The various elements of our Scottish culture, particularly the Scottish dancing component, traveled to the island of Cape Breton with the new settlers. It is documented that early dancers taught dancing in many of the communities such as Judique, Creignish, Broadcove and MacKinnon's Brook. Square dancing is practiced in many other cultures but has taken on a unique flavor in Cape Breton.
Opinions differ as to how square dancing evolved in Cape Breton.
Others say it was introduced by the Acadians who settled in the surrounding areas. Whatever the origin, its form today is recognized as truly Cape Breton. In some communities, there are 4 figures instead of 3 or there are 2 reel figures and 1 jig instead of 2 jigs and 1 reel figure. Often these different figure combinations are named after the community in which they are danced. Inverness, Baddeck, Iona, Sydney and Margaree sets are danced in their respective areas.