FSGW upcoming events

International Folk Dancing (26 Aug 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 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).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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 and Wendy Clarke call with Tina Chancey, Mari Carlson, and Neil Epstein (26 Aug 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Andrea Nettleton and Wendy Clarke lead the dancing to the music of Tina Chancey (fiddle), Mari Carlson (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

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (28 Aug 2026)

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Hosted by Linda Mansdorf, John Robinson, Ben Hole, Carolyn Rapkievian & 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)

FSGW Board Meeting by video conference (01 Sep 2026)

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, September 1st, 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 (02 Sep 2026)

Wed, 02 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: Dan Gillespie calls with Paul Oorts, Niki Yeracari, and Bobby LaRose (02 Sep 2026)

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Dan Gillespie calls while Paul Oorts (mandolin and accordion), Niki Yeracaris (fiddle), and Bobby LaRose (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

September 2026 Online Open Sing (04 Sep 2026)

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Many thanks to Gary Ehrlich for hosting the Online Open Sing on Friday, September 4th at 7:30PM

The topic/theme will be "Colors"

***Only those wishing to sing need to register.***

Singers List is unavailable to the public due to Google Technical issues. Go ahead and sign up, we can fix dupe sign ups later

Reminder:
Registration will be open til Noon ET on 9/4/26.
Zoom Link will be sent to the Open Sing mailing list, if you're not a member of the mailing list, sign up HERE

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (04 Sep 2026)

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 23:30:00 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)

Grapevine Storytelling with Margaret Chatham and Miriam Nadel (09 Sep 2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Join us on Wednesday, September 9 at 7:30 Eastern at Busboys and Poets Takoma; or, for out-of-towners, via Zoom. Our featured tellers this month are the marvelous Margaret Chatham and the munificent Miriam Nadel!

No pre-registration needed for in-person, but if you register at https://fsgw.org/grapevine 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:

Miriam H. Nadel has told folktales, personal stories, and original stories for 35 years. Some of her favorite venues have included the Washington Folk Festival, Better Said Than Done, a Hollywood art gallery, and a campground in the Empty Quarter of Oman. She collects hats, paper dolls, and stories about her more colorful relatives. All of her stories are true, whether or not they happened that way. More about Miriam

Margaret Chatham is a former children’s librarian, trained in New York Public Library style storytelling. Margaret emphasizes traditional folk tales and faithfully presented literary tales. This builds on her family's tradition of reading aloud, treasuring and quoting favorite authors’ words. Her other big storytelling influence was hearing The Folktellers (Barbara Freeman and Connie Regan) in November, 1975. Darn! had to wait nearly a year to experience the National Storytelling Festival. More about Margaret

Learn more about The Grapevine (Storytelling) series

International Folk Dancing (09 Sep 2026)

Wed, 09 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: Anna Rain and Wendy Clark call with Jeff Steinberg, Robin Wilson, and Liz Donaldson (09 Sep 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Anna Rain and Wendy Clarke call to the playing of Jeff Steinberg (fiddle), Robin Wilson (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: Andrea Nettleton calling Paul Oorts & Tina Chancey (10 Sep 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Please note: this dance is at the Seekers Church in Takoma, DC, across from the Takoma Metro Station, rather than at the usual location in Silver Spring.

Caller: Andrea Nettleton

Band: Paul Oorts & Tina Chancey

Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

Lesson at 7:00 p.m., Dance is from 7:30 to 9:30 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.

September Song Circle (11 Sep 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 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.

In observance of Labor Day, bring or request your favorite labor 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.

Steve Jones (Music Director of the DC Labor Chorus) will lead and accompany the singing.

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, September 10.

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 7.1.5, released July 20; for Android, Version 7.1.6, released July 22). For a smartphone or tablet, update the Zoom app from your App Store or equivalent source.

Join us on September 11 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 (11 Sep 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 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)

An Afternoon of English Country Dancing (12 Sep 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Join us for an afternoon of English Country Dancing at Ballroom Blum on Saturday, September 12th, 2:30-5:30pm.

The Second Floor is a captivating new dance band from Somerville, MA, who happen to be 3 roommates who live on...you guessed it, the second floor. Coming from a variety of musical backgrounds, this trio's playing is packed with a rich variety of flavors, influences, and sensibilities. They're breathing new life into music for English Country Dancing.

The band features Abe Joyner-Meyers (fiddle), Steven Bluestein (woodwinds), and Cecily Mills (cello). They welcome the incomparable stylings of Dave Wiesler (piano and guitar) as their guest of honor.

Tom Spilsbury, well regarded Mid-Atlantic ECD leader, known for his clear instruction, easy manner, and wide dance repertoire, promises an afternoon of delightful dancing.

Pre-registration is required. Attendance is capped to allow for comfortable dancing and unrestricted frivolity. After you register you receive a confirmation email with the address, parking instructions, and other important details about the event. Sorry, no drop ins.

Any questions: mwarshow@verizon.net Please write "English Country Dance" in the subject line.

The Second Floor is also playing FND's Friday Night Contra Dance on Friday, September 11th, and the Sunday Afternoon Dancing Planet Contra on Sunday, September 13th

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If you'd like to receive weekly reminders about the weekly FSGW English dances, please send an email to ecd.registrar@fsgw.org to be added to the list.

Information about our weekly English Country Dances

September Barn Dance (13 Sep 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 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: Lucia Schaefer

Music: Jim Morrison and TBA

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

Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Janine Smith and the Second Floor (13 Sep 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Sunday Afternoon Dancing Planet Contra Dance

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

Caller: Janine Smith

Band: The Second Floor (Abe Joyner-Meyers, Steven Bluestein, and Cecily Mills) with Robert Mills

Admission: $15 ($5 for folks under 17), 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/

Gospel Sing (13 Sep 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 20:00:00 GMT

FSGW Gospel Sing in Washington, DC

Sunday, September 13, 4 - 7 pm

The September 2026 Gospel Sing will take place at the home of Shirley Buzzard in Washington DC near the Waterfront Metro station. Group singing for two hours, from 4 - 6 pm, followed by a potluck dinner. Hymnals provided. Everyone is welcome, but be sure you are symptom-free. RSVP/directions: text or call Shirley at 202-288-3902 or email sbuzzard01@gmail.com or kpmack2@gmail.com

General information about Gospel Sings

International Folk Dancing (16 Sep 2026)

Wed, 16 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: Kappy Laning calls with Jacqueline Schwab, David Knight, and Ralph Gordon (16 Sep 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Kappy Laning leads the dancing while Jacqueline Schwab (guest pianist from MA), David Knight (fiddle), and Ralph Gordon (cello) 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 & Zoom (18 Sep 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 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 & VITG Storyswap (In Person) (19 Sep 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 19:00:00 GMT

VITG Monthly Story Swap

Saturday, September 19, 3 p.m. Gaithersburg, 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 (21 Sep 2026)

Mon, 21 Sep 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 (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.

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)

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)

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

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. We are still working on a few more.

Although the Getaway will not occur until the weekend of October 2 to October 5, 2026, it is helpful if you can register early. The deadline 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.

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

This year's shirt design -

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

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

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

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 (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

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (19 Oct 2026)

Mon, 19 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

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.

Caller: Beth Molaro

Band: Laura and the Lava Lamps (Laura Legnick, Dave Wiesler, and Ralph Gordon)

Admission: $15, 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

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 ~

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

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.

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (17 Nov 2026)

Wed, 18 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

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. 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 Rhys Jones & Max Newman

To have the most FUN at this afternoon of Challenging Squares, 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!

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

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

Challenging Contras 7:00-10:00pm

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 Ballroom Blum in Adelphi, MD.

Come early for the Challenging Squares

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

Will Mentor calls with music by Rhys Jones & Max Newman. What a lineup!

To have the most FUN at this evening of Challenging Contras, 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!

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

Saturday, November 8th Challenging Dances at Ballroom Blum, cosponsored by FSGW

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

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

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (15 Dec 2026)

Wed, 16 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

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.