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State PrideNeed to Know

Learn The Rhythm and Steps of North Carolina’s Official Popular Dance, The Shag, With The Local Clubs

Published Mar 22, 2024

Written by 

Carolyn Harmon

The official dances of North Carolina are The Shag and Clogging. Yes — the Tar Heel State is one of the few with two: The Shag is the official popular dance and Clogging is the official folk dance passed by the General Assembly in 2005. They were chosen because of their entertainment value to the audience and those doing the dancing. If you're looking for a fun activity and a reason to go out, there's something about The Shag that might also bring some new friends into your life. Here are some local shag clubs and where they meet.

1. Moore Area Shag Society

A couple dances together in a lively social setting, surrounded by others enjoying the music and atmosphere.
Moore Area Shag Society

MASS is a social Shag dance club based in Aberdeen with dances taking place the first Saturday of each month from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Down Memory Lane. A different DJ is featured or sometimes the club members invite a popular beach music band. The Moore Area Shag Society website offers more information.

2. Raleigh Shag Club

A couple dances at a shag lesson event, with a banner in the background announcing the class details.
Raleigh Shag Club/Facebook

You are invited to this club's monthly outings at TJ's Night Life. Find the next outing on the Raleigh Shag Club website.

Usually, folks help you learn the steps for free, which is one reason we seek these clubs out.

Two people dance on a wooden floor in a lively venue, with others enjoying the atmosphere in the background.
Raleigh Shag Club/Facebook

And don't worry - you are not the only one who is new at these moves. But before long, you'll blend right in!

3. Charlotte Shag Club

A lively dance floor with people enjoying a night out, dressed in casual attire and dancing to music.
Charlotte Shag Club/Facebook

This group meets on Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. at Lynn's Dance Club. See other Charlotte Shag Club photos on the Facebook page.

4. Carolina Shag Club

A group of people line dancing in a lively venue with colorful lights and a festive atmosphere.
Carolina Shag-Club/Facebook

Group shag lessons are offered each Wednesday with beginner classes starting at 6:00 p.m. and intermediate at 6:40 at SpareTime in Greenville. The DJ starts playing at 7:15 when you'll be ready to dance the night away. Read all about it on the Carolina Shag Club website.

5. Lake Tillery Shag Club

A group of people dancing in a spacious venue with a rustic interior, enjoying a lively event.
Lake Tillery Shag Club/Facebook

These fun dancers meet once a month at Los Jacubes Family Mexican Restaurant in Oakboro. Follow the posts on the Lake Tillery Shag Club Facebook page.

The official dance in North Carolina is easy to learn. Discover more about this lively dance on the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs website. Keep on dancing with live music at Sims Country BBQ in Granite Falls. And if you find yourself on the road, reserve a room on Booking.com.

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