Scottish country dancing — a tradition dating back centuries — is finding renewed energy in southwest Washington as small groups of enthusiasts continue to gather for social dance nights. While one of the most consistent meetups happens in downtown Vancouver, similar gatherings have quietly taken root in Cowlitz County and other parts of the region, keeping the cultural form alive through regular community practice.

Participants describe the dancing as both a social activity and a physical workout. Reels, jigs, and strathspeys — the distinct dance forms associated with Scotland’s folk traditions — are performed to lively fiddle and pipe music. Dancers often move in sets or circles, relying on memorized patterns and cooperation among partners. What distinguishes these gatherings, participants say, is the emphasis on inclusion: new dancers are welcomed regardless of experience level, and most sessions start with a gentle walk-through of each dance.

In Cowlitz County, local interest in Scottish dance has surfaced through heritage festivals and workshops, often supported by cultural preservation groups and local arts councils. Events in Longview and Kelso occasionally feature country dance demonstrations, and visiting instructors have offered introductory lessons through community centers and private studios. These efforts give residents the chance to experience an art form that blends movement, music, and community-building.

Though the scene is small compared to larger metropolitan communities, the consistency of participation points to an enduring cultural appeal. The dances, rooted in Scotland’s 18th-century social gatherings, promote both tradition and connection — a balance that resonates with dancers seeking fellowship without competition.

For those in southwest Washington interested in joining practices or learning the basics, meetings are typically informal and can be found through local event listings, heritage organizations, or regional cultural groups affiliated with Scottish dance societies.

The Columbia-based original reporting that inspired this coverage can be found at The Columbian.