The Background
Yes, DC. There is country dancing here, and it’s epic. Every Thursday, the non-profit Inspira Dance Inc. hosts Country Night at Clarendon Ballroom. First, you’ll take a beginner country swing class. Then, test out your new moves at the evening’s social dance which includes two step and incredible line dances. To boot (see what I did there?), proceeds support free student dance programs in the DMV. Throw in a full bar and you’re set!
The Standout Features
Here’s why we say yeehaw to this date:
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Make Contact: Dancing breaks the touch barrier and helps you get comfortable being close.
- Chemical Reaction: The lesson gets the blood pumping and the endorphins flowing. These feel-good hormones boost attraction and increase your mood, leading to a better experience.
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Be Partners: Practicing together highlights how you work as a team. The mutual support strengthens your bond and lets you know you can count on them.
- Love of Learning: It may take time to pick up the moves. No problem! Taking the class shows your partner has a growth mindset and will leave their comfort zone. These are outstanding qualities worth tracking.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Get In The Saddle
I park to the right of Northside Social, cross the street, and arrive 10 minutes before the 8pm lesson starts. When I enter, I spot two young ladies manning the check-in table. After I give them my name, I get a wrist band. Now that I’m set, I move deeper into the expansive room towards the DJ station. Along the way, I find my date.
Close to 8pm, instructors divide us into two groups – beginner and intermediate. Though I’ve danced before, my partner is new. With this in mind, we join the beginner class. First, leaders make a circle, faces pointed towards the center. Leaders are traditionally men, but any gender can lead the dance. Then, followers (typically women) stand across from the leads, creating an inner ring.
Date Main Event - Swing Your Partner
Once we’re in place, our teachers show us the first step. Afterwards, my partner and I try to copy their move. He picks it up quick. When I take notice and compliment him, he gives me a modest, endearing smile. I’m proud of him for being open to the challenge.
After a short while, instructors ask followers to rotate clockwise one spot. Now, we have new partners. Of course, switching is not required, but it has its advantages. If you’re on a first date, you may prefer making initial mistakes with strangers instead of your plus one. In the end, it’s important to do what works best for you.
We decide to switch. I wave goodbye to my companion and introduce myself to the next guy. Then, we tackle the second step. He’s more advanced than me, so I appreciate when he answers my question on the move. While we rotate, I glance at my date. He’s having a blast, grinning triumphantly as he nails a combo.
In due time, my original partner and I match up again. Since we’re at the end of the lesson, we run through the whole routine. He takes my hand and we do the choreography to music. We both laugh through our minor mistakes, and I note how much I enjoy being near him. The experience makes me like him even more.
After the class, we stay for the open dance session. Right away, I love the vibe. Seasoned dancers in cowboy hats, belt buckles, and boots flock to the floor as the DJ spins country remixes and old favorites. We get out there and practice what we’ve learned.
Soon, a country line dance comes on the speakers. I’m in awe of the participants. These steps are intricate, and the flawless coordination reminds me of a pro music video. We try mimicking the moves from the side, but we aren’t ready for our debut. With repetition, I know we could nail it.
Date Wrap Up - Hold Your Horses
After a few songs, we grab drinks and find a quiet place. Our conversation drifts from our favorite dance moments to other topics as we lose ourselves in the evening. Who knows what comes next?
The Planning
No need to do all the planning yourself. Here are the highlights, though always double check!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ First date ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year-round |
| Typical Hours | Typically on Thursdays, though there are occasional classes at a nearby location on Mondays and Tuesdays. Beginner and intermediate lessons are 8-9pm with open social dancing 9-11pm. |
| Duration | 1 hour for the class with an optional 2 hours of open social dancing afterwards |
| Cost | $12 purchasing online in advance, $15 at the door. |
| Booking | Book online here |
| Website | |
| Address | 3185 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201 |
| Transportation | The nearest metro stop is Clarendon Metro Station and the closest Capitol Bikeshare station is at Clarendon Metro / Wilson Blvd & N Highland St. There is limited street parking but if you want to drive, try the metered parking lot to the right of Northside Social or the parking lot off of N. Hartford St by East West Cafe. |
| Attire | Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. If you want to be festive, bring your cowboy boots and hat. There will be people wearing this attire there so you won't stick out. |
| To Bring | No need to bring anything. Water is provided. |
| Contact Info | Phone: (276) 477-4537; Email: stephanie@inspiradanceinc.com |
| Special Features | The organizer also hosts country workshops and events if you want more dancing! |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
If you want to keep the date going, we have a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can visit these places before your date, too. Make this list your own. The map shows the country dance spot (purple), as well as bonus date options (green) in one place. Before you go, though, always check times in case something’s changed.
- Brass Rabbit Public House (5 min walk): With black subway tiles and gold-plated bar accents, this place combines style with a splash of class. Come for a drink or late night bite. Open Mon-Thurs: 3pm – 12am, Fri: 3pm – 1am, Sat: 10am – 1am, Sun: 10am – 12am.
- Nicecream (6 min walk): Fall in love with handcrafted ice cream using local family farm ingredients and liquid nitrogen. This husband and wife owned shop delivers a science experiment and sweet treat all in one. Open daily 11am – 11pm.
- Three Whistles (8 min walk): This late night European coffee house is the perfect easy-going atmosphere for a coffee, alcoholic drink, pastry, or one of their 24 gelato flavors. Open Sun-Wed: 7:30am – 10pm, Thurs-Sat: 7:30am – 11pm.
- Galaxy Hut (8 min walk): Compete against your partner at vintage video games like Pac-Man built into the tables. This 100% vegan spot is a delightful combo of chill vibes, savory American fare, nerdy banter, and experimental music. Come on Sundays for a concert or enjoy their rooftop bar and a wide range of delicious local beers. Open Sun-Thurs: 5pm – midnight-ish, Fri-Sat: 5pm – 2am.