New Year's Eve Bush Dance in Canberra

Name: New Year's Eve Bush Dance in Canberra
Start: 2025-12-31T19:45:00+11:00
End: 2025-12-31T19:45:00+11:00
Location: Yarralumla Woolshed

About

See in the New Year at a traditional Australian Bush Dance at the historic Yarralumla Woolshed in Canberra.

When: Tuesday, 31 December 2025 – arrive anytime from 7.45pm, with dancing from 8:00 pm until after we see the New Year in (about 12.15am).

Get ready for a great night of dancing as all dances are taught, walked through and called by our expert caller, Don Richmond, to live music by our band Stringfiddle.

The entry fee includes free, unlimited tea, coffee, water and cordial. BYO cup if you prefer not to use disposables.

What should I bring?
Please bring a plate of food for a shared supper (preferably in ready-to-serve portions) to be served about 10pm. BYO additional nibbles and drinks if you wish.

Some people picnic in the grounds prior to the dance – this is perfectly fine – just bring everything you need as there are very limited facilities outside! Gates are unlocked all day (but please close them behind you to safeguard the adjacent equestrian areas).

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably! Bush dancing is great exercise, and it is a good workout, and so don’t overdress. Even if it is cool you probably won’t want to wear a jumper or long sleeves while dancing, as you will probably get quite warm. Layers of clothing work well, just as in Cross-Country skiing. Women often enjoy dancing in a skirt, as skirts flow to movement with the music. Light-weight casual shirts and blouses are common dress, but don’t stress about what to wear – there is no special costume, just be comfortable.

What about shoes?
Flat, comfortable shoes with smooth soles are best for dancing. Shoes with rubber soles are not recommended, as these tend to catch and grip on the floor and are therefore harder on your joints – ankles, knees and hips. But people have danced in joggers, tennis shoes or whatever. The main thing is that your shoes are comfortable for you for active dancing.

Since we dance on a hardwood floor, please bring a separate pair of dancing shoes from the ones you wear to the dance. If not, please clean off any grit from outside that might be on the soles of your shoes to avoid damage to the floor.