Irish Dancing

Did you know there is a whole world of Irish dance beyond Riverdance and little girls wearing bright costumes in dance competitions? People of all ages and nationalities get together and turn toe tapping into happy social dances set to traditional, lively Irish tunes. Céilís (pronounced "kay lees") are Irish dance parties where the musicians and dancers create an amazing shared energy in the dance hall or pub. There are many dances and a variety of moves, formations, and steps so you'll never be bored. Some céilí and set dances are similar to Contra, American square dancing, or English country dancing, but the Irish has a magical style and vibe all its own.

This page offers a list of opportunities to dance in and around the Dallas / Fort Worth metroplex and beyond, whether you are a new dancer seeking to learn or an experienced dancer wanting to kick up your heels. Peruse this page for highlights and the Calendar for upcoming events, or sign up to receive notices on our e-mail list. If you hear about an event or classes open for public participation, please send them to us so we can pass the word along. See you at the next céilí!

Upcoming Events

Trinity Hall Céilí Session -- July 5, 2009

Party on Independence Day weekend by joining the fun at the next céilí with the Trinity Hall Session Players! It's Sunday the 5th, from 3:00 - 6:00pm. Spread the word by sharing this flyer at your school or office. (Psst! Feel free to request dances by dropping us a note ahead of time.)

Texas Rose of Tralee Céilí -- July 11, 2009

Get out of the heat and stomp your feet for a wonderful afternoon of family fun. Swing around the dance floor with the 2009 Texas Rose of Tralee Leslie McDonough. The céilí will be held in the former Chaucer's space next door to Trinity Hall. Calling by Susan Harrison. This is a fundraiser for the Texas Rose of Tralee. Cost is $10 per person.

Trinity Hall Céilí Session -- August 2, 2009

Come out and dance at the August céilí with the Trinity Hall Session Players! Dancing from 3:00 - 6:00pm. Billye Cheek and Sharon O'Rourke will call the dances. Don't miss it!

Frisco Athletic Center Class -- Aug. 5 to Sept. 9, 2009

Would you like to try lessons in Irish Set Dancing in a classroom setting? Register now for the next session, which starts August 5. (Hint: click the title above.) These classes, held in the Senior Center's aerobics room, are open to anyone 16 and up. Sets taught will adjust to the participants' level, so beginners and experienced alike will have fun. SALE! This session's price has been reduced, and it's a bargain for couples, so do sign up!

Running Calendar

For general Irish dance information see the Irish Dance Wiki.

Past Events

Trinity Hall Céilí Session -- June 7, 2009

Our first session with the Trinity Hall Session Players and area dancers was awesome! Click the picture to see more photos from the day.

SCMA Celtic Céilí -- May 16, 2009

It was time to dodge sculptures again! For pictures and video take a look in the gallery

SCMA Celtic Céilí -- April 4, 2009

For pictures and video take a look in the gallery

North Texas Irish Festival -- March 6-8, 2009

NTIF was a blast. Awesome weather, shows, and vendors plus the novelty of a new (old) space made for a memorable weekend.

Lochrann's Pub Dancing -- Feb. 15, 2009

Ahh, it's so nice to spread out in Lochrann's new Devin Hall.

SCMA Céilí -- November 22, 2008

The 2008 Party Ceili had a great turnout! We danced the Ballyvourney Jig Set, the Antrim Square, the Fairy Reel, and plenty more. Treasured quilts adorned the ArtCentre's walls and were even draped inside a Sleeping-Beauty-like display. "Around the house and mind the sarcophagus!"

SCMA Céilí -- October 11, 2008

SCMA Céilí -- September 27, 2008

The first céilí at the ArtCentre, and the venue was definitely a hit.

SCMA Céilí -- June 14, 2008

A fond farewell to the Move Studio.

SCMA Céilí -- April 12, 2008

The second céilí of 2008 was another mix of new and experienced dancers and was lots of fun. Danced through several figures from the Ballingeary set, the High Cauled Cap, a few two hands and even tried on the Flowers of Edinburgh.

Lochrann's Pub in Frisco TX Apr 6, 2008

We got bumped due to an away soccer game so started things about 4:30 rather than the regular 2:00pm but it was fun just the same. Come join us sometime! Check the calendar above or email us to confirm. (Psst...Click the photo below to see the gallery photos from past sessions.)

We also have a blog post at the dragonseye.com blog

The North Texas Irish Festival -- March 1, 2008

NTIF was great fun and the crowds were such that the festival way paid for on the first day! The dancing and music kept our feet moving and the Saturday night céilí left us tired but happy. Altan was a great treat on Sunday and the festival was an all-around success (except for the concession lines).
Take a look at the pictures and video over here.

Lochrann's Pub in Frisco TX

Finally, a real Irish pub north of 635 that encourages trad music and dancing! We adult dancers are all about this. Dec. 30, 2007 was our first chance to dance while Bob Moore & friends played. We dance on 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from 3:00 - 6:00pm. Join us! Check the calendar above or email us to confirm. (Psst...Click the photo below to see the gallery photos from past sessions.)