AboutUs
Join Us! MFS events have include contra and square dances, English Country dances, International Folk dances, Bal Folk dances, concerts, music jams, and shape-note-singing, and more. For upcoming events, please see: Home, Dances, or News. Singles, couples, students (K - college), and families are all welcome! We're member supported and things cost money (venues, callers, musicians, etc.) so please consider becoming a member to support these fun activities!
Contradancing
Contra dances begin with two lines running the length of the hall, usually a line of men and a line of women. These two lines are called a “set.” You and a partner (who could be anyone) will join a set. Each dance is taught from scratch so no experience is necessary. A “caller” will walk you slowly through simple figures in the dance, e.g. circle left. When the music starts — usually with a lively band — the caller will continue calling the figures to guide you. Pretty simple. And fun! What do you have to lose?
We hold contra dance several times a month. The Dance Calender page lists dates, times, and locations. A beginner's workshop precedes the dance.
Admission to contra dances is donation-based with a suggested donation of $10, but pay whatever works for you. We want you on the dance floor.
Annual MFS membership dues are $15 for Student/Restricted Income; $25 for Individuals and $40 for Families. Mail your check to: Missoula Folklore Society, PO Box 9296, Missoula, MT 59807. Or use PayPal on our Membership page.
A bit more
All Missoula Folklore Society events are smoke-free, fragrance-free, and hate-free.
We pride ourselves on being a friendly and safe place, and welcome singles, couples, students, and families regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, age, ideology, gender or sexual orientation.
Our activities rely on our dedicated membership. MFS members donate thousands of hours each year to help produce our events and enrich our cultural community. Please become a member!
We partner with the University of Montana student group, UM Folklore Society (UMFS), to pass on the dance tradition to the next generation. UMFS hosts an annual Town & Gown contra dance in the University Center Ballroom on campus and also summer dances at UM's Lubrecht Forest.
Organizational Reports
The Missoula Folklore Society is a Montana 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations to it are tax deductible.
Last updated October 4, 2026