The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe

Drew Thomas and Loco-Motion
2026-02-21 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Drew Thomas and Loco-Motion

Drew Thomas of Tallahassee, Florida, brings her inviting stage presence and clear, dancer-friendly calling to this lively evening of contra dancing. With a knack for smooth delivery, thoughtful walk-throughs, and infectious enthusiasm on the mic, Drew helps dancers of all experience levels feel confident and connected on the floor.

The live music for the event comes from Loco-Motion, a spirited ensemble featuring Sarah Mitchell on flute, hammered dulcimer and assorted percussive sounds, Sherry Mattos on keyboards, Kathy Aagaard on fiddle, and Joe DePaolo on drums. The group’s rich, rhythmic blend of traditional tunes and energetic accompaniment keeps the contra dances swinging all night long.
Loco-Motion is:
• Sarah Mitchell on flute, hammered dulcimer & various noisy objects (feet, whistle, drum);
• Sherry Mattos on keyboard;
• Kathy Aagaard on fiddle; and
• Joe DePaolo on drums.
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

Will Mentor & Jet Bridge
2026-03-06 19:00 - 2026-03-07 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Will Mentor & Jet Bridge

Known for their inventive arrangements and infectious grooves, Jet Bridge blends old-time roots with contemporary flair, creating a high-energy sound that keeps dancers on their toes and smiling all night.
Jet Bridge is:

Paula Bradley
Sam Bartlett
Abby Ladon
Sami Braman

Will Mentor is a nationally acclaimed contra dance caller known for his expert timing, engaging style, and deep musical sensitivity. With a repertoire that spans traditional and contemporary contras, he brings a calm authority and infectious enthusiasm that consistently elevate the dance experience for both beginners and veterans alike.
Schedule:

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

Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

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
2026-03-21 18:00 - 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
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

April 3-4: Diane Silver & Hot Coffee Breakdown
2026-04-03 19:00 - 2026-04-04 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Diane Silver & Hot Coffee Breakdown

Hot Coffee Breakdown is a spirited contra dance band known for its driving rhythms, playful energy, and seamless blend of old-time and modern acoustic styles. Their lively tunes and infectious groove ignite dance floors wherever they play, delivering sets that are both deeply traditional and refreshingly inventive.
Hot Coffee Breakdown is:

Tom Cunningham on fiddle
Kate Sanders on keyboard, and
Luis deLeon on percussion.

Diane Silver is a nationally respected contra dance caller renowned for her graceful delivery, rhythmic intuition, and warm connection with dancers. With a voice that guides with ease and a repertoire full of lively, flowing dances, she brings both professionalism and joy to every event she leads.
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. RSVP for a headcount sukimsu@gmail.com or text 386-290-3731. Thank you!
Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

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

Wild Asparagus Weekend 2026
2026-04-17 19:00 - 2026-04-19 15:00 | FL
Wild Asparagus Weekend
April 17-19, 2026

George Marshall calling to music by Wild Asparagus

Wild Asparagus Weekend at the Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, April 17-19th 2026 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.
Pokey on percussion brings his dynamic groove and rhythm to the floor.
Add bodacious bass player Mark Murphy and you’ve got one Big, Bold sound.

Four Contra Dance sessions in three days!
Dance Schedule:

FRIDAY EVENING (4/17): 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
SATURDAY AFTERNOON (4/18): 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
SATURDAY AFTERNOON (4/18): Potluck Dinner @ 4:30 pm
SATURDAY EVENING (4/18): 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
SUNDAY AFTERNOON (4/19): 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!

Dereck Kalish and Lift Ticket
2026-05-01 19:00 - 2026-05-02 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Dereck Kalish and Lift Ticket

Lift Ticket is

Rex Blazer;
Jeff Spero; and
TJ Crow.

Caller: Dereck Kalish
Dereck Kalish, contra caller
Dereck Kalish is a dynamic contra dance caller known for clear teaching, smooth choreography, and an engaging stage presence. His calling blends precision and humor, helping both new and experienced dancers feel confident on the floor.
Schedule:

Friday 7-10 pm
Saturday 12-3 pm
Saturday 6-9 pm

Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

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

Joey Norton & The Mystic Gorillas
2026-05-16 18:00 - 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Caller:

Band: Mystic Gorillas

Roger Eudy on guitar
Buz Sibley on fiddle
Lloyd Baldwin on banjo and fiddle

Seth Tepfer & Sycamore
2026-06-05 19:00 - 2026-06-06 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Seth Tepfer & Sycamore
Seth Tepfer, contra caller
Seth Tepfer is a charismatic contra dance caller celebrated for his boundless energy, crystal-clear teaching, and magnetic stage presence. Whether calling for newcomers or seasoned dancers, Seth brings a contagious enthusiasm and a masterful sense of flow that transforms every dance into an unforgettable celebration.
Sycamore is:

Cedar Stanistreet, fiddle
Samuel Foucher, accordion
and ?

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. RSVP for a headcount sukimsu@gmail.com or text 386-299-3731. Thank you!
Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

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

Bronwyn Chelette & The Kumquats
2026-06-20 18:00 - 21:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Bronwyn Chelette & The Kumquats

The Kumquats are:Bill Dudley on guitarRich Crew on fluteSarah Mitchell on hammered dulcimer
The Kumquats are:

Sarah Mitchell on foot percussion, hammer Dulcimer and woodwinds
Rich Crew on fiddle
Bill Dudley on guitar

Fourth of July Weekend at The Dancing Fish
2026-07-03 18:00 - 2026-07-05 15:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
Fourth of July Weekend
at The Dancing Fish
July 3-5, 2026
Featuring:
Two callers: Janet Shepherd & Dwayne Johnson
Two bands: Kingfisher and Crossover

Caller Janet Shepherd is returning by popular demand.

Kingfisher is Cecilia Vacanti and Jeff Kaufman.

Crossover is:

Debby Knight
Len Bittenson (Viola/Fiddle/Recorder) and
Carol Bittenson (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: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

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. If you want grilled salmon, RSVP to Suanne Kimmel sukimsu@gmail.com , so she can bring enough salmon.

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 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
John Rogers & Contrafusion
Contrafusion is:

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

Labor Day Weekend Blast at The Dancing Fish
2026-09-04 18:00 - 2026-09-06 15:00 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
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: Suggested Donation

Adults

1st weekends: $15-30 per dance session or $30-60 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $10-20

Youth (under 26)

1st weekends: $7.50-15 per dance session or $15-30 for weekend pass
3rd Saturdays: $5-10

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 | The Dancing Fish of Lake Santa Fe, 24800 SR-26, Melrose, FL, 32666, United States
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
