HOT SPRINGS, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Contra dancing is a integral part of Appalachian community culture and a recurring event in the mountainous parts of North Carolina, especially in the small town of Hot Springs.
Before Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage to Hot Springs, nearby Marshall and the surrounding region, contra dancers would meet every 3rd Friday of the month at Pine Hall, 64 South Spring Street.
Just in time for the close of 2024, contra dancers will be hitting the wood slats of Pine Hall once more.
The Friends of Hot Springs NC Contradance Facebook group is a central hub of contra dancing information in Hot Springs. Their December “3rd Friday” event will be held from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 20 at Pine Hall. Tickets will cost $10 at the door.
The community folk dancing event is the perfect symbol of the resilience of the Appalachian mountains in Western North Carolina: a room of people moving all together to create a single powerful force.