Based at the University of Pennsylvania as a non-profit student group, UPtown Swing was established to promote and preserve Swing Dancing in and around the mid-Atlantic region. We welcome beginners as well as experienced dancers, and offer a free beginner swing lesson before each dance. No partners or experience required! You can see many kinds of swing dancing at our events, including Lindy Hop, Balboa, East Coast, Shag, and Blues.

And now for a little history - Billed as America's "true national folk dance" by Life magazine, Lindy Hop has its origins in the great Harlem Ballrooms of the 1920s. The movies "Hellzapoppin" and "Groovie Movie" contain examples of this dynamic and energetic dance. Lindy Hop is rich in history and its popularity parallels the rise and fall of the Big Band Era. Fortunately for us, swing is still alive and well around the country. Almost every city has a swing scene with local venues and bands, and there are many national events each year that celebrate this great dance.

Email UPtown@uptownswing.org to receive weekly updates on club activities (We do not share or sell our list).