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FSGW Calendar

Look through our calendar below to find both in person and online events.

The FSGW Calendar can be viewed two ways:

Upcoming events

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

    • 31 Mar 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Linda Mansdorf 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

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Caroline Barnes calling with Rebecca Weiss, Rose Jackson and Charlie Pilzer

    • 31 Mar 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 225
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Caroline Barnes

    Caroline not only a local caller and organizer, she is also the vice-president of FSGW! She believes wholeheartedly that participatory dance is a social good, and she is committed to facilitating a joyful synthesis of music, movement, and community from the microphone. When she is not putting together a social dance, you can find Caroline dancing with her rapper team, Sligo Creek Sword.

    Band: Charlie Pilzer, Rebecca Weiss and Rose Jackson

    Rose, Rebecca, and Charlie represent a confluence of the rivers of contra dance music of New England and the mid-Atlantic. Rose hails from Western Massachusetts, Charlie from Maryland, and Rebecca from both. Together, they bring sparkling jigs like the stars on a clear winter evening, driving reels like maple sap running in the spring, waltzes like porch sitting in the hot summer, and twin fiddle harmonies bright as the colors in autumn. Hang on for new twists on old tunes and old twists on new tunes!

    Also, Charlie Pilzer is the FSGW President! 


    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 


    More info on FSGW's Covid response here

    Show details

  • Potomac River Shape Note Singing Convention, 2023

    • 01 Apr 2023
    • 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Lacy Woods Park, 1200 N George Mason Dr, Arlington, VA 22205

    Potomac River Shape Note Singing Convention!

    Saturday April 1, 2023, 10am-3:30pm

    Potluck Dinner on the Grounds, 12:30pm, social to follow

    Lacey Woods Park (rear picnic shelter)

    1200 N George Mason Dr, Arlington, VA 22205   

    Plenty of street parking

    Site info: Restrooms, children’s playground, and public water fountain on site (50-yard walk on paved path). No electricity.

    Drop off: https://goo.gl/maps/buo6tATsmXnJmccx9 (or enter other end of park to avoid stairs)

    We'll sing from the Shenandoah Harmony & the Sacred Harp (1991)


    Covid Precautions: Same-day negative covid test expected. Masks welcomed, but optional. This event will take place outdoors.

    Please bring a folding chair if you have one, books if you have them (Loaners available)

    The convention is free and open to the public. All are welcome---no experience necessary!


    Shape note singing is an American a cappella tradition with roots in the Colonial period. Characterized by open 4-part harmonies and a powerful sound, shape note singing is music designed primarily for participation, rather than for performance. For more information about The Sacred Harp, The Shenandoah Harmony, or shape note singing, visit fasola.org or shenandoahharmony.com




    Show details

  • Family Dance: Lucia Schaefer calling with Charlie, Rebecca, and Rose

    • 02 Apr 2023
    • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo Annex, Glen Echo, MD
    Register

    Family dance in the Glen Echo Annex at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. 

    Caller: Lucia Schaefer

    Music: Charlie Pilzer,  Rebecca Weiss and Rose Jackson 

    Rose, Rebecca, and Charlie represent a confluence of the rivers of contra dance music of New England and the mid-Atlantic. Rose hails from Western Massachusetts, Charlie from Maryland, and Rebecca from both. Together, they bring sparkling jigs like the stars on a clear winter evening, driving reels like maple sap running in the spring, waltzes like porch sitting in the hot summer, and twin fiddle harmonies bright as the colors in autumn. Hang on for new twists on old tunes and old twists on new tunes!


    Covid Info: Masks required. Proof of vaccination required for dancers 12 years and older. Vaccination highly encouraged for children 11 years and younger.

    Tickets will be sold at the door.

    Note: This dance has been moved to the first Sunday this month to avoid meeting on Easter

    General information on our Family Dance web page

    Show details

  • April Gospel Sing (in-person)

    • 02 Apr 2023
    • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Takoma Park, MD

    NOTE: To avoid meeting on Easter and to take advantage of Daylight Saving Time, the April Gospel Sing will meet on April 2nd in the late afternoon. Group singing will take place for two hours, from 4 - 6 pm. Hymnals provided. Everyone is welcome, but be sure you are vaccinated and symptom-free, and please bring your mask with you. The Sing will take place in the back garden of Arthur & Barbara Karpas in Takoma Park MD, only two blocks from the Takoma Metro Station on the Red Line. RSVP/directions: email bakbeat@verizon.net or kpmack2@gmail.com, or call 301-270-4239.

    General information about Gospel Sings

    Show details

  • FSGW Board Meeting by video conference

    • 04 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Video conference meeting

    On Tuesday, April 4th, 2023, the FSGW Board will meet from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. 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

    • 05 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM
    • Glen Echo, MD & Online

    Mostly Balkan international folk dance instruction for all levels at 8 pm. Request dancing beginning at 9 pm. To register, please send a photo of your vax card showing proof of booster, your email and phone number (for contact tracing) to Jamie at dancingplanet@erols.com.

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


    Show details

  • English Country Dance: April Blum with live music (in person)

    • 05 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
    • Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
    • 43
    Register

    April Blum calls to the playing of Robin Wilson (flute), Mari Carlson (fiddle), and Melissa Running (piano)

    In-person dancing at Glen Echo Town Hall

    • Online registration for the in-person dance at Glen Echo Town Hall will open a week before this event (i.e., Thursday morning).  You may register in advance (preferred) or at the door.  Attendance will be limited to 44 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 precautions: Per FSGW policy for Tier 1 events (https://www.fsgw.org/FSGW-covid19-response), all participants must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (with at least one booster).  Dancers must provide proof of full vaccination with at least one booster (completed at least two weeks before the dance) at the door--we only need to see this once.
    • We are requiring KN95 or N95 masks and will have open windows (dress appropriately!) with fans running to improve ventilation.  If you can't purchase your own KN95 or N95 mask beforehand, KN95 masks will be available at the dance ($1 each).
    • Snacks will not be served; you may bring your own and eat outside during the break (tap water will be available).

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

    ---

    General information on our English Country Dance (in-person) web page


    Show details

  • April Online Open Sing

    • 07 Apr 2023
    • 7:30 PM
    • Online via Zoom

    As per Fred Stollnitz's suggestion, we will go with with no topic and no announced host.

    Topic: None, a truly OPEN Sing!

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

    Reminder:

    Registration will be open til Noon on 4/7/23.


    Zoom Link will be sent to the Open Sing Mailing List, if you're not a member, sign up at https://groups.io/g/FSGWOpenSings


    SignUp:

    https://bit.ly/April-2023-FSGW-Online-Open-Sing-Signup

    Singers List:

    https://bit.ly/April-2023-FSGW-Online-Open-Sing-List

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 07 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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 8:00-9:30pm.

    More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)



    Show details

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Perry Shafran calling with the Dead Sea Squirrels

    • 07 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo, MD
    • 248
    Register

    Contra dance in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Perry Shafran

    Band: Dead Sea Squirrels (Cathy Mason on fiddle, Craig Edwards on fiddle, and Henry Yoshimura on guitar)

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 


    More info on FSGW's Covid response here

    Show details

  • (Online) FSGW & VITG Storyswap for April 2023

    • 08 Apr 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Washington, DC metropolitan area

    FSGW and Voices in the Glen invite storytellers and listeners to an evening of shared stories. Anyone is welcome to tell a tale; no one ever has to. Event details and Zoom link here.

    Cost: FREE!

    General information on Story Swaps

    Show details

  • Grapevine Storytelling online, with Linda Goss and Claire Hennessy

    • 12 Apr 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Online
    Register

    Our featured tellers this month are the foundational Linda Goss and the surprising Claire Hennessy!

    Please register FOR FREE. You will get an email with the necessary Zoom information. We ask for donations to support our tellers, suggested $15 per person. Donations can be made online before, during, or after the event. 

    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:

    Linda Goss is a tradition bearer, a premier contributor to the art of storytelling, and a co-founder of the National Association of Black Storytellers. “Mama” Linda grew in the tradition from listening at the feet of her Grandaddy Murphy and on the knee of her Uncle Buster in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Alcoa, Tennessee. She is the author of seven books and she has two albums of storytelling with Smithsonian Folkways. In 2019, she was named an NEA National Heritage Fellow.

    More about Linda


    British-born Claire Hennessy is a storyteller, podcaster (The Bonkers Brit) and author. She performs funny, true and often embarrassing stories about her husband and kids around the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been published in numerous award-winning anthologies and is hoping to find an agent for her humorous memoir before she is too old to go on a book tour.

    More about Claire. Catch her podcast here


    For more information go to The Grapevine (Storytelling)

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing

    • 12 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM
    • Glen Echo, MD & Online

    Mostly Balkan international folk dance instruction for all levels at 8 pm. Request dancing beginning at 9 pm. To register, please send a photo of your vax card showing proof of booster, your email and phone number (for contact tracing) to Jamie at dancingplanet@erols.com.

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


    Show details

  • English Country Dance: Melissa Running with live music (in person)

    • 12 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
    • Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
    • 44

    Melissa Running leads the dancing while Tina Chancey (fiddle), Paul Oorts (mandolin and accordion), and Francine Krasowska (piano) play

    In-person dancing at Glen Echo Town Hall

    • Online registration for the in-person dance at Glen Echo Town Hall will open a week before this event (i.e., Thursday morning).  You may register in advance (preferred) or at the door.  Attendance will be limited to 44 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 precautions: Per FSGW policy for Tier 1 events (https://www.fsgw.org/FSGW-covid19-response), all participants must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (with at least one booster).  Dancers must provide proof of full vaccination with at least one booster (completed at least two weeks before the dance) at the door--we only need to see this once.
    • We are requiring KN95 or N95 masks and will have open windows (dress appropriately!) with fans running to improve ventilation.  If you can't purchase your own KN95 or N95 mask beforehand, KN95 masks will be available at the dance ($1 each).
    • Snacks will not be served; you may bring your own and eat outside during the break (tap water will be available).

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

    ---

    General information on our English Country Dance (in-person) web page


    Show details

  • Silver Spring Contra Dance: Janine Smith calling with Charm City Junction. 10th Anniversary Celebration!

    • 13 Apr 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Silver Spring Civic Building 8525 Fenton Street, Silver Spring MD 20910
    • 199
    Register

    The 10th anniversary of the Thursday Silver Spring Contra Dance!

    In the Great Hall (wood floor) at the Silver Spring Civic Building. 

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

    Caller: Janine Smith

    Band: Charm City Junction (Brad Kolodner, Alex Lacquement, Sean McComiskey, and Patrick McAvinue)

    Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

    Lesson at 7:00pm, Dance is from 7:30pm to 9:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • Schweinhaut Song Circle

    • 14 Apr 2023
    • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Schweinhaut Senior Center or Online via Zoom

    The monthly Schweinhaut 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 Earth Day (April 22) and springtime, bring or request your favorite Spring songs, or songs about the environment, or any other songs! We'll go around the room as many times as we can, giving everyone a chance to lead or request a song (or just pass) during each round. 

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

    Susan McNelis will lead songs with guitar accompaniment, and any participant may lead any song, a cappella or self-accompanied. 

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

    The in-person session will be held under FSGW's COVID-19 Policy Tier 2 guidelines: Participants are encouraged, but not required,

    • to pre-register (see below),
    • to show proof of having completed a full course of a COVID-19 vaccine (including boosters if eligible) before March 31,
    • to wear a mask except while leading a song.

    If you can't come in person, you can 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 have attended the Schweinhaut Song Circle using Zoom and to others who register at https://forms.gle/jr4sR9tmu6VRMBdN8 by Thursday, April 13.   

    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, if you installed Zoom on your computer before March 20, go to zoom.us/download to download and install the current version (5.14.0) of Zoom Client for Meetings. For a smartphone or tablet, update the Zoom app from your App Store or equivalent source.

    Join us on April 14 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

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: David Giusti calling with the Jumping Sharks

    • 14 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 249
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: David Giusti

    Band: Jumping Sharks (Emily Aubrey, Robin Wilson, and Michael Raitzyk)

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 14 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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

  • Co-Sponsored Concert (online): Archie Fisher

    • 15 Apr 2023
    • 4:00 PM
    • On-line
    Register

    A special co-sponsored Afternoon/Evening* with Archy Fisher

    Online • Saturday, April 15, 2023 • 4 pm (Eastern US time)

    Streamed live from Falcon Audio Visual Arts Studio, Whitby, UK, via YouTube

    (*afternoon in the US, evening in the UK)

    Archie Fisher is a legendary figure in the Scottish folk music world. Born into a family of musicians he learned to play guitar as a child, later forming a duo with his siblings, as well as performing as The Fisher Family. Since then he has been a songwriter and solo artist. 

    Click on the registration button to get the link!

    Cost to register: free; Suggested donation: A give-what-you-can donation ($10 per person suggested; more always welcome) goes directly to the artist. 

    As per usual with concerts of this kind, the proverbial tip jar will be available for those who wish to make an additional contribution to the artist. It will scroll along the bottom of the computer screen: paypal.me/tulip0852 (you don’t have to have a PayPal account for this; just click on the link and follow the instruction, which include how to pay with a credit card). Or just click here:

    Donate to the Performer [N.B.: Rob van Sante of Falcon Audio Visual Arts Studio is collecting the money for the artists]

    Note that this event is on the YouTube platform rather than our usual Zoom platform. And it originates on a Saturday afternoon.

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing

    • 19 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM
    • Glen Echo, MD & Online

    Mostly Balkan international folk dance instruction for all levels at 8 pm. Request dancing beginning at 9 pm. To register, please send a photo of your vax card showing proof of booster, your email and phone number (for contact tracing) to Jamie at dancingplanet@erols.com.

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


    Show details

  • English Country Dance: Dan Gillespie with live music (in person)

    • 19 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
    • Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
    • 44

    Dan Gillespie calls while Colleen Holroyd (fiddle), Colleen Reed (flute), and Liz Donaldson (piano) make the music

    In-person dancing at Glen Echo Town Hall

    • Online registration for the in-person dance at Glen Echo Town Hall will open a week before this event (i.e., Thursday morning).  You may register in advance (preferred) or at the door.  Attendance will be limited to 44 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 precautions: Per FSGW policy for Tier 1 events (https://www.fsgw.org/FSGW-covid19-response), all participants must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (with at least one booster).  Dancers must provide proof of full vaccination with at least one booster (completed at least two weeks before the dance) at the door--we only need to see this once.
    • We are requiring KN95 or N95 masks and will have open windows (dress appropriately!) with fans running to improve ventilation.  If you can't purchase your own KN95 or N95 mask beforehand, KN95 masks will be available at the dance ($1 each).
    • Snacks will not be served; you may bring your own and eat outside during the break (tap water will be available).

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

    ---

    General information on our English Country Dance (in-person) web page


    Show details

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Janine Smith calling with the Faux Paws

    • 21 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo, MD
    • 248
    Register

    Contra dance in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Janine Smith

    Band: Faux Paws (Noah VanNorstrand, Chris Miller, and Owen Morrison)

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 21 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Larry Weiner 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

  • Concert (In-Person): The Faux Paws

    • 22 Apr 2023
    • 7:30 PM
    • Seekers Church, 276 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC
    • 98
    Register

    April 22, in person concert with The Faux Paws. Seekers Church, 276 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC. Steps from Takoma Metro! Doors open at 7:00 pm, Concert starts at 7:30. 

    ABOUT THE ARTISTS - 

    The Faux Paws' contagious groove and feel-good sound have been honed over ten years of playing together. It's the sound of brothers and close friends playing raging fiddle tunes, hot saxophone solos, songs of unrequited love, and a melting pot of other folk music. Brothers Andrew and Noah VanNorstrand grew up playing contra dance music with their musician mother in the band Great Bear. Chris Miller grew up in Florida; he was enamored with bluegrass and studied jazz before going on to play with GRAMMY nominated Cajun-country band The Revelers. Since meeting in 2012, the trio have toured across North America several times, sometimes under the name The Faux Paws. They spent that time learning about different styles of music from one another, and finding where their interests and skills could create unexpected and exciting new sounds. They'll be playing the contra dance at Glen Echo on April 21st and following it up with this concert on April 22nd! 

    More about The Faux Paws


    This is an FSGW Tier 1 event:

    • Masks (N95 / KN94 or equivalent) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be vaccinated with at least one booster. 
    • If you have not checked in at a previous in-person FSGW event, your vaccination status will be checked at the door. Please bring your card or a digital photo of your card and a government issued photo ID.


    Show details

  • English Country Dance: Anna Rain with live music (in person)

    • 26 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
    • Glen Echo Town Hall 6106 Harvard Avenue, Glen Echo, MD 20812
    • 44
    Anna Rain calls to the music of Becky Ross (fiddle),  Bruce Edwards (bassoon), and Neil Epstein (piano)

    In-person dancing at Glen Echo Town Hall

    • Online registration for the in-person dance at Glen Echo Town Hall will open a week before this event (i.e., Thursday morning).  You may register in advance (preferred) or at the door.  Attendance will be limited to 44 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 precautions: Per FSGW policy for Tier 1 events (https://www.fsgw.org/FSGW-covid19-response), all participants must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (with at least one booster).  Dancers must provide proof of full vaccination with at least one booster (completed at least two weeks before the dance) at the door--we only need to see this once.
    • We are requiring KN95 or N95 masks and will have open windows (dress appropriately!) with fans running to improve ventilation.  If you can't purchase your own KN95 or N95 mask beforehand, KN95 masks will be available at the dance ($1 each).
    • Snacks will not be served; you may bring your own and eat outside during the break (tap water will be available).

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

    ---

    General information on our English Country Dance (in-person) web page


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  • International Folk Dancing

    • 26 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM
    • Glen Echo, MD & Online

    Mostly Balkan international folk dance instruction for all levels at 8 pm. Request dancing beginning at 9 pm. To register, please send a photo of your vax card showing proof of booster, your email and phone number (for contact tracing) to Jamie at dancingplanet@erols.com.

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


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  • Online English Country Dance - Caller: Melissa Running

    • 27 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom

    Join us online for an evening of English Country Dancing. Our caller this month will be Melissa Running.

    Our talented caller has put together a program of dances adapted for one or two dancers.

    We will be using Zoom video conference.  To get details on how to attend, visit the English Country Dance (online) page

    --------

    Each month we will be collecting contributions to the caller (turns out it is more work to prepare an evening of dances for people dancing solo, or in pairs, in their homes).  To contribute to this month's caller, please use the link below:

    Online ECD caller contribution

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

    • 28 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Linda Mansdorf 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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  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: April Blum calling with Carl Friedman, Ralph Barthine, and Janina O'Brien

    • 28 Apr 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 249
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: April Blum

    Band: Carl Friedman, Ralph Barthine, and Janine O'Brien

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

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  • FSGW Board Meeting by video conference

    • 02 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Video conference meeting

    On Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023, the FSGW Board will meet from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. 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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  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: TBA calling with Trio Con Brio

    • 05 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 250
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: TBA

    Band: Trio Con Brio

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 05 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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 8:00-9:30pm.

    More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)



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  • 37th Annual Washington Spring Ball (English Country Dance)

    • 06 May 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Silver Spring Civic Building - Great Hall, Silver Spring, MD
    • 52
    Register

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

    Music will be provided by Terpsichore: Elke Baker (fiddle), Liz Donaldson (piano), and Ralph Gordon (cello). 

    A dance program put together by April Blum and Melissa Running will be prompted by our local callers.

    An afternoon practice session at the Civic Center will run from 2:00 - 5:00 pm on the day of the ball and is included in the ball admission fee. April Blum and Melissa Running will lead the practice session with music provided by Tina Chancey (fiddle) and Paul Oorts (mandolin, cittern, musette accordion, and guitar). 
    • Covid precautions: The health and safety of the dance community is our top priority, and thus, per FSGW's current policy for Tier 1 events all participants must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (with at least one booster) and wear KN-95 or N-95 masks. Participants must provide proof of full vaccination with at least one booster (completed at least two weeks before the ball) at the door unless they previously did so at a FSGW event. If you can't purchase your own KN-95 or N-95 mask beforehand, KN-95 masks will be available at the ball ($1 each).
    • The Civic Center is a Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Star Accredited facility that was equipped with MERV13 air filters at the beginning of the pandemic.  

    Please visit the 37th Annual Washington Spring Ball page for additional details.

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  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Julian Blechner calling with the Glen Echo Open Band

    • 12 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 250
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Julian Blechner

    Band: Glen Echo Open Band

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm

    Calling all musicians! The Glen Echo Open Band is scheduled to play for the May 12th contra dance (organized by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW), which will take place in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park from 8-11pm. If you are interested in helping to provide exciting, high-energy live music for contra dancers, please join us! Musicians of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate.

    If you would like to be paid after playing the dance, please complete a W-9 form and either submit it electronically at this link to FSGW or present a physical copy to the check-in table at the dance.

    Click here for more info about the open band, or here for a tune list. 

    Please note that all are strongly encouraged to preregister (which can be done here) and must abide by the following policies during the dance:


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 


    More info on FSGW's Covid response here



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

    • 12 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Linda Mansdorf 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

  • (Online) FSGW & VITG Storyswap for May 2023

    • 13 May 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Washington, DC metropolitan area

    FSGW and Voices in the Glen invite storytellers and listeners to an evening of shared stories. Anyone is welcome to tell a tale; no one ever has to. Event details and Zoom link here.

    Cost: FREE!

    General information on Story Swaps

    Show details

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Jack Mitchell calling with the Rhythamajigs

    • 19 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo, MD
    • 250
    Register

    Contra dance in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Jack Mitchell

    Band: The Rhythamajigs (Patti Reum on flutes and whistles, Jack Maus on keyboard and Michael Giardano on fiddle and mandolin)

    The Rhythmajigs are a contra dance band, specializing in New England, Celtic and French Canadian syle tunes, but they also enjoy playing waltzes, and some Southern style, circle and square dances.

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 19 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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

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

    • 26 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Linda Mansdorf 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

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: TBA calling with the Sligo Creek Stompers

    • 26 May 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 250
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: TBA

    Band: Sligo Creek Stompers (Chris Ousley, Sarah Foard, and Adrian "Clamp"Erlinger)

    The Sligo Creek Stompers play a raucous but refined blend of traditional roots music, which includes Appalachian and Midwestern old time and bluegrass, New Orleans ragtime and traditional jazz, haunted Irish fiddle tunes, classic country, and Texas and gypsy swing.

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 02 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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 8:00-9:30pm.

    More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)



    Show details

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: TBA calling to Are We There Yet?

    • 02 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 250
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: TBA

    Band: Are We There Yet? (Susan Brandt - flute, Tom Wright - 10 string mandolin, Tina Chancey - fiddle, Charlie Pilzer - piano)

    Collectively, over 200 years of musical experience!


    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • Washington Folk Festival

    • 03 Jun 2023
    • 12:00 PM
    • 04 Jun 2023
    • 7:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park

    The Washington Folk Festival at historic Glen Echo Park is back for its 41st year. This free festival will run from 12 noon to 7 pm rain-or-shine on Saturday and Sunday, June 3 and 4.

    The Festival is a celebration of the many cultural traditions that are a part of our Greater Washington community. The Festival also features music, dance and song from the many international cultures represented in the DMV area

    More information is available at washingtonfolkfestival.org. The Washington Folk Festival is produced by the Folklore Society of Greater Washington and the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture, in partnership with the National Park Service and Montgomery County, Maryland.



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  • FSGW Board Meeting by video conference

    • 06 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Video conference meeting

    On Tuesday, June 6th, 2023, the FSGW Board will meet from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. 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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  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Penelope Weinberger calling to Squirrel's Chair

    • 09 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 250
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Penelope Weinberger

    Band: Squirrel's Chair (Nathalie Levine on fiddle, Nathan Bishop on fiddle, Judy Minot on keyboard)


    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

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

    • 09 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Linda Mansdorf 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

  • (Online) FSGW & VITG Storyswap for June 2023

    • 10 Jun 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Washington, DC metropolitan area

    FSGW and Voices in the Glen invite storytellers and listeners to an evening of shared stories. Anyone is welcome to tell a tale; no one ever has to. Event details and Zoom link here.

    Cost: FREE!

    General information on Story Swaps

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 16 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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) - In-Person

    • 23 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Larry Weiner 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) - In-Person

    • 30 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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

  • Friday Night Contra and Square Dance: Will Mentor and Frannie Marr calling with Stomp Rocket

    • 30 Jun 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo, MD
    • 248
    Register

    Contra dance in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD. Co-sponsored by Friday Night Dancers and FSGW.

    Caller: Will Mentor and Frannie Marr

    Band: Stomp Rocket 

    All dances will be taught. 

    Lesson at 7:30pm, Dance is at 8:00pm.


    Join us Saturday and Sunday, July 1st - 2nd, for #Dance Weekend to continue the fun! Register for #Dance here (#Dance is a Tier 2 Covid Policy event)


    COVID Policy: This is an FSGW Tier 1 event, which means -

    • 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.
    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are required at all times.
    • All participants must be able to show proof of vaccination with at least one booster. 

    Click on this link to view the FSGW COVID-19 Response policy

    Show details

  • #Dance Weekend 2023

    • 01 Jul 2023
    • 10:00 AM
    • 02 Jul 2023
    • 6:00 PM
    • Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD
    Register

    #Dance weekend returns! 

    Come dance in the famous Bumper Car Pavilion and Friday night in the Spanish Ballroom, to the calling of Will Mentor and Frannie Marr with music from the Mean Lids (Ben Smith, Miriam Larson, and Matt Turino) and Stomp Rocket (Bethany Waickman, Dave Langford, and Glen Loper).

    Our callers for the weekend plus Stomp Rocket will also be playing the Friday Night Dance at Glen Echo on June 30th, an event adjacent to the weekend and with separate registration. Learn more or register here.

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

    #Dance Weekend is an ultra challenging urban dance weekend featuring mind bending figures, non-gendered calling, and phenomenal music. Two days of amazing workshops, dancing, community, fun, and food in the fabulous open air, covered Bumper Car Pavilion; workshops throughout Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD


    Covid Protocols -

    If covid transmission rates are low in Maryland, DC, and Virginia at the time of the event, this will be an FSGW Tier 2 event, which means:

    • Masks (N95 / KN95 / KF94) are suggested but not required.
    • Participants are encouraged to be vaccinated with at least one booster.


    About the Artists -

    Stomp Rocket is a New England based trio that delivers high energy foot-stomping dance music for Contra dancing!  The band consists of fiddler extraordinaire Dave Langford (The Latter Day Lizards, Supertrad), DADGAD guitar monster and pianist Bethany Waickman (Anadama, Eloise & Co.), and tenor banjo and mandolin wild man Glen Loper (Frigate, Riptide).  They’ve played for Contras throughout New England, and at dance weekends from Alaska to Tennessee, and Quebec to Florida. Occasionally they can also be tempted into playing for English Country Dance

    Mean Lids are only as mean as they need to be to keep the grit in their tones and the edge on their tunes, they are never seen without their signature cranial apparel. Spot them by their hats, their long lonesome sounds, and the @$$ kicking "chin-cello" grooves emanating from their mean, mean fiddle fingers.

    Will Mentor is a contra and square dance caller from Northern Vermont known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight. As he once said, “I usually have a great time calling. Between the demographics of the dancers, the band, the hall, the temperature, etc. — every evening of contra dances has its own identity.” And always, he keeps intact his guiding principle as a caller: “It’s about the dancers!”

    Frannie Marr is a caller and dance organizer residing in Southern California. After being dragged to a contra dance by her sister, Frannie fell so in love with dancing that she began teaching contra dances to her elementary school students. Shortly after a successful (though intimidating) calling debut at an open mike night, Frannie called her first full night when a friend asked her to cover on short notice. She’s been calling regularly ever since!


    Design for #Dance Weekend 2023 T-Shirts -


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  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 07 Jul 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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 8:00-9:30pm.

    More information: International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt)



    Show details

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

    • 14 Jul 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 15 Crescent Road Greenbelt MD

    Linda Mansdorf 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

  • (Online) FSGW & VITG Storyswap for July 2023

    • 15 Jul 2023
    • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Washington, DC metropolitan area

    FSGW and Voices in the Glen invite storytellers and listeners to an evening of shared stories. Anyone is welcome to tell a tale; no one ever has to. Event details and Zoom link here.

    Cost: FREE!

    General information on Story Swaps

    Show details

  • International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person

    • 21 Jul 2023
    • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
    • 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) - In-Person & Zoom

    <