STEP OUT James Brown once said that any problem in the world can be solved by dancing. So this seems like a particularly good time to slip on the footwear of your choice and start practicing those fancy steps—whether they be of the boot-scootin’, foot-stomping, or smooth-sashaying variety. In addition to the many statewide Cinco de Mayo parties, where street dances are almost always part of the revelry, the following celebrations are as fun for the serious dancer as for those who prefer to watch the action while tapping their two left feet.
Cloggers’ Showcase (May 2 and 3): At this year’s fifteenth annual affair more than four hundred cloggers from Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma perform the high-energy American folk dance (done in special shoes with laces) at San Antonio’s outdoor Arneson River Theater.
Friday Night Fandango (May 9 and 23): Swing your lass around the well-worn hardwood floor at Luckenbach’s legendary dance hall.
Texas Natural and Western Swing Festival (May 17): Two-step over to San Marcos’ historic courthouse square for a day of concerts by performers including the Texas Pioneers, Jack Rowe and the McBay Brothers, and the Texas Playboy Reunion. Then, in the evening, head down to the banks of the San Marcos River, where a big deck will be set up for dancers to move to the sounds of Floyd Domino, Paul Glasse, Bob Boatright, Cindy Cashdollar, and others.
National Polka Festival (May 23-25): Ennis’ thirty-seventh annual festival celebrates Texas’ Czech heritage with food, authentic costumes, a parade, and music by Joe Nichols, Brave Combo, and dozens of polka bands.
