Holiday Show of the Week

Whether you’re needing a bit of exercise to work off the Christmas feast, seeking some family fun time with lots of other folks, or merely looking for a way out of the house after a weekend with relatives, the Santa Barbara Country Dance Society might have the answer. They’re throwing open their doors to everyone with the free annual Christmas contra dance, which takes place 6:30-9:30 pm on December 25 at the Carrillo Ballroom (100 East Carrillo Street), a celebratory event that’s also participatory. All are welcome, from the uber-experienced to those that have to Google contra dance. We’ll save you the trouble: it’s a form of folk dance somewhat similar to square dance but performed in long lines where a pair of dancers progress through the line, with all the steps provided by a “caller.” 

A terrific live band provides the music, former Santa Barbara resident Erik Hoffman is the veteran caller who makes things more than easy for beginners, and the atmosphere is beyond friendly and festive. There’s even a free dance lesson at 6:10 pm. But feel free to just come listen and watch. 

Visit www.sbcds.org/contradance.