Shared by Mary Jane Halsey, as Guest Blogger.

The official definition for a barn dance is: an informal social gathering for square dancing, originally held in a barn. The only way to understand this is to experience it, and what better place to experience it than at Grayson Highlands State Park.
 

The Fall Barn Dance at Grayson Highlands State Park is a great time for all ages

Did you know the barn dance originated in Scotland in the 1860’s? It was known as the "American Folk Dance." Barn dances were held to celebrate a variety of occasions, typically the raising of a new barn, a holiday, birthday or wedding.  Still referred to as a barn dance, we have transitioned from a barn to a local community center. While this type of dancing is not the new fad, it is a memorable tradition to us here in the Appalachian Mountains. Music and dance are fundamental parts of Appalachian culture, from banjo-pickin' to flat-footin'. Let's keep this tradition alive by bringing the community together and celebrating our local heritage.

All dancing styles are welcome so come show us what you've got

Get back to your roots; join us at shelter two in Grayson Highlands on Sunday, October 14 from 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. for a lively and entertaining barn dance. Music will be provided by the local favorite, the Whitetop Mountain Band. There will be a mix of contra, square and old-time flat-footin' - all dancing styles are welcome. No partner or experience required. Admission to the dance is free with payment of State Park daily parking fee, but donations will be accepted for the benefit of the band and Grayson Highlands State Park interpretive programming.

Join the fun and practice your skills, or learn new ones

A brief beginner workshop will be held prior to the dance to get the kinks worked out so the real fun can begin. All ages are welcome. Bring a lawn chair to enjoy the music during a break from dancing. We hope to see you there!