What exactly is a Ceilidh? Think of a giant, welcoming dance party where nobody cares if you mess up the steps!
Expect fast-paced reels, linking arms to swing your partner, and plenty of laughs. There's zero experience required—our caller walks everyone through the simple group formations before the music even starts, and Lochanside keeps the live energy high all afternoon. Grab the kids, grab a friend, and let’s get spinning!
Here are four of the most popular and classic dances traditionally performed at a Scottish Ceilidh:
The Gay Gordons
A couple’s dance where pairs form a large circle moving around the room. Dancers walk forward together, turn, walk backward, and then the lead twirls their partner under their arm before spinning around to the lively music. It’s usually the opening dance because the steps are simple to learn.
Strip the Willow
A classic, high-energy line dance where two long lines of dancers face each other. Couples take turns spinning each other in the middle using an elbow-grip before moving down the line to "strip" past every other dancer with fast-paced spins. It ends with a burst of playful energy as the music gradually speeds up.
The Dashing White Sergeant
Danced in sets of three (usually one dancer with two partners, or any group of three) facing another group of three. The dancers join hands to circle around, weave in and out of each other, and spin with partners in a figure-eight pattern before marching past the opposite group to meet a new trio.
The Canadian Barn Dance
A progressive, easygoing dance done in pairs around the room. Couples march forward and back, step side-to-side together, and then turn and skip forward to switch partners or move on to the next couple in line.
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 5357
April 03, 2027
7pm-10pm
Online Members $15
Online Non Member $20
At the Door $20