Welcome to the best source for information about dancing opportunities in Santa Cruz, California, especially partner dancing in the tradition of contra - also called Traditional New England Folk Dancing - and English Country. This site is sponsored by the Traditional Dancers of Santa Cruz.

Share the cost of gas! Reduce your personal carbon footprint! Engage in extended conversations with other dancers! Sign up today with the new ride sharing e-list for both dancers in the Santa Cruz who want to attend dances far away and for dancers far away who want to attend dances in Santa Cruz but who don't necessarily want to drive alone. To subscribe, send a blank e-message to To sign up for twice-monthly dance announcements, send a blank e-message to It is not too late to sign up for a 2008 TDSC membership! For only $20 you get a copy of the member roster, with the names and contact information of other members, you get a member card which gives you a discount on the admission fee at dances in Santa Cruz, Felton and Monterey and most of all it gives you the peace of mind that you have helped to insure the fiscal solvency of the organization which has helped create these fun yet easy dances for the past 26 years. To join, just print and complete a member form, write a check to TDSC and mail it in! Click for Announcement Archive Please note that many dancers are very sensitive to fragrances and body odor and that dances are fragrance-free events. Dancers are strongly encouraged to shower before each dance event, to wear freshly laundered clothing and to refrain from using any scented products such as perfumes, colognes and scented after-shave liquids or lotions for reasons of both preference and health. Allergic reactions include headaches, sneezing, scratchy throats, watery eyes and a few other symptoms which can ruin the dance experience. Thanks for your consideration! To learn more about what contra dance is, click on the articles and resources links. There is a Beginner's Introductory Workshop 20 minutes before each scheduled evening of dance for those who have never before experienced traditional partner dancing. Also, the moves for each set or form are explained and practiced before each individual dance, and dancers are supported by the callers´ prompting during the dances. Everyone is welcome, especially beginners! Regular contra dance admission is $10, $9 Members and $6 for full-time students with a valid student ID card.