The evening is divided into maybe 9-12 dances, with a break in the middle. By convention, dancers dance with a different partner for each dance. Hence, you do not need to bring a partner in order to have someone to dance with. This gives beginners an opportunity to dance with experienced dancers, making Contra Dancing easy to learn. Many Contra Dances hold a beginners workshop before the dance.
Most dances also provide refreshments.
All Contra Dances are held in a smoke free and alcohol free environment. Most dances run three hours, including the break. The beginners session preceeds the dance. Contra dancing is lively so dress comfortably. Many dance locations are not air conditioned, so wear light clothing in the summer.