Alford party day (bring food to share)

A social is an evening of dancing for fun rather than a lesson. Many start with a short taster class for newcomers, then the DJ or band takes over. It is normal to ask anyone to dance – and to say no thanks politely – and nobody minds if you are new; most dancers remember their own first social.

Lindy Hop is the original swing dance, created by African-American dancers in Harlem in the late 1920s and 1930s and danced to big-band swing jazz. It is a partner dance built on an eight-count swingout, mixed with six-count moves, and it is famously improvised – lead and follow play with the music rather than repeating a routine. It suits any age, and most classes rotate partners. Read our full guide.

Rural Lincolnshire swing classes in Aisby, Market Rasen, Lincoln and Alford, plus occasional tea dances. We list 6 of their sessions, running on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. See everything from 52nd Street Jump.