it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that

Swing

What is swing dance?

Swing dance is a group of social dances that developed with the swing style of jazz music in the 1920s–1940s. Hundreds of styles of swing dancing were developed; those that have survived beyond that era include Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag, and Charleston. Today, the best-known of these dances is the Lindy Hop, which originated in Harlem in the early 1930s

Swing dancing was most popular in the 1930s and 1940s, but it still continues today. Dance moves have evolved with the music. Swing dancing styles are the foundation of many other dance styles including disco, country line dancing, and hip hop. Swing dancing clubs and contests are still held around the world

Frankie Manning was an American dancer, instructor, and choreographer. Manning is considered one of the founders of Lindy Hop, an energetic form of the jazz dance style known as swing.

See some swing

Lindy Hop performance at the Rock That Swing Festival in Munich in 2023

Balboa showcase at Rock That Swing 2017

The Charleston on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, 2021

Collegiate Shag in Barcelona, 2023

Want to give swing dance a try?

You can find lessons, social dances, and events in many major cities around the world - whether at dedicated swing dance studios, or hosted by swing dance groups in different locations. Below is a sample list - if none of these are near you, simply search "(your city) + swing dance" to find a studio, group, or event in your area!

Asia

Europe

Americas

Africa

Oceania

Coded by Rachel Blackie, 2023