Ring in the New Year this Saturday with a Community Contra Dance at the warm and fuzzy Merville Hall, just down the road from Campbell River and up the track from Courtenay.

The Funtime Fiddlers will be playing the fiddle tunes for your dancing pleasure while circumforaneous caller, June Cannon, will get you lined up and laughing.

As in the past, there will be a Contra Dance workshop right before the dance. From 6:45 to 7:15 p.m., Cannon will teach the basic moves, the cool moves and the etiquette which will help you to whirl about the floor with the pros. Of course, the workshop is free of charge.

At 7:30 p.m., as if on cue, the Funtime Fiddlers will peel off the first fiddle tunes and the dancing begins. Single dancers are hugely welcome as they can pair up with anyone during the Contras, and Contra sets last about 15 to 20 minutes per dance.

There will also be waltzes and reels, jigs and swing, schottisches and foxtrots for your enjoyment in-between the called Contra dances. This way, there is a dance for everyone.

There will be a lively set played by some hotshot young fiddlers, and maybe even a professional who can dish up a sizzling solo.

Want to take a breather? Then have a seat and sip a beverage or nibble on a snack.

With subdued lighting and craftily arranged tables, the fiddle club tries to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that you can thoroughly enjoy and participate in.

Doors open at 7, dance starts at 7:30 p.m.

Cost is $10/adults, $5/youth, and you can come as a family for $22. Free workshop starts at 6:45.

For more information, call 250-339-4249.

— Funtime Fiddlers