So many of us love to live here in the Rockies, riding bikes and hiking during the summer, skiing and snow-shoeing in the winter. But for more than a few Grand County residents, there is another fun and physical activity that keeps them moving all year long. It’s a great cardio work-out, keeps their minds sharp and alert, and quite frankly, is just a whole lot of fun.

Welcome to the wonderful and often misunderstood world of Modern Western Square Dancing. Around in various forms since the 1800s, and currently the Official Dance of Colorado, square dancing saw its popularity jump dramatically when Henry Ford, who loved to dance, introduced it to his auto assembly line workers in the 1930s. He felt that if he provided active entertainment to them, they would work harder and complain less, as well as be more physically fit and miss less work. Nowadays, we dance mainly for the social interaction, but still enjoy a fun way to stay healthy.

The Never Summer Squares, formed in 2002 in Grand County by a handful of locals, has since grown to include more than 65 of our county’s finest. From Winter Park to Kremmling, from Granby to Grand Lake, people of all ages (8-80!) can enjoy this activity together in a safe, clean, and family friendly atmosphere.

Once thought as a “country” thing, complete with fiddle band, funny costumes, and a “twangy” caller, square dancing is now done to music of all types, from Garth Brooks to Madonna, the Beatles to Lady GaGa, even Broadway Show Tunes and Rap. There is something for everyone in today’s square dance world!

On Friday evening, Jan. 30, at 7 p.m., the Never Summer Squares will be holding their annual Free Chili Social, at the Granby Community Center, 3rd and East Jasper Ave. This evening of food, fun, and entertainment has become a popular winter event, with folks coming together to enjoy a great meal and a lot of laughs. Please feel free to bring the family out and give us a visit.

If you have any questions, please call Matt, 970-531-1626.