Area Terminology and Practice

This Page Area Terminology Area Practices US and Canadian Differences

Other Pages Activities, Awards, Demos, etc. Bylaws and Standard Operating Procedures Publications Banner Guidelines

Area Terminology

• Workshops - see US and Canadian Differences below.
• Club Night - see US and Canadian Differences below.
• Class Night - see US and Canadian Differences below.
• Specials - see US and Canadian Differences below.
• Old-timers - used region-wide to refer to experienced dancers, as opposed to those currently taking lessons. A 10-year-old can be an old-timer.
• Banner Raid - Clubs maintain a small banner, or flag, that visiting clubs can earn by showing up with 12 or more dancers. These banners can be later retrieved by the owning club. US and Canadian practices differ on this - see US and Canadian Differences below.

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Area Practices

Dance Times

Dances are assumed to be from 8:00 to 11:00pm. Those held at other times are noted on the club's home page or in our calendar.

Dance Halls

The usual locations for a club's Dances, Workshops, etc, are shown on the club's home page. Note that locations may occasionally be changed. If you are unfamiliar with the club you are visiting, we suggest you call ahead to the Club Contact before traveling.

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US and Canadian Differences

US and Canadian clubs generally differ in what they call their various functions and may differ in proper dress, etc.

Clubs in our area of the US usually hold dances at least once a month on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Square Dance dress is requested, refreshments are usually served, and Banner Raids are always welcome.

Most US area clubs also hold Workshops, usually every week, and usually on a weeknight. Dress is usually casual, there are usually no refreshments. Many clubs alternate teaching tips for new dancers and old-timers. Guests are welcome. Since Workshops are sometimes irregular, or location may change, we recommend that you call ahead before visiting.

Canadian clubs usually hold 2 to 4 Specials a year, usually on a Saturday. Square Dance dress is requested, and refreshments are served. Banner Raids are not usually allowed, although banners may be retrieved.

Canadian clubs also hold Club Night, usually every week, and usually on a weeknight. Square Dance dress is usually requested, refreshments are often served. Banner Raids require advance notice, since many clubs have only 2 banners, which may not be available. Some teaching, often at various levels, usually takes place. Since Club Nights are sometimes irregular, or location may change, we recommend that you call ahead before visiting.

Canadian clubs may also hold Class Night, for teaching new dancers, usually every week on a weeknight. This may or may not be combined with Club Night. Since Class Nights are sometimes irregular, or location may change, we recommend that you call ahead before visiting.

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