Over a hundred dancers, dressed in their fanciest attire, gathered at the Native Sons Hall to celebrate the history of a long-standing organization.

The Comox Valley Ocean Waves Square Dance Club marked its 70th anniversary in the community on the afternoon of April 7, hosting a wide variety of different dances.

Despite this practice waning in popularity over the years, as explained by club chair Norma Hutchings, she remained delighted to see attendance surpassing the 100-person mark, attracting over 12 clubs from across the Island and beyond.

Hutchings highlighted that the beauty of square dancing lies in its ability to bring people together.

鈥�(Square dancing is) commonly known as friendship and music,鈥� Hutchings said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a very good activity for your brain because you鈥檙e thinking of the moves鈥� which just makes it pleasant and fun.鈥�

Among the dancers was Cathy Moreau, 80, the club鈥檚 longest participating member, who joined in the early 鈥�80s. For her, square dancing has been a gateway to a healthy lifestyle and lasting friendships.

鈥淚鈥檝e had so much fun over the years and (I鈥檝e) been to many conventions and festivals across Canada and in one of the (U.S.,)鈥� said Moreau.

To join or learn more about the Comox Valley Ocean Waves Square Dance Club visit the .

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