The North Berkshire Community Contra Dance will hold its monthly dance on Saturday, July 8, with friendly high-energy dancing to caller Peter Stix and live music from Berkshire musicians Tony Pisano, Eric Buddington, Butch DeGiorgis, Seamus Connor and Doone MacKay.

Contra dancing is the contemporary face of a living tradition. Both the dance and its music can be traced to roots in 17th century England, France, and Scotland, but have been vigorously mixed and remixed in New England and nearby regions since. The music is live, the dances are taught, and anyone is welcome, with or without a partner — people change partners fluidly for each dance.

Peter Stix will call (teach) all dances, starting the evening with easy dances friendly to newcomers and families with children. The caller teaches new moves and skills as needed, and everyone is welcome. Come alone or with friends.

Many of the band have played together at dances and jams around the county for a generation — locals may recognize them from the dance floor and informal Saturday morning music at Mass MoCA. Tony Pisano on accordion joins Eric Buddington and Doone MacKay on fiddle, Butch DeGiorgis on mandolin and penny whistle and Seamus Connor on guitar.

The dance will run 7:30 to 10 p.m. in the Community Hall of the First Congregational Church. 906 Main St., Williamstown. Admission is pay-as-you-can, $12 – $20 suggested, and barter (especially help with cleanup) is also welcome.

Covid Policy: NBCD continues to require masking for this July 8 dance — because contra dance isn’t made to social distance. No matter your partner, you’ll wind up dancing with everyone in the room. (Having a spare mask to change into can help with comfort when dancing in warm weather.)