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FREE ANNIVERSARY CONTRA DANCE! Ben Jackson & Jeff Spero, with Susan Petrick!

Photo of Laura Frank
Hosted By
Laura F.
FREE ANNIVERSARY CONTRA DANCE! Ben Jackson & Jeff Spero, with Susan Petrick!

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FREE SPONSORED ANNIVERSARY DANCE!!
Music by Ben Jackson & Jeff Spero, with Susan Petrick calling!

You remember Ben Jackson's fiery fiddle from Forgery, and you probably know Jeff Spero from The Syncopaths. This first-ever meeting of these musical titans is going to be epic! The amazing Susan Petrick returns to call this unforgettable afternoon! This dance is FREE for everyone, in celebration of the 5th wedding anniversary of Laura Arnow & Matthew Englund! (Enjoy cake with us at the break :)

Sunday Afternoon Schedule:
3:30pm Doors open
​3:40pm Learn How to Contra Dance
4-7pm Dance!
~5:30pm Potluck Snacks on the Porch :-)

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Live music and livelier dancing since 1999! We host public contra dances on 1st Sundays & 3rd Saturdays in Monterey, CA.
Beginners are always welcome!

Each evening features a different live band and dance caller, so be sure to check out our website to see who is playing this month: www.montereycontradance.org

Saturday Schedule: Lesson at 6:40, Dance starts at 7pm
Sunday Schedule: Lesson at 3:40, Dance starts at 4pm

Beginners are always welcome!
Calling will be Larks & Robins.
Vaccinations & masks recommended.

Location:
Monterey YMCA
600 Camino El Estero, Monterey, CA 93940

PRICES (Sliding Scale):
This one is FREE for all! Bring your friends!

See our website for the most up to date information:
www.montereycontradance.org

Please note our updated COVID policies:
-COVID vaccinations and masks are encouraged, but not required.
-Masks will be available at the door for those who need them.
-PLEASE stay home if you are feeling sick.

But what is a Contra Dance?
Contra is a form of community folk dance made up of long lines of couples dancing in sequence. A contra dancer gets to dance with their partner and everyone else in their line! Each individual dance is taught and called by a 'caller' with music provided by a live band.
Still confused? Check out our website or facebook page, look it up on youtube, or just show up at one of our events!

Worried about being new?
Don't be. Prior experience is not expected! Before each evening begins, the night's caller offers a lesson for beginners or anyone looking for a refresher. In addition, contra is a walking dance, so no fancy footwork is required. Contra tradition is to change partners at the end of each dance, so bring your friends and get ready for a great time! The dance is open to all ages, newcomers are always welcome, and it is not necessary to bring a partner with you to the dance.

What should I bring?
No particular style of clothing is worn, though as the dancing is energetic, lightweight attire and low-heeled dance shoes with non-marking soft soles are considered more comfortable. Don't forget your reusable water bottle!

See you on the dance floor!

Photo of Contra dancing in Monterey! group
Contra dancing in Monterey!
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Every 1st Sunday of the month until August 2, 2025

YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula
600 Camino El Estero · Monterey, CA
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FREE