What we’re about
We're a group of folks 50 & over who do moderate hikes, mostly in the South Bay on Saturday Mornings and alternating Wednesdays, 6-9 miles max at a moderate pace. For this group it's more about the community, camaraderie and journey than the destination, meet new friends who want to hike, and then go out to lunch after. Sort of like going to party where you get some exercise.
Disclaimer: I'm doing this because I like hiking and meeting such wonderful people. We're all grownups at this point and you're responsible for your health and safety. Hiking and changing weather and trail conditions can be dangerous. By signing up for these events, you agree to release South Bay 50+ Social Hikers and especially me and any other organizers from any responsibility, liability, or claim in law or in equity. If you don't agree to these terms, DO NOT join this meetup event. You are responsible for yourself. Please come prepared with appropriate hiking shoes, gear, water and a sense of humor.
Upcoming events
3
Come Try Contra Dancing at the Halloween Dance (costumes optional)
First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA, USSpecial Halloween Contra Dance!!! Wear your (dance-able) costumes!! (Of course, costumes are not required, but they ARE admired!)
Susan Petrick will call to live music of Rodney Miller (fiddle), Paul Kotapish (guitar), Daniel Steinberg (piano), and Ezra Steinberg (percussion).
Day: Saturday, Oct 25, 2025.Time: 7 to 10 PM with a free beginners’ lesson at 6:30 PM.
Venue: Second floor, First United Methodist Church Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301.
Cost: Pay what you can. Recommend $15 for BACDS members, $20 for non-members, $10 for students. Purchase in person or online (https://paloaltocontradance.org/calendar/).
Values: Hosting inclusive dances is a priority. Bringing a partner is not necessary, and dancers are encouraged to switch partners after each dance. Dances are called in a gender-free format, and emphasis is on safe and respectful dancing.What is Contra Dancing?
Contra dancing is a partner dance that features live music and long lines of dancers. An evening features multiple contra dances and usually a couple of waltzes. Contra dancing is a fantastic introduction to dancing because the basic steps are based on walking and are taught at the start of every dance and called throughout each dance. It is also a fun dance for experienced dancers because the dances are rather flexible, allowing people to add flourishes (like twirling or skipping) around the basic walking steps.
Is Contra dancing for me?
YES! We welcome people old and young, of all genders, races, nationalities, and other identities, and strive to create an inclusive dance floor. Notably, our dances are called/announced using gender-free terms.
Can I come without a partner?
YES! Dances have a mix of people who come with partners and those that don’t. Typically, everyone switches partners through the course of the evening to meet new people and experience the dance and energies of different people.
But I’m hesitant to try something new! How can I ease in?
Every dance hosts a 30-minute free beginner’s lesson covering the different ways of walking (Contra dance moves). Come check it out! If you like it, stay on. Otherwise, you’ll be in downtown Palo Alto with lots of good food, music, and desserts on a Saturday evening. Classic win-win situation.
Okay! What do I need to go dancing?
a. Wear comfortable, supportive, clean non-marking shoes.
b. Wear comfortable clothes, because the dance room can get warm. If you’d like, wear a flowy garment so the twirls are more fun.
c. We are no longer requiring participants to wear a mask. You may bring an N95 or KN95 mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory pathogens.
d. Bring cash to pay for the dance or pre-purchase online at https://paloaltocontradance.org/calendar/
e. Bring a water bottle. We do have a water fountain at the venue.6 attendees
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