Hailey
The vibrant rhythms of square dancing will once again echo through the halls of Emporia, Kansas, as the Heart of America Singles Square Dance Association (HASSDA) brings its annual festival to town.
From August 8–9, 2025, square dancers from across the country will gather at the Emporia State University Memorial Union Ballroom to showcase their skills, connect with fellow dancers, and celebrate the joyful spirit of this cherished American tradition.
But the celebration doesn’t just start there. It kicks off a day earlier on Thursday, August 7, with a special Trail-End Dance at Sacred Heart Parish Hall, welcoming all dancers for an evening of movement and music.
A Festival That Draws Dancers From Coast to Coast
This year’s HASSDA Festival promises to be one of the most inclusive and well-attended yet. Participants are expected from nearly two dozen states, especially from the Heartland region including Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
What sets HASSDA apart is its openness—while the organization’s name emphasizes “Singles,” the event is attended by both solo dancers and couples. In fact, about one-third of the attendees are couples, while the majority are individuals who simply love to dance.
Whether you’re new to square dancing or have been moving to the beat for decades, this festival offers something for everyone.
Star-Studded Lineup of Callers and Cuers
The heart of any square dance is the caller—the person who calls out dance moves to guide the group. This year’s festival features some of the most respected names in the industry:
- Mike Bramlett
- Eric Henerlau
- Curt Braffet (also calling the Trail-End Dance)
And for those who enjoy round dancing, the cuers—those who provide vocal instructions for choreographed routines—are:
- Carolyn & Tony Ahart
- Betty Skillett (Trail-End Dance)
Their presence ensures a lively and professional atmosphere throughout the festival.
Festival Schedule and Pricing
The 2025 HASSDA Festival is both affordable and well-organized. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
| Date | Event | Location | Callers / Cuers | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 7, 2025 | Trail-End Dance | Sacred Heart Parish Hall, Emporia, KS | Curt Braffet (caller), Betty Skillett (cuer) | $8 donation at door |
| August 8–9 | Main Festival Events | ESU Memorial Union Ballroom, Emporia, KS | Bramlett, Henerlau, Braffet, Aharts (cuers) | $40 (both days) $30 (single day) |
Whether you’re joining for a single day or the whole weekend, the pricing is welcoming, and spectators may attend for free, making it easy for family and friends to watch and enjoy the festivities.
More Than Just Dancing – It’s a Community
The HASSDA Festival is about more than just mastering the right moves—it’s about connection, joy, and community. Dancers often comment on the welcoming environment, where strangers quickly become friends through the universal language of dance.
Workshops and mixed squares allow newcomers and veterans alike to share experiences and develop their square dance skills. There’s also plenty of room for socializing, laughing, and enjoying the rhythm of the music.
What Makes HASSDA Unique?
- Focus on Singles: While everyone is welcome, HASSDA creates an especially friendly environment for solo dancers.
- Affordable and Inclusive: With low entry fees and free entry for spectators, the event stays accessible.
- National Appeal: Dancers travel from across the country to participate, creating a rich diversity of styles and personalities.
Keywords for This Event
To boost SEO and visibility, the following keywords are essential:
- HASSDA Festival 2025
- Emporia square dancing event
- Trail-End Dance Emporia
- Curt Braffet square dance caller
- Heart of America Singles Square Dance Association
- square dance in Kansas
- round dance cuers Carolyn & Tony Ahart
The HASSDA Festival 2025 is more than a dance gathering—it’s a celebration of community, movement, and tradition. Held in Emporia, Kansas, this festival brings together dancers of all backgrounds, highlighting the rich culture and joyful spirit of American square dance.
Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, meet fellow dancers, or simply enjoy a high-energy event, the Emporia square dance weekend offers it all.
With expert callers, talented cuers, and a welcoming crowd, this event is shaping up to be one of the must-attend square dance festivals of the year.
Don’t miss your chance to join the fun and step into the rhythm of square dancing in Emporia this August!