Ceilidh Season: in my opinion, the best time to be a student in Edinburgh and an important initiation for anyone who is yet to attend one of these infamous dances. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, someone who has attended just a few of the most chaotic and least structured ceilidhs in the world in the hall of Stramash, or a complete beginner, this article will provide everything you need to know to get you ready for this ceilidh season.
Starting off with the universally acknowledged most important aspect of any event: what to wear. While dress codes can range from anything from jeans and a t-shirt to black tie, any event you attend will most likely provide a dress code so you can avoid that awkward moment where your jeans clash with the tuxedos in the room.
The Student will be hosting its own ceilidh in The Counting House on Monday 24 November so get ready to whip out your best dress. Personally, I’m always a promoter of formal dress, and there’s not many occasions that I have the excuse to put on my dresses that I’d convince myself I would get good wear out of to excuse the price. Charity shops, St James Quarter, and even friends’ wardrobes are always excellent places to find dresses, skirts, tops and suits. Wear whatever you’re comfortable in, but make sure it is practical to be swung about.
For those of you who have never attended a ceilidh, do not fret, since most university run ceilidhs will be led by a band who will be able to speak you through every step of the routine and there will be a few practices before the next dance really kicks off. Most dances are in partners and small groups, moving around the room and changing partners so be prepared to touch lots of slightly sweaty hands before the evening is done. Popular dances include the Circassian Circle, Virginia wheel and everyone’s favourite Strip the Willow most commonly to end the evening.
I would highly recommend all to get involved. There’s nothing more fun than the exhilaration after dancing and possibly stepping on a few toes along the way. Check any societies’ Instagram pages and they’ll be guaranteed to have an event on this festive season. But most importantly get yourself to the Counting House on 24 November to join us for what will be sure to be a great night.
Image via The Student