Rhythm & Refinement: A Black History Celebration of Dance & Dandyism

Rhythm & Refinement: The Dandy Gala

A Black History Celebration of Dance & Dandyism

Presented by Southern Hospitality Swing

📅 Saturday, February 21, 2026

An Immersive Day-to-Night Cultural Experience

Rhythm & Refinement: The Dandy Gala is a full-day celebration honoring the rich intersection of Black dandyism, social dance, music, and cultural storytelling. This experience invites you to move, dress, and celebrate with intention—where elegance is expressive and dance is a living archive of Black history.

Morning Dance Workshop

Start the day with a dynamic, immersive workshop featuring three Black social dance styles, each rooted in regional tradition, musicality, and cultural expression:

• DFW Swingout – expressive, rhythmic, and community-driven
• Detroit Ballroom – smooth, elegant, and deeply musical
• Chicago Stepping – refined footwork and partnered sophistication

Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or new to social dance, this workshop offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and experience Black dance culture across generations and regions.

The Dandy Gala (Evening Celebration)

As evening falls, step into an elevated social dance experience where fashion meets movement.

Black Dandyism has long served as a form of resistance, pride, and self-definition. From Harlem Renaissance ballrooms to jook joints and social clubs, Black communities have used style and dance as declarations of dignity, creativity, and joy. At The Dandy Gala, we honor this legacy—where dance floors become runways and movement becomes language.

🎶 Music by DJ Phenom

Expect a thoughtfully curated soundtrack that bridges eras, honors tradition, and keeps the dance floor alive all night.

💃🏾 Featured Performances

Enjoy three special performances throughout the evening, each highlighting Black history, cultural storytelling, and the powerful connection between music, movement, and style.

🎩 Dapper Dan & Dapper Dame Contest

Come dressed to impress. Guests are invited to participate in our Dapper Dan & Dapper Dame Contest, celebrating the most inspired dandy look of the night—where creativity, elegance, and individuality take center stage.

Dinner Included 🍽️

Your evening experience includes dinner as part of your gala ticket, thoughtfully prepared to complement the elegance of the night. Vegetarian options will be available, ensuring all guests can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while celebrating dance, culture, and refined style.

Dress Code

Semi-formal with Dandy Inspiration

Think elevated, expressive, and intentional. Whether classic or modern, subtle or bold—your look should reflect the spirit of Black dandyism and personal flair.

Why Attend

• Celebrate Black history through dance, fashion, and music.

• Experience multiple regional Black social dance styles in one day
• Enjoy an elegant, culturally rich evening of movement and connection
• Honor tradition while creating new memories on the dance floor

🎟 Tickets & Details

Visit 👉 www.southernhospitalityswing.com

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Host or Publisher Queen City Dance Collective