Discover Square Dancing

Square dancing involves four couples who start by facing each other as if positioned on the sides of a square. A caller leads the dancing in real time, sometimes with music and sometimes with rhythmic patter, guiding the dancers through a variety of movements.

Square dancing is welcoming to beginners and fun for longtime dancers alike, with every event offering a chance to connect, move, and share in the group experience.

Square dancing involves four couples who start by facing each other as if positioned on the sides of a square. A caller leads the dancing in real time, sometimes with music and sometimes with rhythmic patter, guiding the dancers through a variety of movements.

Square dancing is welcoming to beginners and fun for longtime dancers alike, with every event offering a chance to connect, move, and share in the group experience.

Blending influences from many cultures, square dancing has grown into a uniquely American tradition that has evolved for centuries, creating a tradition that is both distinctly American and still evolving today.

Origins in Folk Dance

Square dance traces its origins back to European folk dances of the 17th and 18th centuries. In countries like England, France, and Ireland, dances such as the quadrille, cotillion, and reel were popular. These dances typically involved intricate patterns performed by groups of four couples arranged in a square, hence the name "square dance."

When European settlers came to America, they brought their traditional dances with them. Over time, these dances blended with influences from other cultures, including African rhythms, Native American traditions, and Appalachian folk styles. The result was a vibrant and uniquely American form of dance.

The American Influence

In the early 19th century, square dancing became a staple of rural community life in America. It was a way for people to come together, celebrate, and socialize. Without formal dance instruction readily available, communities relied on a "caller" to guide dancers through the steps. Callers would use rhythmic chants or songs to direct the movements, ensuring everyone stayed in sync.

By the late 19th century, the rise of urbanization and new forms of entertainment such as ballroom dancing led to a decline in square dance's popularity. However, its spirit remained alive in rural areas, particularly in the South and Midwest, including Missouri.

Modern Square Dance Begins

Square dancing began with European folk dances such as the quadrille, cotillion, and reel. When settlers brought these traditions to America, they blended with African rhythms, Native American influences, and Appalachian styles, creating a uniquely American form of dance. Callers became central, guiding dancers with rhythmic directions that made the activity accessible to everyone.

Square Dancing in Missouri

In the 20th century, a revival helped standardize calls and spread the activity nationwide, aided by organizations such as Callerlab. Missouri embraced the tradition, and in 1995 the state designated Western-style square dance as its official American folk dance. St. Louis continues to host thriving clubs, lessons, and annual events that carry the spirit of community, celebration, and fun into the present day.

Origins in Folk Dance

Square dance traces its origins back to European folk dances of the 17th and 18th centuries. When European settlers came to America, they brought their traditional dances with them.

Over time, these dances blended with influences from other cultures, including African rhythms, Native American traditions, and Appalachian folk styles. The result was a vibrant and uniquely American form of dance.

The American Influence

In the early 19th century, square dancing became a staple of rural community life in America. Without formal dance instruction readily available, communities relied on a "caller" to guide dancers through the steps. 

By the late 19th century, the rise of urbanization and new forms of entertainment such as ballroom dancing led to a decline in square dance's popularity. 

Modern Square Dance Begins

The mid-20th century marked a revival of square dance, thanks in large part to Henry Ford, who sponsored square dance classes, published instruction manuals, and even hired teachers to spread the tradition across the country.

Around this time, the dance began to standardize, with a focus on uniform movements and calls. The formation of organizations such as Callerlab, the international association of square dance callers, helped develop a universal set of calls, making it easier for dancers from different areas to participate together.

Square Dancing in Missouri

Missouri has long been a hub for square dancing, with the state adopting the Western style of square dance as its official American folk dance in 1995. 

St. Louis continues to be a welcoming community for dancers of all ages and skill levels, with events including weekly dances at local clubs to annual events including the Spring Fling, Benefit Dance, and New Year’s Eve Dance. The region's dedication to square dance is reflected in our thriving clubs, lessons, and dances, all celebrating this rich cultural heritage.

Square dancing offers a unique blend of music, movement, and camaraderie. It brings people together in a fun, welcoming environment where every dance is a shared experience. With its lively rhythms and friendly atmosphere, square dancing invites everyone to join in and enjoy the moment. No experience required!

This thriving community ensures that square dancing remains a cherished part of local traditions, connecting people through rhythm, partnership, and joy.

If you’re curious about square dancing or looking to reconnect with this tradition, St. Louis is the perfect place to start. Local clubs offer lessons, practice opportunities, and events filled with music, rhythm, and camaraderie. Rooted in history yet full of life today, square dancing offers an unforgettable way to connect and share in the joy of dancing