Name: Boston Balfolk
Start: 2026-02-05T19:00:00-05:00
Location: 72 Joy St, Somerville, MA 02143-2111, United States

Tickets and info here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/theloov/1999359
What is Balfolk?
Balfolk refers to both a collection of European Dances, as well as the event itself, which often includes dancing, live music, and socializing. Balfolk has been gaining popularity since the 1960s with a recent surge of popularity in the United States over the past few years. The allure of balfolk lies in the simplicity of the movements and captivating nature of the music. Events range in size, from large festivals to just a few friends sharing a dance together at a house party. Balfolk is less a formalized dance, and more a chance to connect with those around us.

But what I’ve never danced before?
No worries! Balfolk events are more than just a dance. They’re a chance to hang out on couches and talk to strangers. They’re a chance to drink some tea and get lost in the music. They’re a chance to try something new, even if it’s just one new dance. Balfolk dances are designed to be simple so that you can focus on getting carried away on the winds of the intoxicating music. So don’t fear! Come see for yourself!
What will this event be like?
We’ll dance a variety of different dances throughout the night. Each dance will start with instruction by one of our amazing instructors who will teach you the dance and give you a chance to try it out. The band will then play a few traditional balfolk tunes that pair with that dance, and the whole room will get to dance together. Once the dance is over, the instructors will teach a new dance and the process will start again! Throughout the night, certain types of dances will be done more than once, giving you a chance to try out your new moves without a thorough walk-through.
We will have two breaks to encourage folks to meet people, hang out, and take a break from the dancing (sometimes it's hard to pull yourself away!).
How do I get there?
The Loov is directly next to the East Somerville Green Line T stop, as well as directly off of the Somerville bike path. Bike parking is available both in the front of the building in the parking lot and the back of the building through a gate directly from the bike path (there will be a sign). We encourage people to take the T, bike or to carpool. Ample parking in both the parking lot and on the street is available.
Accessibility:
There are 7 stairs up to enter the building from the front door parking lot. Some seating will be available throughout the evening. We will be utilizing ventilation, air purification and Far UV lights to lessen the chance of virus transmission at this event. If you have specific accessibility questions, please feel free to send an email to [email protected].