2024/2025 Ball Season Past Events
Wine Harvest Ball - Saturday, October 5th 2024, 8-11 PM
Kick Off the 2024 Ball Season
Join us at Ballroom Dance Chicago on Saturday, October 5th, from 8-11 pm, for our Wine Harvest Ball – the perfect way to celebrate the end of the wine harvest and the beginning of the ball season. While Chicago might not be home to sprawling vineyards, we draw inspiration from Vienna, a city where the romantic and festive ball season (sometimes called the Fifth Season) is inextricably linked with its rich wine culture. In Vienna, vineyards gracefully fringe the city, creating a unique atmosphere where the traditions of wine and dance come together. This celebration allows us to bring a touch of that Viennese magic to Chicago, marking the start of our own ball season with refinement, good drink, community, and joy.
Event Highlights:
Foxtrot Class: Start the evening at 8 pm with a Foxtrot class, where we’ll focus on learning how to gracefully travel around the dance floor. Dance if you'd like, or sit back and enjoy the evening – the night is yours to savor. Ball season is as much about socializing as it is about dancing; it’s an occasion where everyone plays a part in creating a special magic. Each guest contributes their own unique charm, and together, we create something truly extraordinary. While this is a “dancers’” event, you don’t need to know how to dance to attend, nor is an interest in dance required. We welcome anyone who wishes to connect with others and help create an enchanting evening.
Open Social Dancing: Following the class, enjoy an evening of open social dancing to a lively mix of ballroom and swing music, perfect for our diverse dance crowd.
Wine Tasting: Bring a wine of your choosing – whether white, red, orange, rosé, or sparkling – in the $25+ price range to share. Each attendee (or couple, if you’re coming with a partner) should bring one bottle, two if you’re feeling generous. The most important thing is that it’s a wine you enjoy and are proud to share with others.
We’ll also provide tasting notes and various other materials to help guide our wine discussions and deepen our appreciation for each bottle, whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new ones. While we won’t have a blind wine tasting this time, we’ll vote on our favorite wines, with a special prize awarded to the winning bottle!
Cheese Sharing: To ensure we don’t drink on empty stomachs, we’re asking everyone to bring a cheese or two to share. Don’t worry about the details – Ballroom Dance Chicago will provide crackers, serving trays, knives, plates, and all the essentials. As is true with the wine you bring, the only thing that matters about cheese is that you like it and want to share what you like with others.
The wine and cheese-sharing portion of the evening is just as important as the dancing. It’s an opportunity to sample others’ favorites while engaging in meaningful conversations about their choices. Through shared tastes and experiences, you can discover new perspectives on what people enjoy and how they perceive different flavors. This adds a social and cultural depth to the evening, enhancing both the camaraderie and the overall ball experience. Enjoying food and drink together enriches the connections made throughout the evening.
Tickets and Event Details:
Event Details:
Date: October 5th, 2024
Time: 8-11 PM, Doors Open at 7:45 PM
Location: 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Attire: Cocktail
Ticket Prices:
Advance Purchase: $45/person
At the Door: $55/person
Age Requirement: All guests must be 21 or older
Don’t miss this opportunity to dance, sip, celebrate, and connect with others as we usher in the ball season. Secure your spot today!
New Years Eve Ball - Tuesday, December 31st 2024, 9 PM - 1 AM
Ring in the New Year with Dance, Desserts, and Connection
Tired of the usual New Year’s Eve plans? Looking for something truly special to share with your partner and create lasting memories? Join us for our New Year’s Eve Ball—a post-dinner event dedicated to dancing, connection, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Our balls are more than just gatherings; they are transformative experiences where attendees can say, “I left everything out there in the ballroom.” These events build a lasting tradition of meaningful, connected, and culturally rich community gatherings. They give everyone a sense of purpose and belonging that lingers well beyond the final note, reminding us how powerful shared experiences can be in shaping our world.
This event is designed for couples seeking a meaningful way to welcome the New Year. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting out, this evening will bring you closer to your partner and the community of dancers who join us.
The night features a huge variety of our favorite music, blending swing, quickstep, foxtrot, waltz, and more. We’ll kick off with a group dance lesson—ideal for those new to the floor—and a simultaneous Lindy Hop masterclass with Matthew Sove for more experienced dancers.
As midnight approaches, the floor will open for dancing, where you can create your own magical moments as we ring in the New Year. We’ll toast to new beginnings with nonalcoholic sparkling wine, though you’re welcome to bring your own champagne for a personal touch.
As this is an after-dinner event, we’ll be offering a coffee bar. If you’d prefer wine or beer, feel free to bring your own beverages, as this event is BYOB!
This is more than just a party; it’s a night to reconnect and celebrate together.
Event Highlights
Live Dance Floor: Experience an open dance floor with a mix of swing, quickstep, foxtrot, waltz, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this night will inspire you to move.
Dance Lessons: Start the night with a group lesson designed for beginners and a Lindy Hop masterclass led by Matthew Sove for experienced dancers. You’ll leave feeling more confident and connected.
Midnight Countdown: As the clock strikes twelve, share a special moment with your partner on the dance floor. We’ll toast with non-alcoholic sparkling wine, or bring your own champagne for a personalized celebration.
Desserts Spread by Lutz Bakery: Enjoy sweets and treats inspired by ball season in Vienna. We’ll serve Sacher Torte, apple strudel, and much more!
BYOB: While non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, guests are welcome to bring their own wine or champagne to make the evening even more special.
Intimate Setting: With only 30 couples, this event offers an exclusive and personal experience, ensuring that everyone has room to dance and connect.
Event Details
Date: December 31st, 2024
Time: 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM.
Doors open at 9:00 PM
Dance lessons begin at 9:30 PM
Dance floor opens at 10:30 PM
Dance floor wraps up at 12:30 AM
Doors close at 1:00 AM
Location: 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Attire: Formal, black tie optional
Dance classes for both new and experienced dancers
“Champagne” toast at midnight (non-alcoholic provided, but feel free to bring your own bubbly)
BYOB: Feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer (no hard liquor, please)
Cost: $199 per couple
Age Requirement: All guests must be 21 or older
Capacity: Limited to 30 couples—tickets sell out fast, so don’t delay.
Bridgerton Ball - Saturday, January 11th 2025, 8-10 PM
Join us for an evening of regency elegance at the Bridgerton Ball, where we’ll bring to life the charm and refinement of the Bridgerton era. This event offers a unique combination of Waltz and quadrille instruction, and a taste of regency-era etiquette.
Event Highlights:
Waltz Choreography: Begin the night by learning a special waltz choreography, designed for dancers of all levels. We’ll work together to create a beautiful group routine, which we’ll record and share with you. This is a rare chance to perform a coordinated waltz as a group and capture the elegance on film.
Quadrille Instruction: Explore the quadrille, a lively and elegant group dance that was a centerpiece of 18th and 19th-century ballroom culture. Performed in sets of four couples, the quadrille is a dynamic sequence of intricate figures and patterns. Dancers weave through graceful formations, exchanging partners, curtsying, and bowing, all in perfect synchronization. It’s a bit like a formal, elegant precursor to square dancing, filled with energy, charm, and interaction. Our instructors will guide you through each movement, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful and social dance.
Etiquette & Formal Manners: Throughout the evening, we’ll touch on essential regency-era etiquette, so you can move with grace and confidence, whether you’re dancing or mingling.
“Debutante” Presentation: Enjoy a quasi-debutante presentation, where select dancers will showcase the refinement of this timeless tradition and other dances.
Event Details:
Date: January 11th, 2024
Time: 8-10 PM, Doors Open at 7:45 PM
Location: 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Attire: Regency or formal attire encouraged. See below for further details.
Tickets:
Early Bird (before 01/05/2025): $75/person
In Advance (01/05/2025 and after): $90/person
Studio Members get a 35% discount
Age Requirement: All guests must be 21 or older
Capacity: Limited to 60 guests—tickets sell out fast, so don’t delay!
BYOB: Feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer (no hard liquor, please).
A Further Word On Attire:
Dress to impress in regency-inspired attire or formal wear. Think elegant, floor-length gowns, and tailored suits or tuxedos. For those who want to fully embrace the Bridgerton theme, regency dresses with empire waistlines, flowing fabrics, gloves, and delicate accessories will capture the look of the era. The charm of the period is also reflected with tailcoats, waistcoats, cravats, and polished shoes.
Formal attire is always a suitable option if regency isn’t your style. Traditional evening gowns or cocktail dresses work beautifully, or black tie or sharp suits. The goal is to create a night of timeless elegance, whether you’re dressed for a modern ballroom or a scene from Bridgerton.
For a deeper discussion about attire, read our blog about Regency and Formal attire.
Keep in mind that is more than just an evening of dancing—it’s a chance to be part of a collaborative, elegant experience. From your dance steps to your social media moment, every detail will contribute to the magic of the night. Reserve your spot today and join us for an unforgettable Bridgerton-inspired evening!
Viennese Ball - Saturday, February 1st 2025, 8-11 PM
Join us on February 1st, from 8-11 PM, as we transform our space into a tribute to Vienna’s ball season.
Each year, our studio takes clients to Vienna for Ball Season, and this event serves as a dress rehearsal for that grand experience. Whether you're preparing for Vienna or simply eager to dance the Viennese waltz, this evening is for you.
Event Highlights:
Viennese Waltz Class: Start the evening with a class designed for all levels, ensuring everyone is ready to glide across the floor with grace. Whether you’re experienced or a novice, your participation adds to the spirit of the evening.
Quadrille Class: The Fledermaus Quadrille pulls you into its whirlwind of joy the moment the music begins. Surrounded by elegantly dressed dancers, you become part of the lively rhythm, spinning, weaving, and laughing as the spirited melody of Johann Strauss fills the room. The energy is contagious—gowns swirl, partners trade places, and the playful choreography blurs the line between graceful elegance and delightful chaos, making you feel alive in every step. Think of the quadrille as an elegant square dance.
An Invitation to Your Best Self - What to Wear:
This is a formal, white/black-tie optional event (or wear our best clothes), but it’s also an opportunity to step into a version of yourself you may not always show the world. Think of your attire as a costume—not just clothing, but a portal to your royal, Viennese persona. Imagine dressing as your most elegant, gracious, and vibrant self.
When selecting your attire, choose something that makes you feel regal and inspired—something that draws out confidence, kindness, and celebration. For some, this might mean an enchanting gown with a touch of whimsy or sophistication. For others, it could be a classic tuxedo or tails with a flourish of individuality.
But this isn’t just about the fabric you wear; it’s about the energy you bring. Your “costume” is also an attitude - a decision to bring merriment, to share joy, and to enrich the experience of everyone you meet. Let your presence inspire others to embrace their own best selves, creating an elevated experience where the whole room vibrates with intentionality and grace.
Dress not only for yourself but for the shared story we’ll create together. Bring your most radiant spirit, and let’s enjoy an evening that none of us will soon forget.Open Social Dancing: Following the classes, the night will be alive with the rhythms of Viennese waltz, English waltz, foxtrot, quickstep, and swing. Every dance, every conversation, and every gesture contributes to the collective elegance of the evening.
Coffee: Vienna is renowned for its coffee, so we’ll feature a beautiful collection of brews to keep you refreshed and ready to dance.
Tickets and Event Details:
Date: February 1st, 2024
Time: 8-11 PM, Doors Open at 7:30 PM.
Location: 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Attire: Step into your finest attire and embody your most vibrant, joyful self, as we come together to create a night of unforgettable moments. Formal, white/black tie optional.
Tickets:
In Advance: $50/person for classes and social
At the Door: $60/person
Age Requirement: All guests must be 21 or older
Capacity: Limited to 60 people—tickets sell out fast, so don’t delay!
BYOB: Feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer (no hard liquor, please)
This event isn’t just a gathering; it’s a collaborative experience where everyone plays a role in creating a magical night. Through our dancing, conversation, attire, and demeanor, we weave what becomes an unforgettable evening. Secure your spot today and become a part of something truly special.
Valentine's Day Ball - February 14th 2025, 7:30-10 PM
Valentine’s Day Ball: An Evening of Connection and Romance
Part of the Chicago Ball Season
This Valentine’s Day, step into a night of elegance, romance, and deeper connection at the Valentine’s Day Ball. Transforming Ballroom Dance Chicago into a sanctuary of love, we invite you to an evening where dance becomes the ultimate expression of your bond. This is more than just a dance class—it’s a full experience designed to help you reconnect and celebrate your relationship in a truly meaningful way.
A Night of Romance and Connection
Leave behind the usual Valentine’s Day routine and immerse yourself in a world where every detail is crafted to bring you closer. From the moment you arrive, our evening is dedicated to helping you rediscover the joy of being fully present with your loved one. Whether you’re learning a new dance together or simply enjoying the ambiance, this night is about rekindling the spark that brought you together.
Dance Your Way Through the Night
The Valentine’s Day Ball offers two dance classes, each providing a unique opportunity to connect through movement:
Salsa at 7:30 PM: Ignite your passion with the fiery rhythms of Salsa, perfect for adding a touch of spice to your evening.
Ballroom at 8:30 PM: Embrace the timelessness of Ballroom dance, a graceful way to end the night in each other’s arms.
Open Dancing: After each class and during the final hour, enjoy open dancing where you can choose to relax, watch, or continue dancing at your own pace.
Mini-Private Lessons: Our instructors will be available during the open dancing segments to offer personalized guidance, turning these moments into mini-private lessons tailored to you and your partner.
Whether you’re seasoned dancers or taking your first steps together, our expert instructors will ensure you leave with not just new moves, but a deeper connection.
Non-Alcoholic Bubbly
Your evening begins with a warm welcome and a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. We welcome you to bring your favorite bottle (BYOB) to toast your love throughout the evening. Feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer (no hard liquor, please) to enhance your celebration!
Event Details
Date: February 14th, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Doors open at 7:15 PM (Salsa from 7:30-8:00 PM and Ballroom from 8:30-9:00 PM, open dancing between classes and from 9:00-10:00 PM)
Location: Ballroom Dance Chicago, 4039B N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL 60613
Cost: $199 per couple
Age Requirement: All guests must be 21 or older
Parking and Transport: Ample free parking and accessible public transportation (Irving Park Brown Line, #80 bus, #9 bus, #50 bus)
Reserve Your Place Now
This Valentine’s Day, go beyond the ordinary. Join us at the Valentine’s Day Ball, part of the Chicago Ball Season, and let dance be the vehicle that brings you closer to your loved one. Make this night a celebration of your connection—one that you’ll cherish long after the last dance.
Book your spot today (tickets sell out quickly) and step into a night of romance, rhythm, and unforgettable connection.
Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball - Tuesday, March 4th 2025, 7-9 PM
Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball: The Grand Finale of Chicago Ball Season
The grand finale of Chicago Ball Season, our Mardi Gras MasqueradeBall, brings together the rich traditions of Vienna and New Orleans for one extraordinary night of learning, dancing, and celebration. In Vienna, Mardi Gras marks the final day of ball season, and we’re honoring that tradition right here in Chicago with an event that’s as unique as our city.
While hosting a ball on a Tuesday might seem unconventional, there’s something magical about indulging in an extraordinary event during the week. Over the years, we've found that many people embrace the chance to break up their routine with an elegant escape - a chance to step out of everyday life and into a world of music, movement, and masked mystery.
But this isn’t just any party—it’s an immersive learning experience, offering a deeper understanding of Mardi Gras traditions, New Orleans dance culture, and the European influences that shaped them.
A Night of Dance, History & Celebration
Our Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball is designed as a perfect blend of education, practice, and social connection, all wrapped in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
New Orleans Jitterbug Class (7:00 - 7:30 PM) – We begin with a high-energy swing dance lesson that reflects the lively spirit of New Orleans social dance culture. You’ll learn classic moves from the New Orleans Jitterbug, a style deeply influenced by jazz, blues, and the city’s vibrant street dancing traditions.
Fledermaus Quadrille Class (8:00 - 8:30 PM) – Later, we shift gears to explore the grandeur of European ballroom dance with a class on the Fledermaus Quadrille—a lively, structured group dance that has been a staple of Viennese balls for centuries. Led by an instructor, this dance is a fun, interactive way to engage with othersand experience a key part of traditional ball culture.
Between and after lessons, enjoy open dancing where you can practice what you've learned, refine your technique, and socialize in an elegant setting.
The History & Significance of Mardi Gras Balls
Mardi Gras has long been synonymous with masked balls, music, and revelry, but its roots run deep into history. The tradition of Mardi Gras masquerade balls dates back to medieval Europe, where they were grand affairs held by the aristocracy. When French settlers brought these traditions to Louisiana, they blended with local culture, evolving into New Orleans’ famous Mardi Gras celebrations, which now combine elements of French, Spanish, and African influences.
These balls weren’t just about entertainment—they were also exclusive social events where attendees practiced etiquette, refined their dance skills, and engaged in a time-honored tradition of elegant revelry. Our Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball pays homage to this rich history, blending the lively energy of New Orleans with the refined elegance of Vienna for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Ball Details:
Date: Mardi Gras (Tuesday, March 5th)
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Doors Open at 6:45 PM
Two dance classes: New Orleans Swing from 7 - 7:30 PM and Fledermaus Quadrille from 8 - 8:30 PM.
Open dancing between and after dance classes.
Tickets: $50 per person in advance, $60 at the door
Age Requirement: all participants must be 21 years old.
Attire: Formal/Black Tie Optional, but since this is a masquerade ball, the only requirement is that you wear a mask (think decorative, not COVID).
BYOB: Bring your favorite beverage to enjoy throughout the evening (beer and wine only, no liquor please).
Come learn a little, dance a little, and make lasting memories in a night of education, elegance, and celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-time guest, this is the perfect way to close out Chicago Ball Season with flair.