Hootin an Hollarin to feature square dancing each night, new dance platform being added
It’s a long-standing tradition for Hootin an Hollarin festival-goers to kick up their heels on the square dance platforms in front of the Main stage. This photo, taken by Karla Smith at a festival a couple of years ago, shows a wide view of the dancers on the platforms. Last year’s festival had a very large crowd of square dancers, which extended beyond the platforms and into the streets. This year, organizers have added a dance platform. Photo by Karla Smith.
To find the heart of the Hootin an Hollarin spirit, look no further than the swirling, twirling groups of folks out on the old wooden platforms dancing the night away under the starry September sky.
Every night from 9 p.m. to midnight, Hootin an Hollarin turns its focus to one of its most fun and festive features – square dancing.
This year marks a rare occasion, as festival organizers have decided to add an additional new square dance platform to help accommodate the ever-growing popularity of the event. With more room to kick up their heels, even more dancers can join in on the tradition that keeps the festival alive with music, laughter and good, old small-town community spirit.
Want to join the fun? Here’s how Hootin an Hollarin square-dance regulars recommend you get your start: Usually, there’s a big group of youngish square dancers on the south platform, the one farthest from the stage. It’s generally accepted that everyone is welcome on that dance floor, and those young whippersnappers are good at teaching novices of all ages the basics of how to step, twirl and allemande through the caller’s commands. The Gainesville Elementary School has been giving lessons to students in gym class, so they’ll be ready to join in on all the fun too!
If you’re ready to try to participate with the more experienced dancers on one of the platforms closer to the stage, wait ‘til they’re taking a break between songs and then ask one of the dancers if you might join their square for a song or two.
It’s worth taking a minute or two to watch the most experienced, organized groups of four couples dancing the night away. They are a sight to see and are usually found on the platforms on the north end toward Century Bank of the Ozarks.
So don’t be afraid to jump right in, whatever your skill level. You’ll soon be do-si-doing with the best of ’em (literally!), and having a great time doing it. It’s what Hootin an Hollarin is all about.