Corner Dance Hall

- 200 Franklin St, Whittington, IL 62897

For those in Southern Illinois looking for a place to enjoy live music, dance the night away, or host a special event, the Corner Dance Hall in Whittington is a local institution that holds a unique place in the community. More than just a simple venue, it's a hub of entertainment and social gatherings, known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent live music, and welcoming spirit. This establishment proudly identifies as a veteran-owned business, which adds to its sense of community and strong local ties. It's a place where generations come together to share in the timeless joy of dancing, whether it’s a casual Friday night or a milestone family reunion.

The dance hall is a testament to the enduring appeal of live music and shared experiences. It offers a lively and clean environment that is suitable for all ages, making it a true family-friendly destination. From the talented musicians who grace the stage to the enthusiastic dancers who fill the floor, the energy is always positive and infectious. As a key venue near Rend Lake, it has become a go-to spot for celebrations and gatherings of all kinds, solidifying its role as a vital part of the social fabric of the region. This guide will provide a detailed look at everything Corner Dance Hall has to offer and why it should be on your list of places to visit in Illinois.

Corner Dance Hall is located at 200 Franklin St, Whittington, IL 62897. Its address places it in the heart of Southern Illinois, making it a convenient and central spot for residents of surrounding towns. The location is just a few minutes from Rend Lake, five miles north of Benton, and fifteen miles south of Mount Vernon, positioning it as an ideal meeting point for people across the region. Accessibility is a key feature of this venue, as it offers both a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy the music and dancing without any barriers. The venue is easy to find, with a prominent spot on Franklin Street that makes it a straightforward destination for new visitors and regulars alike.

The Corner Dance Hall provides a range of services that cater to both public events and private gatherings, making it a versatile and comprehensive venue.

• Dancing

  At its core, the venue is a dance hall dedicated to the art of dancing. This is its main offering, with a spacious dance floor and a regular schedule of events that get people moving. It is a place where both experienced and novice dancers feel comfortable and encouraged to participate. The atmosphere is consistently noted as being lively and fun, creating the perfect backdrop for a great night out.

• Live Music

  A major draw for the dance hall is its commitment to live music. The venue features live bands every Friday night, providing a high-quality soundtrack for dancers. The bands, like the "Midnight Express Band of Central Illinois," are known for playing a great variety of music, from country and classics to other genres that appeal to a wide audience. The presence of live, talented musicians enhances the overall experience and sets the dance hall apart from venues that only use recorded music.

• Event Venue

  Beyond its public dance nights, the Corner Dance Hall is an "excellent venue for wedding receptions, big meals for family or class reunions." The space is well-suited to host a large number of people for private events. The ability to accommodate significant gatherings makes it a popular choice for milestone celebrations in the Southern Illinois area. Its reputation as a place for good times and good music translates perfectly to private parties.

• Dance Instruction

  The dance hall also offers professional dance instruction classes. This includes social dance classes and line dance classes. These lessons are a great way for newcomers to learn the steps and gain confidence, or for seasoned dancers to learn new techniques and styles. The availability of instruction makes the venue more than just a place to dance; it's a place to learn and grow.

Corner Dance Hall is celebrated in the Illinois community for several key highlights that make it a standout destination.

• Veteran-Owned Business

  The business identifies as veteran-owned, which is a point of pride and a significant highlight. This designation reflects a commitment to service, discipline, and community, values that are often found in veteran-owned enterprises. Supporting this business means supporting a veteran who has served our country.

• Family-Friendly and All-Ages Atmosphere

  The venue is noted as being "good for kids" and maintains an alcohol-free environment on Friday nights. This focus on being a family-friendly establishment ensures that people of all ages can enjoy the music and dancing. It’s a place where grandparents can dance with their grandchildren, and families can enjoy a night out together without concern.

• Quality Live Entertainment

  The consistent presence of live bands, and the high caliber of the musicians, is a major feature. As one review notes, the bands are "some of the best musicians Illinois has to offer." This commitment to providing quality entertainment is a key factor in the dance hall's popularity.

• Accessibility

  With a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, the venue shows a strong commitment to making its space available to everyone. This is a practical and important feature that makes a significant difference for many patrons and their families.

• Versatile Venue

  The fact that the hall is "excellent" for a variety of events—from wedding receptions to class reunions—highlights its flexibility and functionality. This makes it a multi-purpose resource for the community, capable of hosting both public and private functions with ease.

• Amenities

  The availability of a restroom is a basic but essential amenity that ensures comfort and convenience for all patrons during events.

For inquiries, event bookings, or to find out more about their schedule, you can easily get in touch with Corner Dance Hall.

Address: 200 Franklin St, Whittington, IL 62897, USA

Phone: (618) 303-5266

What makes Corner Dance Hall truly worth choosing as a destination in Southern Illinois is its unique and authentic identity as a community-focused, family-friendly venue. Unlike a sterile, corporate event space or a crowded, impersonal nightclub, Corner Dance Hall offers a warm and genuine experience. The combination of its veteran-owned status, commitment to quality live music, and inclusive, alcohol-free Friday nights sets it apart. The fact that they cater to a diverse range of people, from talented dancers to families with children, creates a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

The positive reviews from both performers and attendees, highlighting the "great fun" and "talented dancers," speak to the vibrant and engaging environment the dance hall has cultivated. The venue’s role as a space for big meals and receptions for family or class reunions demonstrates its importance as a place for celebrating life's moments. By choosing to spend your evening or host your event here, you are supporting a local, veteran-owned business that is dedicated to providing a positive and enriching experience for the community. Corner Dance Hall is more than just a building; it is a lively and essential part of the Southern Illinois social scene, where every beat of the music is a step towards a shared good time.

Corner Dance Hall

200 Franklin St, Whittington, IL 62897, USA