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• Dancing Planet House Concert with the Syncopaths

  • When
    01 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • Location
    Potomac, MD

  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

  Show details
• 2026 FSGW Getaway

  • Start
    02 Oct 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    05 Oct 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • Location
    United Methodist West River Center, West River, MD

  Register

  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.

  
  

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    02 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

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• CONTRASTOCK 14, An all day dance event

  • When
    03 Oct 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Park Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
  • Spaces left
    91

  Register

  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 -

    
  

  
  

  Show details
• Heartwood Jam

  • When
    06 Oct 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Temple Hills, MD

  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

  Show details
• FSGW Board Meeting by video conference

  • When
    06 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  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

  
  

  
  

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• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    07 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• English Country Dance: Dan Gillespie calls with David Knight, Colleen Reed, and Francine Krasowska

  • When
    07 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
  • Spaces left
    50

  Register

  Dan Gillespie calls while David Knight (fiddle), Colleen Reed (flute), and Francine Krasowska (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.

  ---

  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

  
  

  Show details
• Silver Spring Contra Dance: Anna Rain calling with Sugar Beat

  • When
    08 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Silver Spring Civic Building, 8525 Fenton Street, Silver Spring MD 20910
  • Spaces left
    100

  Register

  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.

  Show details
• October Song Circle

  • When
    09 Oct 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Schweinhaut Senior Center or Online via Zoom

  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.

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom

  • When
    09 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• FSGW Picnic 2026

  • When
    11 Oct 2026
  •  
    11:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Park, MD

  Register

  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.

  Show details
• October Barn Dance

  • When
    11 Oct 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo Park, MD

  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

  Show details
• Gospel Sing

  • When
    11 Oct 2026
  •  
    4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Location
    Takoma Park, DC

  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
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Grapevine Storytelling with Karen Wilson Ama'Echefu and Cory Howard

  • When
    14 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Busboys and Poets Takoma, 235 Carroll St NW, Washington, D.C. 20012, or Online

  Register

  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

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    14 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• English Country Dance: Kappy Laning calls with Jeff Steinberg, Elisabeth Epstein, and Neil Epstein

  • When
    14 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
  • Spaces left
    50

  Register

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

  ---

  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

  
  

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom

  • When
    16 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Glen Echo Balkan Fest

  • When
    17 Oct 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Park Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo, MD

  Register

  Glen Echo Balkan Fest: A Celebration of Balkan Music and Dance

  Saturday, October 17, noon - 5pm in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park.

  Zlatne Uste Balkan Brass Band -  founded in 1983, based in New York, is the foremost presenter of traditional Balkan brass music in the US. They have performed for concerts, weddings, and festivals across the US and in the Balkans, from the halls of the Kennedy Center in Washington to the illustrious Guča Brass Festival in Serbia, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors. They were the first musicians from abroad to perform Serbian music at Guča, and they have been invited guests five times. Their 2010 visit was featured in the documentary Brasslands. They have released four albums of music for listening and dancing. In 1986, they created New York’s Golden Festival and have joyously sponsored it ever since. 

  Karpouzi plays music on traditional instruments from the Greek mainland and islands, and Asia Minor. In Greece, karpouzi means watermelon – sweet and tasting of summer.  Led by Dr. Spyros Koliavasilis, the Karpouzi ensemble is dedicated to preserving and sharing the beautiful and deeply-rooted repertoire of the many and varied regions of Greece. The group has played events sponsored by the Library of Congress, The Revels at Lisner Auditorium, Hill Center, Greek Embassy, Cypriot Embassy, Delegation of the European Union, and numerous restaurants, parties, camps and folk festivals, including many FSGW events. In 2025, Spyros was a winner of a prestigious Maryland "Heritage Award." Spyros Koliavasilis (vocals, oud, kemane, laouto), Margaret Loomis (santouri), Len Newman (laouto), and Niko Mitrione (oud, laouto, bouzouki).  See https://www.karpouzitrio.com/  and https://spyroskoliavasilismusic.com/ for more information!

  
  

  Woven throughout the day is A Journey Through Ex-Yugoslavia - A living celebration of shared Balkan heritage. Authentic folk costumes from Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Macedonia, Slovenia, Kosovo & Vojvodina from the collection of Biljana Regan and her take on new life as presented by Balkan Roots, LLC.

  …and more!

  
  

  Bring a picnic or purchase one at Praline Bakery at Glen Echo Park!

  Show details
• FSGW & VITG Storyswap (Online)

  • When
    17 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  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

  Show details
• All Folks Waltz

  • When
    19 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland St Arlington, VA 22201

  Register

  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.

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    21 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• Takoma Park Old-Time Jam

  • When
    21 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Busboys and Poets, 235 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012

  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

  Show details
• English Country Dance: Wendy Clarke calls with Carrie Rose, Becky Ross, and Liz Donaldson

  • When
    21 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
  • Spaces left
    50

  Register

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

  ---

  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

  
  

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    23 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Sharon McKinley Memorial Service and Dance

  • When
    24 Oct 2026
  •  
    10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Church of the Redeemer 5603 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD

  Sharon McKinley memorial service and dance sponsored by the Baltimore Folk Music Society
  

  Saturday 24 October 2026 at the Church of the Redeemer 5603 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD
  
  Gather at 10:30 AM to 11:00
  Memorial service 11:00 to 12:00
  English Dance for all 12:00 to 12:30
  Light refreshments 12:30 to 1:00
  Mixed English and Contra 1:00 to near 3:00
  
  Calling by Sharon’s calling friends with music by Jonathan Jensen, Paul Oorts, and Susan Brandt
  
  Anticipating people from disparate parts of Sharon’s life will attend including a performance by members of The Canticle Singers of Baltimore.
  
  Event is free but please register in advance at www.bfms.org so that they can estimate food needs.

  Show details
• Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Beth Molaro and Laura & the Lava Lamps

  • When
    25 Oct 2026
  •  
    2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo Park, MD

  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/

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    28 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• English Country Dance: Anna Rain calls with Emily Aubrey, Paul Oorts, and Bobby LaRose

  • When
    28 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
  • Spaces left
    50

  Register

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

  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.

  ---

  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

  
  

  Show details
• The Strayaways in Concert (Kevin Burke, Dylan Foley, and Eamon O'Leary)

  • When
    30 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Christ Church Accokeek 600 Farmington Road West Accokeek, Maryland, 20607

  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 ~ 

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom

  • When
    30 Oct 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• FSGW Board Meeting by video conference

  • When
    03 Nov 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  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

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    04 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    06 Nov 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• November Barn Dance

  • When
    08 Nov 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Back Room, Glen Echo Park, MD

  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

  
  

  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

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    11 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• Silver Spring Contra Dance: Penelope Weinberger calling with Jonathan Vocke & Sarah Collins

  • When
    12 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Silver Spring Civic Building, 8525 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910
  • Spaces left
    100

  Register

  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.

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom

  • When
    13 Nov 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    18 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• Takoma Park Old-Time Jam

  • When
    18 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Busboys and Poets, 235 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012

  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

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    20 Nov 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Challenging Squares

  • When
    21 Nov 2026
  •  
    2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    The Woman's Club of Arlington, 700 South Buchanan Street, Arlington, VA 22204
  • Spaces left
    86

  Register

  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 

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

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

  Challenging Contras 7:00-9:30pm

  Show details
• Challenging Contras

  • When
    21 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    The Woman's Club of Arlington, 700 South Buchanan Street, Arlington, VA 22204
  • Spaces left
    83

  Register

  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 

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

  Challenging Squares 2:30-5:00pm 

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

  Show details
• Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Will Mentor and Leeway

  • When
    22 Nov 2026
  •  
    2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo Park, MD

  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/

  Show details
• All Folks Waltz

  • When
    23 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland St Arlington, VA 22201

  Register

  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. 

  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

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing

  • When
    25 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Glen Echo, MD, & Online

  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

  Show details
• Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)

  • When
    27 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Online

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    04 Dec 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Silver Spring Contra Dance: Melissa Chatham calling with Frog Hammer

  • When
    10 Dec 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    Silver Spring Civic Building, 8525 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910
  • Spaces left
    100

  Register

  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

  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.

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• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom

  • When
    11 Dec 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

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• Takoma Park Old-Time Jam

  • When
    16 Dec 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Busboys and Poets, 235 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012

  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

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• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    18 Dec 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

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• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - NO DANCE (Holiday Vacation)

  • When
    25 Dec 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - NO DANCE (Holiday Vacation)

  • When
    01 Jan 2027
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

  • When
    08 Jan 2027
  •  
    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    15 Crescent Road, Greenbelt, MD

  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)
  

  
  

  
  

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• Hashdance Weekend 2027

  • Start
    27 Mar 2027
  • End
    28 Mar 2027
  • Location
    Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD
  • Spaces left
    257

  Register

  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) - 

     

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• Save the Date: 41st Annual Washington Spring Ball (English Country Dance)

  • When
    15 May 2027
  •  
    7:30 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Location
    Silver Spring Civic Building - Great Hall, Silver Spring, MD
  • Spaces left
    120

  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.
  

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