Do I need prior dance experience to join?

No prior experience is needed; classes are designed for beginners and those with some dance background alike.

What should I wear to the dance class?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement and shoes suitable for dancing, preferably with smooth soles.

Are partners required or can I attend solo?

You can attend solo or with a partner; classes accommodate individuals of all configurations.

How many sessions are included in the class package?

Each package includes five sessions, held weekly on Wednesday evenings.

Is there parking available at Houmas House Plantation?

Yes, ample parking is available on site for participants attending the classes.

Can I join if I miss a class?

Classes are best experienced in sequence, but talk to organizers for possible make-up options.

Jitterbug Dance Classes at Houmas House Plantation, Louisiana | Events | Workshop

In the heart of Darrow, Louisiana, Houmas House Plantation opens its doors to an energizing blend of history and rhythm with its Jitterbug (East Coast Swing) and Slow Dance Class series. Beginning each Wednesday evening starting September 3rd, dance enthusiasts and novices alike can gather in this stately Southern setting to engage in five dynamic sessions led by Beverly Cook, a seasoned instructor who promises to revive the lively spirit of swing and slow dance traditions.

Houmas House is more than just a historic plantation; it's a cultural backdrop steeped in 19th-century architecture and sprawling grounds alongside the mighty Mississippi River’s nearby expanse. This venue’s authentic charm provides an intimate atmosphere where each dance step feels connected to a rich Louisiana heritage shaped by French Creole influences and antebellum history.

The Jitterbug class taps into the high-energy dance style that traces its roots back to the swing era, combining fast footwork and smooth partner dynamics, making it an exhilarating cardiovascular workout as much as a step back into a joyful social dance era. Meanwhile, the slow dance sessions offer a counterbalance, inviting participants to hone connection, timing, and grace on the polished floors of one of Louisiana’s most picturesque historic sites.

These five-week evening courses, $75 plus tax, are designed for those craving movement and music in a welcoming environment, ideal for both locals seeking a new pastime and visitors eager to add a cultural twist to their Louisiana experience. With a limited group size, every dancer receives personalized attention to grow skills quickly while surrounded by the plantation’s stately columns, live oak-shaded gardens, and evocative charm.

Whether you’re rekindling a passion for swing or stepping onto a dance floor for the first time, Houmas House Plantation’s dance classes offer more than just movement—they offer an immersive Southern evening full of camaraderie, music, and timeless fun.