Delafield Contra Dance

- N14 W29143 Silvernail Rd, Pewaukee, WI 53072

For those in the Waukesha and greater Milwaukee areas looking for a unique and engaging way to connect with others, Delafield Contra Dance offers a vibrant and welcoming community. Contra dance is a traditional American folk dance that is accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience. It's a social dance form where dancers in two long lines face each other, weaving and swinging to the rhythm of live music. The atmosphere is always friendly and encouraging, making it a perfect activity for individuals, couples, and even entire families in Wisconsin.

What sets contra dance apart is its community-driven nature. Unlike many other dance forms, you don't need a partner to attend. The dances are structured to encourage everyone to dance with multiple people throughout the evening, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection. A skilled "caller" teaches each dance, walking through the moves before the music starts. This ensures that even complete beginners can jump right in and feel successful from the very first dance. The live music, often featuring fiddle, guitar, and other folk instruments, adds to the lively and authentic experience, filling the space with an infectious energy that's hard to resist.

Delafield Contra Dance embodies the spirit of a classic community gathering, blending traditional dance with a modern, inclusive mindset. It's a place where laughter and fun are as important as the steps themselves. For residents of Pewaukee, Delafield, and the surrounding areas, it offers a regular opportunity to engage in a healthy, social activity that is both physically and mentally stimulating. It's a chance to step away from the everyday routine and into a space filled with music, movement, and genuine human connection.

Delafield Contra Dance is held at the Prairie Hill Waldorf School, located at N14 W29143 Silvernail Rd, Pewaukee, WI 53072. This location is conveniently situated for residents of Waukesha County, with easy access from nearby cities like Brookfield and Waukesha. The venue is a local institution, providing a spacious and suitable setting for the dance with its large gymnasium floor.

The accessibility of the venue is a key feature, as it includes a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. This ensures that the event is open to a wider audience, reflecting the inclusive and welcoming spirit of the contra dance community. To find the entrance to the gymnasium, visitors should continue around the back of the school from the main road, where a dedicated parking lot and entrance are located, making it easy to get inside and start dancing.

When attending, dancers are asked to help protect the wooden floor by bringing a separate pair of clean, soft-soled shoes to change into. This simple request helps maintain the integrity of the space, ensuring it remains a great venue for future dances. The location's ease of access and accommodating features make Delafield Contra Dance a practical and enjoyable event for anyone in Southeast Wisconsin looking to participate in this unique cultural tradition.

Services Offered

• Regular Contra Dance Events: Monthly dances, typically held on the first Saturday of each month from September through June, providing a consistent schedule for dancers.
• Free Beginner's Lesson: A free introductory lesson is held before each dance, designed specifically for newcomers to learn the basic moves and terminology.
• Live Music: Each dance features a different live band, with music styles ranging from traditional Irish and Scottish to Old-Time and French-Canadian folk tunes.
• Experienced Callers: A skilled caller guides dancers through each sequence, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.
• Community and Social Interaction: The dances are designed to be highly social, with a welcoming atmosphere that encourages dancing with multiple partners throughout the evening.

Features / Highlights

• Wheelchair accessible parking lot: Committed to providing an inclusive environment for all attendees.
• Good for kids: A wholesome and fun activity suitable for children and families.
• No partner required: Dancers are encouraged to attend alone or with friends, as partners are found on the dance floor.
• Live Music: The presence of live folk bands elevates the experience and contributes to the energetic atmosphere.
• Educational and Social: It is both a physical activity and a social event, teaching a traditional dance form in a low-pressure setting.
• Regular Schedule: The consistent monthly schedule makes it easy for locals to plan to attend.

Contact Information

Address: N14 W29143 Silvernail Rd, Pewaukee, WI 53072, USA

Phone: (608) 697-4021

What is worth choosing

For residents of Wisconsin, choosing to attend Delafield Contra Dance is an excellent decision for a number of reasons. At its core, it offers a deeply social and engaging experience that stands out from other forms of entertainment. In a world increasingly focused on digital connection, contra dance provides a genuine, in-person alternative. The welcoming atmosphere means you can come alone or with friends and be certain you'll find partners and be included in the fun. The free beginner's lesson before each dance is a key feature, as it removes any intimidation a newcomer might feel and allows them to jump right into the action with confidence.

The unique blend of live music and movement is another major draw. The energy created by a live band is infectious, making the entire experience feel more vibrant and authentic than dancing to recorded music. The dances are structured yet spontaneous, as the caller's instructions keep things moving in a dynamic and ever-changing flow. It's a fantastic workout that doesn't feel like a chore, and it's an opportunity to learn a part of American folk history firsthand. The community is supportive and ready to help, embodying the spirit of "keep smiling and all is forgiven" that is often associated with the dance.

Finally, the convenience and accessibility of the event make it a perfect choice for local families. The location at the Prairie Hill Waldorf School is easy to get to, and the venue's amenities, including a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, show a commitment to inclusivity. The fact that it is "good for kids" means that parents can share a memorable and active evening with their children in a safe environment. For those in Waukesha and the surrounding communities, Delafield Contra Dance is more than just a dance—it’s a chance to become part of a lively and friendly tradition.

Delafield Contra Dance

N14 W29143 Silvernail Rd, Pewaukee, WI 53072, USA