Anytime you’re at The Forks it’s hard not to notice all the great events happening. It is the hub of summer activity in Winnipeg! Everyone knows about the Canada Summer Games and Interstellar Rodeo. But did you know that there are many classes, lessons and tours happening every day at The Forks? I recently went out of my comfort zone and tried one of the classes I never thought I would do — and it was so much fun!
Swing dancing! Now, my dancing skills are very, very
limited. I truly do not know my left from my right. I’m more of a swaying
side to side dancer. Any sort of organized moves always leave me confused and
giggling. (Step aerobics are IMPOSSIBLE.)
But, when I found out my husband was an avid swing dancer in the late
90s and won competitions (?!) I pretty much had to try a class just to see his
moves!
We decided to make a full night of it. We took the water bus from
the Hugo Docks. With a boat arriving every 15 minutes it’s easy to just show
up knowing a boat will arrive soon. Travelling to The Forks by boat is pretty
magical. The wind in your hair while you shuttle along the river on a hot
summer night feels so good. And, being out on the river always offers a
fresh perspective to the city. At $3.50 each way, you have to try it out. It’s
cheaper than parking! Also: bikes are permitted on the boat. So, if you’re
not within walking distance to one of the docks you could ride over and bring
your bike to The Forks. A whole new way to park and ride!
Before our our lessons we zipped into The Common for a glass of
wine. Every time I sit at the bar at The Common, I always meet the most
interesting people. It is the best spot to strike up a conversation with
visitors to Winnipeg. I have made friends from all around the world at this
bar. I may have even coaxed a few of them to join me for skating lessons this
past winter! I almost convinced this guy to join us for dancing! (he was already committed to other plans)
After a quick drink we made our way over to the canopy for our
lessons! We joined a group of about 30 people of all ages. I immediately was so
excited.
The "Swinging at Sunset" dance lessons happen every Tuesday at 7PM under the canopy. Lessons are
free, you just show up! No partner needed. They have the music, the instructors
and the fun! Our instructor Emily gave basic simple instructions to start. We
stood in a circle and she slowly and clearly demonstrated the triple step and
the rock step. Then we’d practice with our partners for a bit
before adding to the moves. We even made it to the ‘turn’
level! It was quite easy to learn despite my directional challenges.
Then, after learning the moves, we’d switch partners!
So fun. Bob, the super dancer gracefully lead his partners around and around.
Me? I laughed and stumbled with my partners. The moves weren’t
as precise - but they were fun! When else would I have an opportunity to
connect with a tie dyed t-shirt wearing 20 something year old? Or meet Dee, the
former 80s Blue Bomber cheerleader. It was a great vibe and so energizing to be
surrounded by people who just wanted to dance and have fun.
After about 30 minutes of lessons it was all freestyle swing
dancing! Swing music is so happy. We galloped around under the canopy swinging
around. Bob confidently swung me in and out, turning me this way and that way,
it was hilarious. It’s a pretty excellent way to spend a
summer evening. I legitimately learned a few dance moves too!
I’ve only begun to scratch the surface
of what community programs The Forks offers. From the hardcore fitness go-ers
to senior fitness classes to skateboarding lessons - there is something for
everybody. If swing dancing isn’t your thing, here’s
a list of all the active community events that you can try out this month at
The Forks:
Parent and child fitness classes Fit 4 Two
Last year I did a November Project workout and blogged about it here.
And I received tips from Frances, the 90 year old superstar of the I AM Fitness
classes for seniors.
Let’s go play outside at The Forks! Can’t
wait to see you there!
Drum is a magical instrument. It can easily sweeps down an audience with its powerful, inspiring rhythm. Visit our blog. Drum Lessons WinnipegThank you! It is very beneficial for you really. We give the students a great opportunity to practice along with a band.
ReplyDeleteA fascinating discussion is worth comment. I think that you should write more on this subject matter, it may not be a taboo matter but usually people do not talk about such subjects. To the next! Best wishes!! Hotel Frankfurt-Oder
ReplyDeleteMy past has not defined me, destroyed me, deterred me, or defeated me; it has only strengthened me. cara menghilangkan psoriasis di kulit kepala
ReplyDeleteJust a smiling visitor here to share the love (:, btw great style and design. “The price one pays for pursuing a profession, or calling, is an intimate knowledge of its ugly side.” by James Arthur Baldwin. Sheffield Pizza Takeaway
ReplyDelete