Downtown Amherst Contra Dance will hold a contra dance on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Pacific Lodge Hall, 99 Main Street in Amherst, Massachusetts. A beginner-friendly introduction lesson will start at 7:00 pm, followed by the dance from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm with a short break in the middle. The dance will be called by Andrew Stout, with music by The Star Charters featuring Cecilia Vacanti on fiddle, Mark Price on guitar, and Jess Newman on fiddle. The event is open to the public, including students, first-time dancers, and community members, and is structured to welcome people new to contra dancing. COVID precautions will be in place, including required N95 or equivalent masks, open windows, and box fans for ventilation.
Admission is $15–$20 for the general public and $10–$15 for students, with a limited number of free admissions available for Five College students who arrive early and ask at the door. Admission is free for volunteers who arrange in advance and for first-time dancers who attend the 7:00 pm introduction lesson. Organizers note that no one will be turned away for lack of funds and that assistance is available through the Dancing for All Fund.
For volunteer opportunities, email volunteer[at]amherstcontra.org. For general information, visit amherstcontra.org or ask at the door on the night of the event.
