowtippers (Sandy Hofferth on fiddle and Heidi Most on guitar)

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

The 9 Lives of Barbara Dane Film, with Live Music by Crys Matthews (08 Nov 2026)

Sun, 08 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

The WOMEN'S REBEL VOICES FILM & MUSIC TOUR PRESENTS: The DC premiere of the award-winning film, followed by live music with Crys Matthews

Protesta Productions presents a WOMEN’S REBEL VOICES FILM + MUSIC EVENT, featuring the award-winning documentary THE 9 LIVES OF BARBARA DANE, with live filmmaker Q&A, and a special musical performance by the inimitable Crys Matthews.

Get tickets now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-9-lives-of-barbara-dane-film-crys-matthews-music-live-tickets-2003435520573

2pm Reception with the filmmakers

3pm Film Screening, followed by Q&A

5pm Live music by Crys Matthews

Who is Barbara Dane? Louis Armstrong discovered her, Pete Seeger mentored her, Bob Dylan called her a hero, and Bonnie Raitt was inspired by her. She launched the career of the Chambers Brothers, jammed with Muddy Waters and Memphis Slim, shaped Jane Fonda's politics, and became the first American performer to break the embargo with Cuba – so why isn't she a household name?

She chose conscience over fame, transforming setbacks into opportunities and blazing her own path through her art. With singular confidence, Dane emanated the people-powered connectivity of folk, the defiance of blues, and the elemental cool of jazz – using music as a force for change and earning a four-inch FBI file along the way. If you have not yet heard of her, you will want to know why.

Gospel Sing (08 Nov 2026)

Sun, 08 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

FSGW Gospel Sing in Takoma Park, MD

Sunday, November 8, 4 - 7 pm

The November 2026 Gospel Sing will take place on Sunday, November 8th, at the home of Rick Morgan and Arlene Rodenbeck in Takoma Park. Group singing for two hours, from 4 - 6 pm, 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 Rick at 301-920-0087 (landline; no texts) or email Rick at MorganRick50@gmail.com or Kathie Mack at kpmack2@gmail.com.

General information about Gospel Sings

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

Grapevine Storytelling with Nancy Tolson and Jude Treder-Wolff (11 Nov 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Join us on Wednesday, November 11 at 7:30 Eastern at Busboys and Poets Takoma; or, for out-of-towners, via Zoom. Our featured tellers this month are the terrific Nancy Tolson and the equally terrific Jude Treder-Wolff!

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:

Nancy Tolson has been telling tales for many years. She studies Black folktales and collects spicy tales (and tells those to adult audiences in jazz joints). She is a regular at the Augusta Baker’s Dozen Storytelling Festival, and the Stone Soup Storytelling Festival, and performs at various festivals across the country. When not telling tales, Nancy is the director of undergraduate studies in the African American Studies Department at the University of South Carolina. More at https://schumanities.org/speaker/nancy-d-tolson/

The heart of Jude Treder-Wolff’s storytelling as a performer and as a teacher is empowerment, healing, and galvanizing one’s strength through the art of story. She hosts the podcast Improv In Real Life, and the (mostly) True Things Storytelling Show performed monthly on Long Island, NY. She has been a featured storyteller in Generation Women, RISK! The Story Collider, Story District in Washington D.C., Gather NYC, PBS Stories From The Stage, Grapevine Storytelling, Better Said Than Done, and many others. Learn more at https://www.judetrederwolff.com/ as well as https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/improv-in-real-life/id1825653423 and https://www.mostlytruethings.com/

Learn more about The Grapevine (Storytelling) series

English Country Dance: Kappy Laning calls with Niki Yeracaris, Carrie Rose, and Liz Donaldson (11 Nov 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Kappy Laning calls to the playing of Niki Yeracaris (fiddle), Carrie Rose (flute), 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

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.

November Song Circle (13 Nov 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 18:30:00 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.

November 3 is Election Day, November 11 is Veterans Day and November 28 is Thanksgiving Day. Bring or request songs related to any of those days, 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 form linked here.

Peter and Steve Jones will lead and accompany the singing, and 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 sign up at https://forms.gle/jr4sR9tmu6VRMBdN8 by Thursday, November 12.

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 7.1.9, released September 24; for Android, Version 7.2.1, released September 21; for macOS, Version 7.2.2, released September 24). For a smartphone or tablet, update the Zoom app from your App Store or equivalent source.

Join us on November 13 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 (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)

Windborne Concert SOLD OUT (Waitlist available) (14 Nov 2026)

Sun, 15 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Windborne Concert in Takoma Park, MD on Saturday, November 14th, 7:30pm

This concert is currently SOLD OUT. You can sign up for the waitlist at tix.windbornesingers.com/events/windborne/2448413

There will also be a singing workshop with Windborne on November 15th at Glen Echo Town Hall, tickets for the workshop can be found at tix.windbornesingers.com/events/windborne/2429789

Windborne’s captivating show draws on the singers’ deep roots in traditions of vocal harmony, while the absolute uniqueness of their artistic approach brings old songs into the present. Known for the innovation of their arrangements, their harmonies are bold and anything but predictable. Instead of simply dazzling the audience with vocal fireworks; Windborne evokes a deep emotional response connecting their audience to the past, distant places and themselves, it's no wonder they have been crowd favorites since starting to tour in 2018. Windborne is particularly known for their viral videos which have gained the group nearly 500,000 followers, singing at Mont Saint Michel in France, and Cathedrals around the world!

With a 20-year background studying polyphonic music around the world, Lauren Breunig, Jeremy Carter-Gordon, Lynn Rowan, and Will Rowan share a vibrant energy onstage with a blending of voices that can only come from decades of friendship alongside dedicated practice. The ensemble shifts effortlessly between drastically different styles of music, drawing their audience along on a journey that spans continents and centuries, illuminating and expanding on the profound power and variation of the human voice. The singers educate as they entertain, sharing stories about their songs and explaining the context and characteristics of the styles in which they sing. BBC Traveling Folk describes Windborne as “subverting expectations and redefining the genre [of vocal music]... just absolutely phenomenal!”

Windborne Singing Workshop (15 Nov 2026)

Sun, 15 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Join Windborne for a fabulous day of singing! Sunday, November 15th at Glen Echo Town Hall

Tickets for the workshop can be found at tix.windbornesingers.com/events/windborne/2429789

Windborne will also be performing a concert on November 14th, tickets at tix.windbornesingers.com/events/windborne/2448413

2:00 PM: Doors and check-in

2:15–5:45 PM: Singing with Windborne

THE SINGING:

Windborne will be teaching a variety of material including Windborne's signature 4-part arrangements, with songs of social struggle, labor songs, Corsican, Occitan, Lithuanian, Basque, and more. For participants who have attended a Windborne workshop before, they’ll be teaching a different set of songs!

Participants of all abilities will learn singing styles from a variety of countries and cultures as well as songs of social struggle from movements past and present. All songs will be taught by ear — no sight reading required, just enthusiasm and willingness to try new things!

Workshops are a great opportunity to connect with friends and make some new ones, learn music and improve your singing, and gather inspiration and energy. We will tell stories about the music and explore the characteristics and stylistic elements of the different traditions. We invite participants to learn some of Windborne's signature arrangements, improve vocal technique and health, and spend an afternoon singing together in harmony.

FSGW & VITG Storyswap (In Person) (15 Nov 2026)

Sun, 15 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

VITG Monthly Story Swap

Sunday, November 15, 2:30 p.m. Bethesda, MD

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

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

English Country Dance: Tom Spilsbury calls with Becky Ross, Elisabeth Epstein, and Diane Sorenson (18 Nov 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Tom Spilsbury leads the dancing while Becky Ross (fiddle), Elisabeth Epstein (flute), and Diane Sorenson (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

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 - sorry, no credit cards.

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

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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. Sorry, no credit cards.

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

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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.

Yo Ho Dancers! Will Mentor and Leeway (Rhys Jones & Max Newman) finish up their mid-Atlantic dance cruise in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park. Rhys (fiddle) and Max (guitar/keyboard/feet) are seasoned dance musicians, adept at whipping up a driving musical storm. Caller Will Mentor pulls out all the stops, truth be told, he saves all the great dances for the last port of call!

And no need to worry about the weather. The Bumper Car Pavilion has industrial overhead radiant heaters, so we'll be toasty warm with heaters on and curtains down.

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/

All Folks Waltz (23 Nov 2026)

Tue, 24 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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 Terpsichore (Liz Donaldson and Elke Baker)

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

Katherine Anderson is an avid social dancer and dance teacher in the DMV. She teaches multiple dance styles, including Lindy Hop, contra, Balboa, fusion, and folk waltz, which she has been teaching since 2022. She loves a fun tune, an opportunity to improvise, and helping to bring skills, safety, and fun to her dance communities. You can reach her at TwirlingTutor@gmail.com.

The 7:00 pm intro lesson by Katherine Anderson (free with admission) will start with folk waltz basic steps and partnering appropriate for beginners, allowing them to get out on the dance floor when the band starts to play. It will end with repertoire-building skills aimed at expanding the waltz vocabulary of more experienced dancers and interested beginners alike.

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.

More about the All Folks Waltz series

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

English Country Dance: Dan Gillespie calls with Tina Chancey, Catherine Chapman, and Francine Krasowska (25 Nov 2026)

Thu, 26 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Dan Gillespie calls to the playing of Tina Chancey (fiddle), Catherine Chapman (fiddle), and Francine Krasowska (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

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)

Mini-Fest (06 Mar 2027)

Sat, 06 Mar 2027 16:00:00 GMT

The Mini-Fest (formerly the Midwinter Festival) returns to Browne Academy! Join us Saturday, March 6th, in Alexandria, Virginia, for this FREE Folk Festival featuring musical performances, dance demonstrations, singing and instrument workshops, family programing, and more!

We are in need of volunteers! If you are interested, please reach out to president@fsgw.org

More about the Mini-Fest

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.

Save the date: CONTRASTOCK 15, An all day dance event (12 Sep 2027)

Sun, 12 Sep 2027 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: September 12, 2027 from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM. There is a break for dinner.

Where: Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, MD

Bands: Handspring, Spintuition, and TBA

Callers: Will Mentor, Gaye Fifer, and Caroline Barnes

Contrastock is called with non-gendered dance role terms

Covid protocol: Masks and vaccinations are encouraged but not required

More about the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy