What we’re about
So you think you can't dance? Think again!
Monterey Country Dance Community (MCDC) brings people together through the joyful, community-rooted tradition of contra dancing. At our twice-monthly events, people of all ages—from kids to elders—join hands to move to live music in a welcoming, low-pressure environment.
No partner or experience is needed; each evening starts with a beginner's lesson. Contra is easy to learn, energizing, and deeply social—fostering real connection in an often disconnected world. Smiling is practically guaranteed! Our community includes families, longtime dancers, and curious newcomers who return for the music, the movement, and the warmth of shared experience.
We also host themed dances, potlucks, workshops, house concerts, outreach dances, a monthly Old Time music jam, and open band dances where any musician can join in. This is more than a dance—it's a place where joy is collective, generations connect, and everyone belongs. If you're having fun, you're doing it right!
Please note our updated COVID policies, which are in force for every in-person event put on by the Monterey Country Dance Community:
- Although recommended, we no longer require vaccination.
- Also, masks are recommended, but no longer required.
- If you are not feeling well, please don't come to the dance.
More information at: montereycontradance.org
Upcoming events
5
Annual Newcomer's Contra Dance!
YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula, 600 Camino El Estero, Monterey, CA, USFebruary 7th- Special NEWCOMERS Dance, FREE for all MCDC Members!
Music by Persons in Black, with Tanya Merchant calling!
Never tried contra dancing? We're hosting a dance especially for beginner contra dancers! Sharpen your skills to great music & calling, and share the joy of contra dancing with friends new and old! This event is FREE for all MCDC members!
Saturday Night Schedule:
6:30pm Doors open
6:40pm Learn How to Contra Dance
7-10pm Dance!
~8:30pm Potluck Snacks on the Porch :)
***
Live music and livelier dancing since 1999! We host public contra dances twice a month 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!
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):
$15-$30, General Admission
FREE for MCDC Members!
$5 active military & full-time students;
FREE! for children 12 & under
Pay what you can - NO ONE TURNED AWAY FOR LACK OF FUNDS!
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!2 attendees
Saturday Community Contra Dance in Monterey!
YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula, 600 Camino El Estero, Monterey, CA, USSaturday Evening Schedule:
6:30pm Doors open
6:40pm Learn How to Contra Dance
7-10pm Dance!
~8:30pm Potluck Snacks on the Porch
***
Live music and livelier dancing since 1999! We host public contra dances twice a month 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!
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):
$15-$30, General Admission
$10-$25 Members of MCDC, BACDS, CDSS or other sister organizations;
$5 active military & full-time students, with ID;
FREE! for children 12 & under
No one turned away for lack of funds!
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!2 attendees
Sunday Afternoon Contra Dance in Monterey - Special Location!
Monterey JACL Building (Japanese American Citizens League), 424 Adams St., Monterey, CA, USSunday Afternoon Schedule:
3:30pm Doors open
3:40pm Learn How to Contra Dance
4-7pm Dance!
~5:30pm Potluck Snacks on the Porch :-)
***
Live music and livelier dancing since 1999! We host public contra dances on twice a month 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!
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.
SPECIAL LOCATION:
Japanese American Citizen League Hall in Monterey
424 Adams St, Monterey, CA 93940
PRICES (Sliding Scale):
$15-$30, General Admission
$10-$25 Members of MCDC, BACDS, CDSS or other sister organizations;
$5 active military & full-time students, with ID;
FREE! for children 12 & under
No one turned away for lack of funds!
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!2 attendeesFREE - Saturday Contra Dance in Monterey!
YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula, 600 Camino El Estero, Monterey, CA, USSaturday Evening Schedule:
6:30pm Doors open
6:40pm Learn How to Contra Dance
7-10pm Dance!
~8:30pm Potluck Snacks on the Porch
***
Live music and livelier dancing since 1999! We host public contra dances twice a month 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!
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):
FREE! This dance is generously sponsored by one of our regular dancers.
Bring a friend and check it out!
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!2 attendees
Past events
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