Get your dancing shoes on and join us for an Equinox Ceilidh on Saturday 21st March.
Everyone is welcome! Buy tickets below.
When?
Saturday 21st March 2026
Doors open 6:30pm. Dancing from 7:00pm to 10:30pm, with half an hour break.
Where?
St Alban’s Church Hall, Bayswater Avenue, Westbury Park, Bristol BS6 7NS
What is a ceilidh?
An English ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) is a traditional social dance, also sometimes known as a Barn Dance. People typically dance in pairs, grouped into variously arranged groups called sets. A dedicated caller will first teach each dance without music in an initial walk-through; the dance then runs several times through to music, with the caller giving reminders and guidance as needed.
What will happen during the evening?
Doors open at 6:30pm, with dancing from 7pm until 10:30pm, with a half-hour break about halfway through the evening. There will be a raffle, and there may be one or two other surprises happening in the break too!
What will the music be?
We are delighted to welcome the Bristol Grammar School Reel Folk band, who will be playing lively traditional dance tunes from across the British Isles, on fiddle, accordion, flute, whistle, guitar, and cajon.
What if I haven’t been to a ceilidh before?
Don’t worry! All dances are walked through beforehand and the caller will prompt you during the dance as well.
Who can I dance with?
You can dance with anyone who also wants to dance with you! Dancing is typically done in a pair with one other person, and then a number of pairs group together to form a set. Dance roles have traditionally been gendered, but at our ceilidh any person can dance either role at any time, and dances will be called gender-free.
What should I wear?
Wear shoes that are suitable and comfortable for dancing (no high heels or shoes which might slip off) and clothing suitable for dancing. Avoid watches and other jewellery which might scratch others. We may open side doors and windows to keep the dancers cool, so you may wish to bring an extra warm layer.
What are you fundraising for?
All proceeds from the event will go towards the joint 18th and 90th Bristol 2026 Scouts trip to the International Scout Campsite in Kandersteg, Switzerland. You can read more about the trip here. Watch out for other fundraising events happening soon!
Are children welcome?
Yes! After all, this is a Scouts fundraising ceilidh. However, very young children may not be able to join in dances independently, and non-dancers should stay off the dance floor during dances.
What food and drink will be available?
There will be a bar selling a range of alcoholic and soft drinks and also crisps, sweets, chocolate, and cakes. We can take cash and card payments.
Is there parking?
There is no general parking for the hall car park itself. The few spaces will be reserved for organisers with large equipment and those with access needs. (If you would like to reserve a space, please get in touch at equinoxceilidh@gmail.com.) However, there is plenty of free on-street parking in the area. Please park respectfully.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes please! Any spare tickets will be sold on the door, but advance booking will help us make sure we provide enough refreshments on the night, and will also prevent disappoint as tickets may sell out. Thank you!
Can I help out?
Yes please! If you could help out by spending half an hour on the door, selling raffle tickets, serving at the bar, or helping set-up/clear up that would be wonderful please! Or you might be willing to make some cakes or donate a raffle prize. Please get in touch at equinoxceilidh@gmail.com.
What if I have other questions?
Not a problem – just drop us an email to equinoxceilidh@gmail.com.
