Swing into the holiday season

Dec. 9 Swing Dance Social brings dancing and holiday cheer

The holiday season will be in full swing (pun intended) when Moabites and the surrounding community come together to learn to swing dance—and you’re invited.

The Moab Swing Dance community’s annual Holiday Swing Dance Social will take place on Saturday, Dec. 9. There will be a beginner lesson at 7 p.m. followed by social dancing from 8 to 10 p.m., with holiday-themed music (think Louis Armstrong’s Christmas album). According to event organizer Katie Grauel, it will be a festive time full of joy.

“No experience or partner is necessary,” Grauel said. “The whole point of swing dance is that it’s a social dance: You can ask different people to dance, and meet people and socialize.”

The swing dance club was started in 2016 at the now-closed Rio Bar by Kira Withrow, a fellow dancer Grauel knew from Denver. It was moved to the Moab Arts and Recreation Center in 2017 to be more inclusive to people under 21, and for people who want a different atmosphere.

Grauel started teaching lessons before the dance sessions to build swing dance skills in the community. Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., curious community members can come by the MARC for a lesson.

“Just showing up and participating may push their comfort zone, and may be something people have never thought they’d try,” Grauel said. It’s this spirit of community that keeps Grauel organizing events and teaching the class every week.

Another special element of the swing dancing community is that it’s cross-generational, providing opportunities for people of very different ages to mingle. “We have people from ages 20 to 80,” Grauel said.

This seasonal social dance happens at a time when the bitter atmosphere outside begs us to gather for sweet times together.

“When it’s dark out, doing something active is hard. Having an activity that is social, active, musical, festive, and lively is a great way to bring in the holiday season,” Grauel said.

Even if you are self-conscious about your dancing skills, “come anyways,” she said. “If you can walk, you can dance!”

Festive attire is encouraged at the Holiday Dance. “Whether a reindeer onesie or a sparkly dress, either are great,” Grauel said.

The suggested donation is $10.