Bumper Car Squares

Bumper Car Squares is an afternoon square dance hosted at Glen Echo Park’s open-air Bumper Car Pavilion, welcoming dancers of every experience level. The event begins with a square dance introduction lesson designed for all skill levels, then moves into live-music square dancing led by caller Dakota Karper. Critton Hollow String Band provides the music, playing from mid-afternoon into early evening so dancers can enjoy a full afternoon of do-si-dos and partner swings while still getting home at a reasonable hour. No partner, prior experience, or special clothing is required, and the covered pavilion is equipped with industrial fans and overhead radiant heaters, so the dance proceeds rain or shine, in hot or cold weather. Dancers are advised to wear shoes with backs rather than flip-flops. Bumper Car Squares appears monthly at Glen Echo Park, and this particular dance takes place on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

When: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Venue: Bumper Car Pavilion, Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD 20812
Schedule: Square dance intro lesson 2:45pm–3:00pm; live square dancing with caller Dakota Karper and Critton Hollow String Band 3:00pm–5:30pm
Lineup: Caller Dakota Karper; live band Critton Hollow String Band
Tickets: Advance tickets $12 for adults (online only, sales end 11:59pm the night before the dance); same-day tickets $15 per adult (online or at the door, cash/check/credit card accepted); $5 per teen (at the door only); free for ages 12 and under (at the door only). All sales are final.
Ages: All ages welcome; free admission for children 12 and under, discounted teen admission available at the door
Requirements: No partner or prior experience needed; no special attire required, but shoes with backs are recommended
Note: Admission includes the introductory square dance lesson; the event is held in a covered, open-air pavilion with fans and heaters for comfort in any weather.