Frequently Asked Questions

Because some specifics change from year-to-year, answers on this page will often link to the page on the current year's web site where the answer can be found.

Q. What time do the sessions begin?
A. Found on the schedule page.

Q. How much does the whole weekend cost?
A. Found on the registration page, main column.

Q. How much do individual sessions cost?
A. Found on the registration page in the sidebar under "Attending Part Time?".

Q. Can I pay for individual sessions in advance or with a credit card?
A. Not at this time. Individual sessions must be paid for by cash or check at the door.

Q. Where is this event held?
A. Found in the main column on the Halls and Lodging Page.

Q. I've never contra danced before. Is this event good for people new to contra dance?
A. It's great for newcomers! Festival events such as Bayou Bedlam attract good dancers from all over the country. With a high percentage of good dancers relative to newcomers, it's actually easier for a beginner to get swept up into the dance and learn the figures than it is at a regular local dance where the ratio of experienced dancers to beginners is often lower. Plus newcomers get to experience how much fun contra dance can really be with a great band, a great caller, and a hundred or more dancers moving in time to the music. But be forewarned: contra dancing can be addictive, and is totally healthy for your body, mind, and spirit!

Q. I've never contra danced before. Can you tell me something about it?
A. See this page and this page.

Q. Are there motels that you recommend or have negotiated a group rate with?
A. Not at this time, although there is information and links on the Halls and Lodging page in the sidebar that will help you search for motels in the nearby zip codes.

Q. If I register and then can't come, can I get a refund?
A. Very possibly. However, refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis. Requests must be made in writing and can be emailed to BB10@hatds.org or sent to our mailing address: HATDS, P.O. Box 701235, Houston, TX 77270-1235.

Q. When was the last time caller X or band Y played at a Texas weekend?
A. Mike Voss has compiled a list of the Texas Contra Weekends and some English Country ones also. We have a web version of his document on our History page. If you have addtions or corrections to this list, please let us know at website@hatds.org and we'll share them with Mike.