Why not spend Valentine's Day doing something unique and fun? Contra Dancing at Murphysboro Community Center on Friday night welcomes couples of any age. Even without a partner, the atmosphere's pleasurable and welcoming nature has a place for couples as well as singles.

Join Joe Surdyk, organizer of the Valentine's Day dance, as he calls out various types of dances that leave the people twirling about and exchanging partners again and again. A costume is not necessary and lack of experience is not a problem. Surdyk also welcomes children as long as an adult accompanies them. Admission is only $4.

Contra dancing originated in America through the roots of English "longways," the Irish "crossroad" and the Scottish "reels." The English and Scottish brought the intensity of developed techniques and exactness of steps while the Irish added their skill in music.

Contras have been popular since the 17th century and still appeal to the public today. Even the prestigious presidential gatherings only allowed the contra dances, quadrilles and waltzes onto the dance floor from Washington to Millard Fillmore.

The dances begin with two lines of people facing each other with each person partnered up by the person across from him or her, and then the dance extends further with moves such as the "do-si-do" and "gypsy." Generally, 10 to 12 couples occupy the dance floor at any given time. Sound complicated? Joe Surdyk said not to worry.

"Each dance we do is walked through twice," he said.

Music by Banjovi and friends is provided, too. But don't get confused. This Banjovi won't be playing rock like the similarly spelled rock superstar, Bonjovi. This band plays old fiddle tunes while incorporating a banjo, guitar, and mandolin.

On a regular basis, Surdyk hosts the dances. Once a month, on every second Friday, the group, about 20-30 people, meets to kick back, have fun and ßdance freely. And oftentimes, the fun doesn't stop. The group will go out to socialize after the dancing has ended.

Don't be shy and join the Friends of Traditional Music and Dance in an old time Contra Dance celebration this Valentine's Day.