Bronwyn Chelette and Jenny & The Straydogs
2026-06-20 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
June 20: Bronwyn Chelette calls to Jenny & The Straydogs

Bronwyn Chelette of Tallahassee, Florida brings energy, clarity, and musicality to every evening of contra dancing. A skilled caller with a welcoming presence, she combines crisp teaching with an infectious enthusiasm that helps new dancers feel comfortable while giving experienced dancers the flow and momentum they love. Her walk-throughs are efficient and easy to follow, allowing the dance floor to come alive quickly with confidence, laughter, and connection.
Known throughout the Southeast contra dance community for her engaging repertoire and warm rapport with dancers and musicians alike, Bronwyn creates programs that are both accessible and satisfying. Whether guiding first-time participants through their very first contra or challenging seasoned dancers with elegant choreography, she fosters an atmosphere of inclusion, community, and joy. When Bronwyn takes the microphone, dancers can expect an evening of lively movement, spirited music, and memorable shared experience.
Jenny & the Stray Dogs are:

Ron Gilbert –guitar
Clay Black –banjo
Jenny James –fiddle

Admission

Adults

3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Fourth of July Weekend at The Dancing Fish
2026-07-03 18:00 - 2026-07-05 15:00
Fourth of July Weekend
at The Dancing Fish
July 3-5, 2026
Featuring:
Two callers: Janet Shepherd & Dwayne Johnson
Two bands: Kingfisher and Full Tilt

Caller Janet Shepherd is returning by popular demand.

Kingfisher is Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman.

Full Tilt is:

Debby Knight on keyboard;
Len Bittenson on viola/fiddle/recorder; and
Carol Bittenson on fiddle.

Callers:

Janet Shepherd is a veteran of over 30 years, calling primarily contras and squares.
Dwayne Johnson is a veteran contra dance caller based in Kentucky who has been calling for over 20 years.

Dance Sessions:

Friday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 12-4 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Sunday 11-3 pm Contra Dances

Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible, (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Make Your Donation Here:

Monthly First Weekend Donations

Payment OptionsYOU decideAdult - Single DanceAdults (2) - Single DanceAdult - Weekend PassAdults (2) - Weekend PassYouth - Single DanceYouth - Weekend PassYouth (2) - Weekend Pass
Camping
Campers are welcome, but be sure to contact Dancing Fish property manager Pat Ward first before coming. Text him at (703) 509-3820 or write to patward562@gmail.com.
Potluck Dinner
Potluck Dinner has been added to the schedule between Saturday dances! Food, fun and fellowship. It might be raining, but the tables are covered at the barn. And the grill is covered. Show up early and bring a dish. Let’s try to start arriving and cooking at 3:30, serving starts at 4:30. Please bring something to share with your friends: food and tales of romance and adventures.

Suggestions:

Cheese/crackers
Main dish (cooked or to be grilled)
Vegetables (cooked or to be grilled)
Salads
Desserts

We will provide plates, service, large grills, coffee, napkins. There is a refrigerator in the barn when needed.

Join in the 4th of July potluck party. We are socially interesting people. Let’s be nice to one another: Share food and stories with each other before the 6 o’clock dance!

John Rogers & ContraFusion
2026-07-18 18:00 - 21:00
John Rogers & ContraFusion

ContraFusion is:

Darren Burgess – Guitar
Diane Schulbach- Piano
Roger Reep- Saxophone
Andrew Driscoll – Violin

Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Labor Day Weekend Blast at The Dancing Fish
2026-09-04 18:00 - 2026-09-06 15:00
Labor Day Weekend Blast at The Dancing Fish
September 4-6, 2026
Featuring:
Two callers: Kenny Greer and Jeremy Peterson
Two bands: Potent Brew and ContraGrass
Steve Kemble and George Paul of Potent Brew

Caller Kenny Greer will be joined by caller Jeremy Peterson.
Schedule:

Friday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 12-4 pm Contra Dances
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-10 pm Contra Dances
Sunday 11-3 pm Contra Dances

Potluck Dinner Saturday afternoon

All are welcome at our potluck dinner Saturday between dances. We gather about 4:30. We will have plenty of salmon coming off the grill about 5 pm. Y’all have been bringing great food to share for all diets. Crockpots are welcome too. RSVP for a headcount sukimsu@gmail.com or text 386-299-3731. Thank you!
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Andy Kane & Bunny Bread
2026-09-19 18:00 - 21:00
Andy Kane & Bunny Bread

Bunny Bread is:

Carrie Hamby – piano and/or accordion, percussion
Aidan Collins – fiddle
Ben Green – fiddle
Erice Shepard – guitar
Neil Jones – bass
Howard Pardue – banjo, tit-fer, Cajun for triangle. Pronounced Tee-fair
Kirill Litvak – accordion
Liz Sparks – rub board

Contra dance caller Andy Kane
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Luke Donforth calling
2026-10-02 19:00 - 2026-10-03 21:00
Luke Donforth calling

Luke Donforth is a contra caller and choreographer based in Burlington, VT. He brings a warmth to the mic and focuses on facilitating everyone in the hall joyously moving to the music. He’s a founding member of the Mad Robin Callers Collective, and calls everything from family dances to festivals. Luke is a prolific writer of dances, and you can expect new and classic compositions to keep your feet flying.
Band: To Be Announced
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

Potluck Dinner Saturday afternoon

All are welcome at our potluck dinner Saturday between dances. We gather about 4:30. We will have plenty of salmon coming off the grill about 5 pm. Y’all have been bringing great food to share for all diets. Crockpots are welcome too.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Rachel Flemming & The Mclntyre Band
2026-10-17 18:00 - 21:00
Rachel Flemming & The Mclntyre Band
Florida contra dance caller Rachel Flemming brings a warm, clear, and inviting presence to the dance floor, helping dancers of all experience levels feel confident, connected, and ready to move. Known for her friendly teaching style and smooth walkthroughs, Rachel creates an atmosphere where newcomers are welcomed, experienced dancers are engaged, and the whole hall can share in the lift and joy of contra dancing. Her calling supports the music, the dancers, and the community spirit that makes every evening on the floor memorable.
The McIntyre Band is:

Sharon Hartmann: fiddle, vocals
Lisa McIntyre: guitar, bouzouki, lead vocals
George Houston: percussion
Terry Henson: upright bass

Admission

Adults

3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Halloween Weekend with Terry Doyle & Toss the Possum
2026-10-30 19:00 - 2026-10-31 21:00
Halloween Weekend with Terry Doyle & Toss the Possum
Terry Doyle, contra dance caller
Contra dance caller Terry Doyle brings a lively, generous spirit to the hall, combining clear instruction with the good timing and humor that help dancers relax, connect, and enjoy the music. Her calling is welcoming to newcomers without slowing the energy of the evening, and experienced dancers appreciate the smooth flow she brings to each dance. Whether guiding a full floor through the basics or shaping the momentum of a high-energy set, Terry helps create the friendly, community-centered atmosphere that makes contra dancing such a pleasure.

Toss the Possum is:

Rob Zisette: Fiddle, percussion, and vocals
Laura Zisette: Keyboard

Toss the Possum brings the drive, warmth, and good humor that make a contra dance floor come alive. Based in Blacksburg, Virginia, and playing contra dances since 2004, this family-rooted band blends fiddle, keyboard, rhythm, and danceable traditional energy into music that is lively, grounded, and easy to move to. Their repertoire supports the full sweep of an evening, from buoyant contra sets to waltzes and other social dance favorites, giving dancers the lift they need while keeping the room relaxed, connected, and smiling.
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

Potluck Dinner Saturday afternoon

All are welcome at our potluck dinner Saturday between dances. We gather about 4:30. We will have plenty of salmon coming off the grill about 5 pm. Y’all have been bringing great food to share for all diets. Crockpots are welcome too.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Steve Zakon-Anderson & The Dam Beavers
2026-11-06 19:00 - 2026-11-07 21:00
Steve Zakon-Anderson & The Dam Beavers
Steve Zakon-Anderson
Steve Zakon-Anderson is one of the country’s most respected contra dance callers, known for his clear teaching, relaxed humor, and deep command of the dance floor. Calling since the early 1980s, he brings decades of experience to every event, helping newcomers feel welcome while giving experienced dancers the smooth flow, timing, and lift that make contra dancing a pleasure.

The Dam Beavers are a vibrant trio who play lively music for the American folk dance community. Their energetic sound is a fixture at contra dance events and folk festivals across North America.
The Dam Beavers are:

Ben Schreiber on fiddle
Scotty Leach on keyboard
Ness Smith-Savedoff on drums and percussion

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

Potluck Dinner Saturday afternoon

All are welcome at our potluck dinner Saturday between dances. We gather about 4:30. We will have plenty of salmon coming off the grill about 5 pm. Y’all have been bringing great food to share for all diets. Crockpots are welcome too.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Kevin Shepherd and Walk Old Shoe
2026-11-21 18:00 - 21:00
Kevin Shepherd and Walk Old Shoe

Florida contra dance caller Kevin Shepherd brings an easygoing confidence and clear sense of timing to the dance floor, making his dances welcoming for newcomers while still satisfying for experienced dancers. A member of the Shepherd Family Band, Kevin comes to calling with a musician’s ear and a dancer’s feel for flow, phrasing, and community spirit. He has called for contra dances across Florida, including events in Gainesville, The Villages, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee, where he has been recognized as a rising caller. Whether guiding a first-time dancer through the basics or keeping a lively hall moving smoothly with live music, Kevin helps create the kind of relaxed, good-humored evening that keeps contra dancers coming back.
Walk Old Shoe is:

Greg Allen, fiddle and guitar
Bob Murphy, fiddle and guitar
Seamus Murphy, fiddle
Matthew Sabatella, banjo

Admission

Adults

3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Bob Isaacs and Frenzy
2026-12-04 18:00 - 2026-12-05 21:00
Bob Isaacs and Frenzy
Bob Isaacs calls contra dances at The Dancing Fish.
Bob Isaacs is a legendary contra dance caller and choreographer, celebrated for clear, concise teaching, flowing contras, inventive choreography, and his exhilarating grid squares. Based in Princeton, New Jersey, he has shaped the modern contra repertoire with creative dances called across the country, while bringing calm authority, wit, and musical precision to the microphone. Dancers value Bob for the rare combination of technical brilliance and welcoming ease that makes even sophisticated dances feel natural, social, and fun.

Frenzy is:

Eden MacAdam-Somer on fiddle;
Sam Bartlett on guitar; and
Pokey on percussion

Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 12-3 pm Contra Dance
Saturday 4:30 pm Potluck Dinner
Saturday 6-9 pm Contra Dance

Potluck Dinner Saturday afternoon

All are welcome at our potluck dinner Saturday between dances. We gather about 4:30. We will have plenty of salmon coming off the grill about 5 pm. Y’all have been bringing great food to share for all diets. Crockpots are welcome too.
Admission

Adults

1st weekends: $20-30 per dance session or $40-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $10-15 per dance session or $20-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Vicki Morrison and In Cahoots
2026-12-19 18:00 - 21:00
Vicki Morrison and In Cahoots

Vicki Morrison of Tallahassee is a beloved contra dance caller whose warmth, clarity, and deep love for the tradition shine through every dance she leads. Known for her thoughtful programing and inclusive style, Vicki fosters a welcoming atmosphere that encourages both new and experienced dancers to connect with the joy of the music and movement.

In Cahoots is a fixture in the Tallahassee contra dance scene, playing regularly at the Tally Contra Dance.

In Cahoots is:

Andrea Stanley
Steve Hodges
Laura Gayle Green

Admission:

Adults

3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

3rd Saturdays: $5-10

Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult

Admission: Donate Here using PayPal, Debit or Credit Card

Mary Wesley & Stomp Rocket
2027-01-01 19:00 - 2027-01-02 21:00
Mary Wesley & Stomp Rocket
Mary Wesley brings a bright, welcoming presence to the contra dance floor, combining clear teaching with the easy enthusiasm of someone deeply rooted in traditional dance. A Vermont caller, dance leader, and organizer, she calls contras, squares, morris, family dances, and community dances, carrying forward a tradition that runs through her own family. Dancers appreciate her friendly style, musical sense, and ability to make a hall feel open, lively, and connected from the first walkthrough to the final swing.

Wild Asparagus Weekend 2027
2027-04-23 19:00
Wild Asparagus Weekend
April 23-25, 2027

George Marshall calling to music by Wild Asparagus

Wild Asparagus Weekend at the Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, April 23-25th 2027 Contra dance to one of New England’s finest bands, Wild Asparagus, at the refurbished Dancing Fish, on Lake Santa Fe in Melrose, Florida (18 miles east of Gainesville). The wonders of Wild Asparagus never cease. Together for thirty years, their music has matured like a fine wine. This powerful ensemble brings a unique sound and dynamic energy to contra dancing weaving a spell that you wish would never end. Their creative, driving tunes keep dancers energized and inspired while George’s smooth, efficient calling makes challenging contras seem easy as pie.

Wild Asparagus in 2025

George Marshall, renowned for his graceful calling style, also plays concertina, bodhran and bones.
Ann Percival delights dancers with irresistible piano and guitar rhythms and mellifluous vocals.
David Cantieni, woodwind wizard, adds rich layers to each arrangement with flute, tin-whistle, oboe, saxophone and bombard.
Becky Tracy graces each tune with her elegant, energetic fiddling.
Mark Murphy on bass fiddle; and
Pokey on percussion and you’ve got one big, bold sound.

Four Contra Dance sessions in three days!
Dance Schedule:

FRIDAY EVENING (4/23): 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
SATURDAY AFTERNOON (4/24): 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
SATURDAY AFTERNOON (4/24): Potluck Dinner @ 4:30 pm
SATURDAY EVENING (4/24): 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
SUNDAY AFTERNOON (4/25): 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

LOCATION: Dance at the air-conditioned dance barn at The Dancing Fish, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL 32666 (the western edge of Melrose, FL). Bring a lawn chair & enjoy outdoor activities on the shore of Lake Santa Fe when you’re not busy dancing. Snacks to share will be appreciated at all four dances this weekend.

OTHER ACTIVITIES Overnight camping, swimming, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, are available. Bring your own boat. Dancers should make their own arrangements. Grilling is allowed within the compound (bring your own grill).

Admission

Adult (age 26+) $20 per dance. Weekend Pass: $60 for entire weekend
Youth (age 16-25) $10 per dance Package Price: $30 for entire weekend
Children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult
Payment should be made online whenever possible (in advance, or the day of, or the day after, or …)
If this doesn’t work for you, come to the dance regardless, and talk to Joe.

Make Your Donation Here:

Donation to Wild Asparagus Weekend

Wild Asparagus WeekendAdult per danceAdult weekend passYouth per danceYouth weekend passYou decide

And see you on the dance floor at Wild Asparagus Weekend!
