Hailey
The HASSDA Square Dance Festival is one of the most exciting events for square dance enthusiasts across the United States.
Held annually, this festival brings together dancers from all over the region to showcase their skills, meet new people, and enjoy the fun and rhythm of square dancing.
This year, the festival took place in Emporia, Kansas, with various dance styles filling the Colonial Ballroom and Webb Hall at Emporia State University. Dancers came from nearby states such as Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, and even as far as Texas.
What is the HASSDA Square Dance Festival?
The HASSDA Square Dance Festival is a special gathering organized by the Heart of America Square Dance Association (HASSDA).
It celebrates the traditional square dance culture and offers an opportunity for dancers of all ages to come together and share their love for the dance form. Over the weekend, hundreds of dancers gathered to participate in the festival, which was filled with music, rhythm, and energy.
Why Do People Attend?
The event attracts people for several reasons. For experienced dancers, it is a chance to demonstrate their expertise and try new styles of dancing. For beginners, it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn and meet others who are passionate about dancing.
The variety of styles featured at the festival makes it a highly anticipated event for those interested in different forms of square dancing. The festival creates a warm and welcoming environment for people to connect with others who share similar interests.
Highlights of the Festival
The festival took place in two of Emporia State University’s largest halls: the Colonial Ballroom and Webb Hall. These venues were perfect for hosting the large groups of dancers who came from all over the region.
The halls were buzzing with excitement, filled with music, laughter, and the clapping of shoes on the floor as participants showed off their skills.
One of the most exciting parts of the festival was the wide variety of square dance styles that were showcased. There were traditional square dances, as well as modern versions of the dance, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether it was the fast-paced circular steps or the smoother traditional formations, each performance was an incredible display of rhythm and teamwork.
Dancers from Multiple States
What makes the HASSDA Square Dance Festival unique is its wide participation from dancers across multiple states. Members of HASSDA came from Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas, bringing with them diverse dance traditions and unique performances.
The event fosters a spirit of community and camaraderie among dancers, allowing them to exchange experiences and learn from one another.
One couple attending the festival even came from as far as Texas, proving how far-reaching the festival’s influence has become. For many, the festival represents an opportunity to see familiar faces, meet new friends, and celebrate their shared love for square dancing.
A Fun Social Experience
The HASSDA Square Dance Festival isn’t just about dancing. It also serves as a social event where friends and family can gather and enjoy each other’s company.
For newcomers to the square dance scene, it provides an opportunity to meet others who share the same passion, while more experienced dancers get to catch up with old friends.
Dancing together in large groups encourages teamwork, coordination, and communication between dancers. Each step must be synchronized, and this fosters a sense of community and shared achievement.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or someone just starting out, there’s a spot for you at this incredible festival.
A Festival for All Ages
The HASSDA Square Dance Festival is open to all ages, making it a great family-friendly event. Kids, teens, adults, and seniors all take part in the dancing, enjoying different levels of skill and engagement.
Some attendees come just to watch the incredible performances, while others are ready to jump into the action themselves. The event offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, making it an inclusive and welcoming experience for all.
The Benefits of Square Dancing
Square dancing has many physical and social benefits. Not only does it keep participants physically active, but it also promotes mental agility and quick thinking.
Dancing in formations helps boost coordination, while the constant switching of partners enhances social interaction and communication skills. Most importantly, square dancing creates lasting memories and friendships, making it much more than just a fun activity.
The HASSDA Square Dance Festival in Emporia was a great success, bringing together dancers from different states and backgrounds to share their love of square dancing.
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, the festival offers an amazing opportunity to learn, share, and connect. It’s a perfect example of how traditional arts can bring people together to form lasting bonds and memories.
For those who love square dancing or want to try it out, the HASSDA Square Dance Festival is a must-attend event. It’s a fun, energetic, and welcoming celebration of dance that highlights the best aspects of teamwork, tradition, and community.