DanceFit: Folk Dances of India

DanceFit: Folk Dances of India is a Saturday morning dance-fitness series at Glen Echo Park led by Smita Khatri. The class combines exercise with an introduction to three Indian folk traditions: Bhangra from Punjab, plus Garba and Dandiya Raas from Gujarat. Participants can learn and experience these community dances in an upbeat, welcoming setting; partners are not required, though attendees are welcome to bring a friend.

The dances have historically been performed in groups during festivals and other special occasions. The class is designed to keep participants moving while exploring the cultural background and distinctive movement of each style.

When: Saturdays, October 3 through October 31, 2026

Showtimes: October 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31, 2026, from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Run time: One hour per class

Lineup: Smita Khatri, instructor; featured dances include Bhangra, Garba, and Dandiya Raas

Tickets: Early Bird Registration is $13 per class until 11:59 p.m. the night before each class or until early-bird capacity is reached. General Registration is $15 per class, available at the door with cash, check, or card until overall capacity is reached. A 10-class package costs $120 and may be used by one person or shared with a friend; it is valid for all DanceFit classes for six months after purchase.

Venue: Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD 20812

Parking: Free parking is available in a large lot off Oxford Road, accessed from MacArthur Boulevard.

Accessibility: No accessibility information is currently available for this event.

Contact: Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture at (301) 634-2222 or dance@glenechopark.org

Note: No dance partner is needed for the class; participants should come prepared to move and dance.