FSGW upcoming events

July 2026 Online Open Sing (03 Jul 2026)

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Vince Wilding will be hosting the Online Open Sing on Friday, July 3, at 7:30 p.m.

The topic/theme will be "Protest Songs."

Only those wanting to sing need to register.

Singer's List is HERE

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (03 Jul 2026)

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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)

FSGW Board Meeting by video conference (07 Jul 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, July 7th, 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

International Folk Dancing (08 Jul 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

7:30 PM: beginning/intermediate/advanced teaching

8:30 to10 PM: 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

English Country Dance: April Blum calls with Catherine Chapman, Jeff Steinberg, and Diane Sorenson (08 Jul 2026)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

April Blum calls to the playing of Catherine Chapman (fiddle), Jeff Steinberg (fiddle), and Diane Sorenson (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.

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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

"Silver Spring" Contra Dance: Evan DeSmitt calling with Liz Donaldson & Elke Baker (09 Jul 2026)

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Please note: this dance is at the Seekers Church in Takoma, DC, across from the Takoma Metro Station, rather than at the usual location in Silver Spring.

Caller: Evan DeSmitt

Band: Liz Donaldson & Elke Baker

Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

Lesson at 7:00pm, Dance is from 7:30pm to 10:00pm

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.

Song Circle on summer break until September (10 Jul 2026)

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

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.

Before you join a Zoom session, go to zoom.us/download to download and install the latest version of the Zoom Workplace app (Version 7.1.0, released June 23). For a smartphone or tablet, update the Zoom app from your App Store or equivalent source.

For more information. see the Song Circles page.

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (10 Jul 2026)

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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)

July Barn Dance (12 Jul 2026)

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Barn Dance from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD.

Caller: Lucia Schaefer

Music: Zachary Mills & 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

Gospel Sing (12 Jul 2026)

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 20:00:00 GMT

FSGW Gospel Sing in Riverdale Park, MD

Sunday, July 12, 4 - 7 pm

The July 2026 Gospel Sing will take place in Johanna Miller's air-conditioned townhouse in Riverdale Park (n.b. climbing stairs is involved). Group singing for two hours, 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: text Johanna at 240-274-6847 or email Kathie Mack at kpmack2@gmail.com.

General information about Gospel Sings

Takoma Park Old-Time Jam (15 Jul 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

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

International Folk Dancing (15 Jul 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

English Country Dance: Kappy Laning and Wendy Clarke call with Elisabeth Epstein, Mari Carlson, and Neil Epstein and Liz Donaldson (15 Jul 2026)

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Kappy Laning and Wendy Clarke lead the dancing while Elisabeth Epstein (flute), Mari Carlson (fiddle), and Neil Epstein and Liz Donaldson (piano and accordion) play the tunes

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.

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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

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (17 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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)

FSGW & VITG Storyswap (In Person) (19 Jul 2026)

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:30:00 GMT

VITG Monthly Story Swap

Sunday, July 19, 2:30p.m. Beltsville, MD

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

International Folk Dancing (22 Jul 2026)

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

English Country Dance: Dan Gillespie calls with Becky Ross, Susan Brandt, and Liz Donaldson (22 Jul 2026)

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Dan Gillespie leads the dancing to the music of Becky Ross (fiddle), Susan Brandt (flute), and Liz Donaldson (piano)

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

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In Person & Zoom (24 Jul 2026)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

John Robinson 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)

International Folk Dancing (29 Jul 2026)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

English Country Dance: Andrea Nettleton calls with Niki Yeracaris, Robin Wilson, and Neil Epstein (29 Jul 2026)

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Andrea Nettleton calls to the music of Niki Yeracaris (fiddle), Robin Wilson (flute), and Neil Epstein (piano)

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

John Doyle in Concert at the Lyceum (31 Jul 2026)

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

FSGW Co-sponsored, John Doyle at the Historic Lyceum in Alexandria VA on Friday, July 31st at 7:30 pm

Name many of the most notable recordings and/or performers in Irish music and it's a fair bet that John Doyle had something to do with them. Liz Carroll; Eileen Ivers; Karan Casey; Solas; Michael Black; Mary Black; the trio of McCusker, McGoldrick and Doyle; The Teetotalers (Martin Hayes, Kevin Crawford, John Doyle); and now Usher's Island (Andy Irvine, Donal Lunny, Mike McGoldrick, Paddy Glackin and John Doyle) - a vertible who's who of the greatest names in Irish music. These are just a very few of the stellar artists for whom John Doyle's signature guitar sound, singing or songwriting is essential.

Location: Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum, 201 South Washington St.

Tickets / more info: https://ticketstripe.com/John-Doyle

Questions: alex@morrisdance.org

~ Part of the Traditional-music-at-the-lyceum concert series

International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) - In-Person (31 Jul 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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)

International Folk Dancing (05 Aug 2026)

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (07 Aug 2026)

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Hosted by Linda Mansdorf, John Robinson, Ben Hole, Carolyn Rapkievian & 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)

International Folk Dancing (12 Aug 2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Kappy Laning calling with Alexander Mitchell & Gina Faber (13 Aug 2026)

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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: Kappy Laning

Band: Alexander Mitchell & Gina Faber

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

Song Circle on summer break until September (14 Aug 2026)

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

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.

For more information. see the Song Circles page.

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (14 Aug 2026)

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Hosted by Linda Mansdorf, John Robinson, Ben Hole, Carolyn Rapkievian & 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)

International Folk Dancing (19 Aug 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (21 Aug 2026)

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Hosted by Linda Mansdorf, John Robinson, Ben Hole, Carolyn Rapkievian & 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)

Washington Folk Festival 2026 (23 Aug 2026)

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Save the Date:

The Washington Folk Festival returns on August 23, 2026

A one-day event, jam-packed roster with dancing, storytelling, and music ranging from American to International styles: bluegrass to Celtic, Klezmer to Americana, blues to Zydeco, we cover folk music from around the world! Five stages, hundreds of performers, and it's all free!

Please RSVP so we can get a sense of how many people are coming this year!

We are looking for volunteers! Sign up at https://wff.fsgw2.org/wff/volunteerform.php

In addition to being part of a team of awesome helpers, volunteers get food from lovely food trucks, a special pin, and lots of smiles and appreciation! Students can also get SSL hours for volunteering!

Donate to Support the Festival

Learn more about the Washington Folk Festival

International Folk Dancing (26 Aug 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The Glen Echo Folk Dancers will be meeting in-person every Wednesday evening at Glen Echo Park (7300 MacArthur Blvd).

In the air conditioned Ballroom Back Room for July and August!

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.

Meeting ID: 871 5265 1884
Password: 145

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

Online - International Folk Dancing (Greenbelt) (28 Aug 2026)

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Hosted by Linda Mansdorf, John Robinson, Ben Hole, Carolyn Rapkievian & 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)

"Silver Spring" Contra Dance: Andrea Nettleton calling Paul Oorts & Tina Chancey (10 Sep 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Please note: this dance is at the Seekers Church in Takoma, DC, across from the Takoma Metro Station, rather than at the usual location in Silver Spring.

Caller: Andrea Nettleton

Band: Paul Oorts & Tina Chancey

Calling Terms: Larks and Robins

Lesson at 7:00 p.m., Dance is from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

COVID info: masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required. More info

Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Janine Smith and the Second Floor (13 Sep 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Sunday Afternoon Dancing Planet Contra Dance

Intro lesson at 2:30pm, dance from 3-6pm in the Ballroom Backroom at Glen Echo Park, MD.

Caller: Janine Smith

Band: The Second Floor (Abe Joyner-Meyers, Steven Bluestein, and Cecily Mills)

Admission: $15, 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/

2026 FSGW Getaway (02 Oct 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 19:00:00 GMT

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, and Kevin Elam. We are working on a few more.

Although the Getaway will not occur until the weekend of October 2 to October 5, 2026, it is helpful if you can register early. The deadline 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.

CONTRASTOCK 14, An all day dance event (03 Oct 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

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

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

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Anna Rain calling with Sugar Beat (08 Oct 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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

FSGW Picnic 2026 (11 Oct 2026)

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

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.

The Second Sunday Barn Dance will take place from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. This is a multi-generational dance, so all ages and ability levels are welcome to participate.

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.

Please note that this event is rain or shine, as all activities will be under cover in the Bumper Car Pavilion.

Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Beth Molaro and Laura & the Lava Lamps (25 Oct 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 18:30:00 GMT

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: Beth Molaro

Band: Laura and the Lava Lamps (Laura Legnick, Dave Wiesler, and Ralph Gordon)

Admission: $15, 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/

The Strayaways in Concert (Kevin Burke, Dylan Foley, and Eamon O'Leary) (30 Oct 2026)

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

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 ~

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Penelope Weinberger calling with Jonathan Vocke & Sarah Collins (12 Nov 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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.

Challenging Squares (21 Nov 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Will Mentor and Stomp Rocket take DC by storm for the second year in a row with a challenging Square Dance to tickle your brain and energize your feet!

Join us for Challenging Squares from 2:30-5:30pm on Saturday, November 21st. After a BYO dinner break, join us for Challenging Contras from 7:00-10:00pm. Please note you will need to register SEPARATELY for each event.

Will Mentor calls with music by Stomp Rocket (Bethany Waickman on guitar, Dave Langford on fiddle, and Glen Loper on mandolin and tenor banjo). What a lineup!

To have the most FUN at this afternoon of Challenging Squares, 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!

More info on Stomp Rocket here: https://www.stomprocketmusic.com/

Challenging Contras (21 Nov 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Will Mentor and Stomp Rocket take DC by storm for a second year in a row with a challenging Contra Dance to tickle your brain and energize your feet!

An evening of Challenging Contras from 7:00-10:00pm on Saturday, November 21st at Ballroom Blum in Adelphi, MD.

Come early for the Challenging Squares at 2:30pm and BYO dinner at 5:30pm!

Please note you will need to register SEPARATELY for each event.

Will Mentor calls with music by Stomp Rocket (Bethany Waickman on guitar, Dave Langford on fiddle, and Glen Loper on mandolin and tenor banjo). What a lineup!

To have the most FUN at this evening of Challenging Contras, 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!

More info on Stomp Rocket here: https://www.stomprocketmusic.com/

Dancing Planet Contra Dance with Will Mentor and Stomp Rocket (22 Nov 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

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: Stomp Rocket (Dave Langford, Bethany Waickman, and Glen Loper)

Admission: $15, 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/

Silver Spring Contra Dance: Melissa Chatham calling with Frog Hammer (10 Dec 2026)

Fri, 11 Dec 2026 00:00:00 GMT

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

Hashdance Weekend 2027 (26 Mar 2027)

Fri, 26 Mar 2027 04:00:00 GMT

Hashdance 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 Spanish Ballroom; workshops throughout Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo, MD

Callers: Lisa Greenleaf and Will Mentor

Bands: Red Case Band (Stuart Kinney, Max Newman, Clara Stickney, Alex summing, and Matt Kinney), Lighthouse (Audrey Jaber, Max Newman, and Stuart Kinney), 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

Save the Date: 41st Annual Washington Spring Ball (English Country Dance) (15 May 2027)

Sat, 15 May 2027 23:30:00 GMT

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 Terpsichoreare (Elke Baker, Liz Donaldson, and Ralph Gordon)

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. Dancers wear what makes them feel happy and festive; some choose attire from the 18th or 19th century.

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.