Squirrel Moon Contra Dance Weekend

September 18-20, 2026

held at Folklore Village near Dodgeville, WI

Will Mentor w/Audrey Jaber and Alex Cumming

Dance, Camp, Eat, Play!!

Join about 100 of us from WI, IL, MN, MI, IA, MO, and elsewhere!

Registration will open Summer 2026. Email squirrelmoonreg@gmail.com to be added to our list to get notified.

Squirrel Moon 2023, Bev Birnbaum w/Boys with the Noise. Dance is "Vote with your Feet" by Bob Isaacs.

Health protocols are here. Briefly, don't come if you are or might be sick.

Will Mentor

Will Mentor is a contra and square dance caller from Northern Vermont known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight, all the while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: "It's about the dancers!”

Audrey Jaber and Alex Cumming

Alex Cumming (Bellwether, Red Case Band, The Teacups) and Audrey Jaber (Free Raisins, Wake Up Robin, Gaslight Tinkers) are a dynamic duo in the traditional folk music scene, known for their captivating performances and deep-rooted passion for folk traditions.

Together, Alex and Audrey create a unique and engaging traditional music experience. Their collaboration blends Alex’s traditional singing and rhythmic accordion playing with Audrey’s lively fiddling, resulting in performances that resonate deeply with audiences. Audrey played fiddle on Alex’s debut solo album, “Homecoming,” released in 2024 and the duo are working on their debut duo record in 2025.

Recent notable performances include Club Passim, Monadnock Folklore Society, Folklore Society of Greater Washington, Folk Music Society of New York, Historical Tea & Dance Society, Halsway Manor, Cecil Sharp House, Circle Left, BACDS Fall Frolic and as guest artists in The Christmas Revels at Sanders Theater. 2025 sees them embark on tours across California, Pacific North West, North East US and famed UK festivals Sidmouth Folk Festival, Broadstairs Folk Week and Whitby Folk Week.

Their partnership is celebrated for its ability to connect with audiences through passionate and authentic performances, making them a beloved duo in the traditional folk music community.

Learn more on their website: https://www.alexcummingaudreyjaber.com/.

General Information

Squirrel Moon takes place in the lovely Farwell Hall at Folklore Village, a nationally recognized folk arts and culture center. It's located in the country just 45 minutes west of Madison, Wisconsin.

Tenting and rustic bunkhouses (new HVAC!!) are on-site, and there are several motels within a short drive.

We prepare meals and eat together from Friday dinner through Sunday brunch.

Please register early; we expect to sell out. Registration is limited.

If you're on Facebook, RSVP to the event to connect with other dancers and "Like" our page.

If you have questions, or to get on the email list, contact SquirrelMoonReg@gmail.com.

Folklore Village is located at 3210 County Road BB, Dodgeville, WI 53533.

"Of all the contra weekends I attend, Squirrel Moon is one that I would be most disappointed to miss." -- Dave H, Chicago

"It starts like a contra dance weekend and ends like a family reunion." -- Joel P, Chicago

"Thanks again for a fabulous weekend. The organization of your event is second to none!" -- Lori P, Salt Lake City

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