Bumper Car Squares
Bumper Car Squares is a monthly square dance held at Glen Echo Park, offering an accessible and family-friendly afternoon of dancing in the climate-controlled Ballroom Back Room. The event begins with a brief introductory lesson that welcomes dancers of all skill levels, followed by a called square dance accompanied by live music. For the August 2, 2026 edition, caller Dave Hauver leads the dancing while the band Jump Fingers provides the live soundtrack, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. No partner or special attire is required, and shoes with backs are recommended for comfort and safety. The dance runs from early afternoon into the early evening, allowing participants to enjoy a full square dancing experience and still get home at a reasonable hour.
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 2:45 PM to 5:30 PM.
Showtimes: An introductory lesson for all skill levels takes place from 2:45 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by called square dancing with live music from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
Tickets: Discounted advance tickets are $12 for adults when purchased online only, with sales ending at 11:59 PM the night before the dance. Same-day tickets are $15 for adults (online or at the door), $5 for teens (at the door only), and free for ages 12 and under (at the door only). Payment at the door can be made by cash, check, or credit card. All sales are final.
Lineup: Caller Dave Hauver and live music by the band Jump Fingers.
Run time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes total, including the introductory lesson and the dance.
Ages: The event is open to all ages. Teens (ages 13–19) can attend for $5, and children ages 12 and under attend for free. Adult pricing applies to those 20 and older.
Venue: The dance takes place in the Ballroom Back Room at Glen Echo Park, a climate-controlled indoor space.
Note: No partner or special attire is required, but shoes with backs are recommended (no flip flops). The event is weatherproof, as the Ballroom Back Room is climate-controlled. Upcoming 2026 Bumper Car Squares dates include: August 2, September 6, October 4, November 1, and December 6.