If you’ve ever taken part in English Country Dancing, Barn Dancing, or a lively Ceilidh, you’ll know they’re about much more than just the steps. These traditional folk dances bring people together in a way that almost always results in smiles, laughter, and unforgettable memories. But why is that? What makes these dances so joyful?
Whether you’re new to the dance floor or a seasoned do-si-doer, here’s why these dances are guaranteed to make your heart sing — and your face hurt from smiling.
1. It’s All About Connection
At the heart of English Country Dancing, Barn Dances, and Ceilidhs is human connection. Unlike modern club dancing, these folk dances are social and interactive. You’re constantly changing partners, making eye contact, and moving in sync with others.
These moments of shared rhythm create a strong sense of community, even among strangers. That connection naturally leads to laughter — especially when someone turns the wrong way or gets their lefts and rights mixed up (which happens a lot!).
2. Everyone’s Welcome – No Experience Needed
One of the biggest reasons people laugh and smile at these events is because they’re inclusive. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or have two left feet, there’s room for you.
Callers (the people who guide the dances) explain each move in a fun, accessible way. There’s no pressure to be perfect — messing up is half the fun! The supportive, relaxed atmosphere takes away any performance anxiety, replacing it with light-hearted fun and freedom.
3. The Music is Irresistibly Joyful
The live or recorded music at a Ceilidh or Barn Dance is often upbeat, folky, and infectiously happy. With fiddles, accordions, and guitars setting the pace, it’s impossible not to tap your foot or break into a grin.
Music has a powerful effect on our emotions — it releases dopamine, the “feel-good” hormone. Pair that with dancing and social interaction, and you’ve got a recipe for pure joy.
4. Mistakes Turn into Laughter
Here’s a secret: in folk dancing, nobody minds mistakes. In fact, they’re often the funniest part. When a group of people accidentally turns the wrong way or forgets a step, it usually ends in fits of laughter and a bit of chaos — in the best way.
That shared experience of “getting it wrong together” breaks down barriers and builds a sense of camaraderie. It reminds us that dance is about enjoyment, not perfection.
5. It’s a Great Workout – With a Smile
You might not realise it, but an hour or two of Barn Dancing or a Ceilidh is great exercise. You’re moving constantly — spinning, stepping, and swinging — all while laughing and smiling. It’s one of the rare forms of exercise that doesn’t feel like a workout, because it’s so much fun.
And exercise naturally releases endorphins — another feel-good hormone — so you leave the dance floor feeling energised, happy, and maybe just a little bit sweaty.
6. Tradition Meets Togetherness
There’s something special about taking part in a centuries-old tradition. English Country Dancing and Ceilidhs have been bringing people together for generations, and that sense of history creates a feeling of belonging.
When you dance these old patterns, you become part of something bigger — and that’s a powerful, uplifting experience. No wonder it makes people smile.
Come for the Dancing, Stay for the Laughter
If you’re looking for a way to have fun, meet people, and smile until your cheeks hurt, try English Country Dancing, a Barn Dance, or a Ceilidh. These dances aren’t about looking good — they’re about feeling good.
With infectious music, friendly faces, and a whole lot of laughter, you’ll soon discover why people keep coming back, dance after dance.
So don’t be shy — take a spin around the dance floor. The steps are easy, the mistakes are welcome, and the joy is absolutely guaranteed.
So, where in West Somerset can you go to get some of this Ceilidh, Barn dancing and Country Dancing smiling and laughter ?
Perhaps the easiest way is to join in with a local Ceilidh Dance Exercise Class so you get regular doses of the fun and laughter. For example, local band leader and dance caller Judy Mapledoram runs a weekly ceilidh dance exercise class to local band Barnbuskers recorded music at Minehead Rugby Club Hall each Wednesday between 5pm to 6pm. She also runs a similar class at Watchet Bowling Club 6pm to 7pm Thursdays. All are welcome, whether of working age or pensioners. For more information, follow the link to Judy’s Minehead and Watchet classes. (Insider info: There’s likely to be an exciting big Ceilidh Barn Dance to live music with Barnbusker Ceilidh Barn Dance Band and caller at the Minehead Rugby Club in the run up to Christmas. Come to the classes for more details!)
Interested? The best way to find out if the classes suit you is to come along. You will be made welcome. To give Judy an idea of numbers, it would be helpful if you could contact her via the WhatsApp button below!
Alternatively, if you are planning a special private birthday, anniversary or wedding, Barnbuskers Ceilidh Barn Dance Band provide the music and dance caller for private ceilidhs and country barn dances throughout Somerset and Devon and will be happy to provide the live music and caller. Again contact Judy who is Barnbuskers band leader and organiser and can discuss availability. Either by the WhatsApp button above or through Barnbuskers Ceildh Barn Dance Band contact page.
Barnbuskers 