Circle formation, creating a sense of community and connection among the participants.
The International Folk Dancers of Ottawa (IFDO) is a welcoming and inclusive dance community that offers a space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and enjoy the beauty and diversity of traditional folk dances from around the world. With a focus on teaching and encouraging participation, IFDO provides a supportive environment for both beginners and experienced dancers to learn new dances and improve their skills.
IFDO meets every Thursday evening at the Jack Purcell Community Centre in Room 203. The evening begins with a one-hour teaching session led by experienced instructors, followed by a time for requests where participants can dance to recently taught dances and request their favourites. In addition to the regular Thursday night dances, IFDO offers classes for intermediate to advanced dancers on Monday nights at certain times during the year.
Membership to IFDO is open to all, with an annual fee of C$85 that grants access to all Thursday night dances, including teaching sessions. Those who are new to IFDO are welcome to come and try dancing with the group at no cost, with the option to become a member or pay a drop-in fee of C$10 for subsequent visits.
Parking is convenient at the Jack Purcell Community Centre, with free parking available in the parking lot behind the Centre as well as on Jack Purcell Lane. Street parking is also available on nearby side streets for those attending the dance sessions.
Whether you are looking to learn new dances, meet new people, or simply have fun moving to music from around the world, the International Folk Dancers of Ottawa is a vibrant and inclusive community that welcomes dancers of all levels. Join us on Thursday nights to experience the joy and camaraderie of international folk dancing in the heart of Ottawa.