Contra & Community Dances
Contra Dances in Franklin are on hiatus for winter and part of spring until the repairs at the Macon County Library are finished. Other parts of the Library are still open and holding activities, but the wood (dance) floor is directly below the roof repairs.
However, we are excited to be hosting a contra dance at Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center in Franklin on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Details are in our calendar.
About the Dances
Contra Dance — including contras, squares, round, and several other types of group folk dances — to live music, every Third Thursday of the month, year-round (except winter/spring of 2025, see above) at the Macon County Library in Franklin, NC. Each dance is taught, and then instructions continue to be called in time to the music by an experienced "caller." Beginners are most welcome!
Different callers and bands each month add to the variety!
Suggested donation: $10/person (kids age 14 & under are free)
First-timers dance FREE! Bring a few friends to try Contra Dancing for free!
Lesson at 6:30pm. Dance 7-9pm.
Arrive at 6:30 to get a jump-start on the moves!
Details about each month's dance are in our Stand-alone Events calendar and also on the Contra Dance’s facebook page, links below.
Bring a closed water container and a snack if you choose. Smooth-soled shoes work best on the Library's wonderful wood floor. Please do not wear perfume or scents to the dances.
Dances for Youth
Afternoon session series of traditional Appalachian Dance features basic square, circle, and contra dance movements held on select Thursdays in the Macon County Public Library’s spacious Living Room, with a professional dance teacher and caller.
This free event is geared to elementary school-age youth and their families. The emphasis is on FUN!! As all these easy-to-learn dances are taught, beginners are welcome and you don’t need to bring a partner. There will be some adults present who are familiar with the moves to help the beginners. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; no sandals, please.
Details about each of these dances will be in our Stand-alone Events calendar.
“You don't give a man a weapon until you've taught him how to dance.”
— Celtic proverb
The dances are funded in part by The James Edward Hudock Trust and produced by the Arts Council of Macon County, Friends of Contra Dance in Macon County, and the Macon County Public Library. Thank you sponsors!