Contra Dance in Minneapolis | Tapestry Folkdance Center

Experience the joy of Contra Dance. A high energy, community driven social dance where dancers move in long lines through fun, repeating patterns, guided by a caller and lifted by live music. No partner or experience is needed, just bring your enthusiasm and step onto the floor.

UPCOMING EXPERIENCES

Contra Dance Every Saturday

Studio

LARGE STUDIO

7:30-8pm | Lesson

8-11pm | Dance

$15 General Admission. $12 Tapestry Member $8 Young Adult (Ages 18-30) $5 Young (Adult Member) $4 Youth (Ages 10-17) Under 10 - Free

Cost

First seven days of every month (1st through the 7th) - Newcomers and beginners especially welcome!

Pay What You Choose

TECHNO CONTRA

Last Monday of the Month

SMALL STUDIO

8-10:30pm

Cost: 

$12 General Admission $9 Tapestry Member $8 Young Adult (Ages 18-30) $4 Youth (Ages 10-17) Under 10 - Free

Upcoming Dances

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Experience the joy of movement, music, and community at Tapestry’s weekly contra dance! Rooted in centuries-old English, Scottish, and French dances and strongly influenced by African-American traditions, contra dance is a high-energy, easy-to-learn American folk dance done in long lines of partners moving to live music. Each evening begins with a friendly 30-minute beginner lesson—no partner or experience needed! A caller teaches and guides you through each dance, with steps and figures that keep you connected, moving, and smiling all night.

  • Comfortable, lightweight clothing and soft-soled, non-marking shoes are recommended. Whether you're brand new or a seasoned dancer, you're warmly welcome—just bring your curiosity, your energy, and your dancing feet!

  • Featuring live bands that reflect a range of music traditions from Old Time to Irish to modern compositions, every dance is a vibrant celebration of rhythm, community, and joy. Come solo, with friends, or as a couple—everyone is encouraged to join in the fun!

  • If you have any accessibility needs you'd like addressed by Tapestry Folkdance Center, please let us know by emailing staff@tapestryfolkdance.org.

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

  • Guest Caller: Ted Hodapp
    Band:  Tunebuggy
    Members: Mattie Rynkiewicz, Maura Goodin, Xander Nielsen, Mia Burgstedt

  • Guest Caller: Mattie Rynkiewicz
    Band:  Techno Contra, DJ Mattie Rynkiewicz

  • Guest Caller: Don Gatheridge
    Band:  Flour City Doughboys
    Members: Pat O’Loughlin, Doug Lohman, Danny Hansen, Art Bjorngjeld,

  • Guest Caller: David Kirchner
    Band:  Bob Walser New Trio

  • Guest Caller: Tommy Van Deusen
    Band:  Good Question

    Members: Mattie Rynkiewicz, Dan Newton, Pamela Longtine

  • Guest Caller: Lisa Leedham
    Band:  Compass Rose String Band

    Members: Ken Steffenson, Anne Benson, Erin Walsh, Joel Peterson

  • Guest Caller: Beau Farmer
    Band: Switchboard

    Members: Ken Steffenson, Xander Nielsen, Maura Gooden, David Edminster

  • Guest Caller: Ted Hodapp
    Band: Techno Contra, DJ Bob Walser

  • Guest Caller: Robin Nelson
    Band: Northern Aire,

    Members : Bob Walser, Pat O’Loughlin,Tim Reese