Square dances are one of the regular events at our restaurant in Mohnton, along with folk, bluegrass and gypsy jazz nights. If you have never been to one, here is what to expect.
How a Square Dance Works
A square dance is a group dance for sets of four couples. Each couple stands on one side of a square, facing the middle. A caller announces each move, or figure, in time with the music, and the dancers follow along. Because the caller tells everyone what comes next, nobody needs to memorize a routine ahead of time.
The music is usually fiddle tunes and old-time or bluegrass songs. Moves such as the do si do, the promenade and swinging your partner come up again and again through the night, so they become familiar quickly.
A Square Dance Night at Stampede
Our square dances have a live band and a caller. The dance takes place at the restaurant, so you can have dinner from the full barbecue menu, order an ale or cider from our wood-fired brewery, and dance as much or as little as you like. There is no cover charge for our music nights.
Tips for Your First Square Dance
- Wear comfortable shoes. Soles that slide a little on the floor make turns easier.
- Listen to the caller and watch the couples around you.
- Do not worry about mistakes. When a square gets mixed up, the dancers simply find their places and pick up with the next call.
- Arrive in time for dinner if you want to eat before the dancing starts.
Finding the Next Square Dance
New dates are posted on our events page and on our Instagram and Facebook pages. The restaurant is at 4372 Morgantown Road in Mohnton, about 20 minutes from Reading. See the Mohnton location page for hours and directions.