WELCOME TO An Entertainment Site for Scottish Country Dancers - Enjoy the curated selection of theme-related dances for celebrations and holidays, or find a dance associated with a special calendar day, or EVEN your own birthday!
Scottish Country Dancing and Queen Elizabeth II
April Recruiting Month
Apr 8
Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day
Today's Musings, History & Folklore
"Try it! You'll like it!"
Reel 'em in, folks! Celebrate the month of April with this really reely reel AND by encouraging non-dancing friends or your local group to create an easy springtime entry point for those looking to try out a new activity! April showers bring May flowers, but they can also attract new dancers, just by virtue of the seasons when people look for new things do to!
Many dance groups are on a fixed calendar cycle that parallels school terms with a busy and historic rotation of special events, but new recruits are a valuable commodity in the RSCDS world and should always have a way to join in regardless of the time of year. Invite your friends for an special open house, do a bit of ceilidh dancing to start, give them a quick easy dance to learn, or hold open house dances once a month geared towards making newcomers welcome and recruit your friendliest and welcoming dancers to assist!
What are your best ideas on how to attract (and retain) newcomers? Do you have a way to build confidence integrate them earlier into sets with modified steps? Innovative recruiting strategies? Welcoming committee and mentors? Fusion evenings - Salsa & Strathspeys? It's all good! ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ 🕺 💃 🪷 🌷 🏵️ 💮 🥀
Come Join the Dance
Recruiting people into a new dance form like Scottish country dancing requires a blend of strategic outreach, community-building, and joyful presentation. First and foremost, it's essential to showcase the fun, inclusive, and social aspects of the dance. Many people feel intimidated by the idea of structured dance, but Scottish country dancing is uniquely communal—it's not about perfection, but participation. When advertising, focus on the welcoming atmosphere, lively music, and the chance to connect with others. Using imagery of smiling dancers, energetic movement, and kilts swirling in harmony can instantly convey the spirit of the form.
Offering a low-barrier entry point is key. Host free or low-cost introductory sessions that emphasize enjoyment over technical mastery. These can be short, themed events—“Ceilidh Night for Beginners” or “Taste of Scotland” sessions—that allow people to dip a toe in without committing to a long series. If possible, pair new dancers with friendly, experienced volunteers who can partner with them and make the first experience supportive rather than daunting.
Visibility and partnerships can go a long way. Team up with local cultural organizations, schools, music groups, or fitness centers to co-host events or spread the word. Pop-up demos in public parks, local fairs, or even flash mobs in town centers can stir curiosity. Always have flyers or QR codes handy leading to your group’s website or social media, where potential dancers can learn more and sign up. Don’t forget short, engaging videos of rehearsals or social events—these show off the joyful reality of participation better than words alone.
Lastly, create a sense of belonging. Celebrate small milestones for new dancers and feature stories of why current members love dancing. Build an online presence that reflects the warmth of the group, not just the formality of the dance. A beginner who feels seen, welcomed, and appreciated is far more likely to come back—and bring a friend.
For a tremendous success story on recruiting from the Johnsonville Scottish Country Dance club, click the dance manual
Click the dance cribs or description below to link to a printable version of the dance!
