Square Dancing

CA pre-War tradition from mainly rural western and midwestern communities, square dancing offered an opportunity for people to gather socially and have fun in a morally acceptable way. Enthusiasts across the country still converge on the halls of local Elks and Shriners clubs for wholesome, raucous partner-swapping to the galloping beat of crack country/folk outfits. The music is primarily functional, an often up-tempo combination of Waltz, Traditional Country and Western Swing, with an emcee of sorts calling out directions to the dancers. Expect to hear down-home traditionals, early American reels, and lots of mysterious phrases such as "do-se-do."