Quadrille Ball

Ball season is about more than just dancing—it’s about shared experiences, collective joy, and the magic of moving together. Following the Harvest Ball, where we shared food and drink in celebration of the season, we now take that same spirit of community and togetherness to the dance floor at the Quadrille Ball.

The quadrille is unlike any other ballroom dance. While you still dance with a partner, the magic of the quadrille lies in dancing with the entire room—moving in patterns, weaving in and out of formations, laughing as you try to keep up, and ultimately becoming part of something bigger than yourself.

For those new to the Fledermaus Quadrille, this is your chance to learn it from the ground up in a setting designed for fun, camaraderie, and excitement. If you’ve ever been at a ball and watched others dive into this energetic, theatrical dance, wondering how they know what to do—this is your chance to join in. By the time the night is over, you’ll be ready to step confidently onto the floor at every ball to come.

For those who have danced the quadrille before, this is an opportunity to perfect your timing, refine your style, and enjoy the dance in its full glory.

But most of all, this ball is about celebrating the holiday season together—a time of gathering, connection, and shared joy.

What is the Fledermaus Quadrille?

The Fledermaus Quadrille is one of the most famous and exhilarating group dances of the Viennese ball season. It is set to the lively and theatrical music of Johann Strauss II, composed for his operetta Die Fledermaus (The Bat), which premiered in 1874.

Unlike the waltz or foxtrot, the quadrille is not a partner dance in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s a structured, playful, and sometimes chaotic dance performed in groups of four couples. With marches, turns, weaving figures, and dramatic arm movements, the quadrille blends precision with spontaneity—often ending in delighted confusion as dancers scramble to keep up with the ever-increasing tempo.

The Fledermaus Quadrille, in particular, is known for its joyful energy and theatrical flair. In Vienna, it is performed at nearly every ball of the season, often as a midnight tradition, bringing the entire ballroom together for one of the most anticipated moments of the night.

The Evening’s Schedule:

• Fledermaus Quadrille Class (Section 2) – We continue our ball season tradition by learning the second section of the Fledermaus Quadrille. Whether you’re new to the dance or have already mastered Section 1 at the Harvest Ball, this class will prepare you for the next exhilarating figures of the quadrille.

• Social Dancing – Between classes, enjoy an open dance floor with a mix of ballroom, swing, and festive selections to keep the night lively.

• Fledermaus Quadrille Class (Section 3) – Now that we’ve built confidence, we’ll move into Section 3 of the quadrille, adding even more intricate patterns, quick turns, and playful energy to the dance.

• More Social Dancing – After the final class, the floor is yours! Enjoy more dancing, conversation, and celebration as the night continues.

This ball is not just about learning steps—it’s about laughing, meeting new people, and sharing in the excitement of a dance that has brought people together for generations.

Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or brand new to the ballroom, the Quadrille Ball is your chance to be part of something extraordinary.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025

• Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Location: Ballroom Dance Chicago | 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL

• Price: $80/person

• Age Requirement: 21+

• Attire: Formal – Black tie or white tie preferred, but we’re not strict. Simply wear your best and be ready to celebrate in style.

Host or Publisher Ballroom Dance Chicago