Two big black X’s get etched onto the backs of my hands in black permanent marker as the sounds of an acoustic guitar rings out from the stage. Ten dollars and a few steps later, I am standing on the dance floor watching those around me stomp their cowboy boots in time with the music. I watch what they are doing until I can pick up the line dance particular to the song the band is playing. Once the music comes to a close, I walk to a table for a break— breathless and elated at the sense of belonging I feel here.
The Grizzly Rose—located just north of downtown Denver off of I-25—is a country dancing hall and saloon that hosts weekly events and concerts for everyone from the most enthusiastic cowboy to the newest line dancing beginner. There are some age restrictions on a by-event basis, but many events are offered for both those that are 21 and over, as well as 18 and over.
For 21 and over:
- Wednesday nights are NO COVER with free couples dancing lessons at 7 p.m. Hours are 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.
- Thursday nights are ladies’ nights, with a $10 cover, but the women can drink free well and draft drinks from 8-12 p.m. Hours are 6 p.m to 2 a.m.
- Friday is concert night! You must buy tickets online beforehand, with the list of who’s playing located on the Grizzly Rose website. Ticket prices vary from week to week, and most shows start at 8 p.m. Hours are 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
- Saturday nights have a $10 cover for an all-out country dancing party! Hours are 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
- Sunday nights are family nights with live music, drinks, and a $10 cover. There’s a free line dancing class at 7 p.m as well. Hours are 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.
For 18 to 20:
- Friday night concert nights are available to this age group, though they must stay in the concert area for the night. You must buy tickets online beforehand, with the list of who’s playing located on the Grizzly Rose website. See above in the 21 and over section for more details.
- Sunday nights are family night, with a $10 cover, live music, and some DJ’d music as well. You will be asked to show ID and then have black X’s drawn on your hands so they know not to let you order drinks from the bar. Have a fun time line dancing and swing dancing with your friends, or meeting new people. Hours are 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.
For under 18:
- Sunday nights are family night, and kids ten and under get in for free. Otherwise, there’s a $10 cover. Enjoy the live and DJ’d music, play some of the arcade games, or even take a ride on the mechanical bull! Hours are 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.
First time? Here are some tips for those who are nervous about dancing on their first visit!
- Dress for the occasion. While you do not have to have cowboys boots or a flannel shirt, being in country attire can help you feel like you belong at the Grizzly Rose. Jeans are a must and some kind of shoes that you can slide in are helpful for this kind of dancing. A cropped shirt or something flannel will help you fit in with the aesthetic.
- Do not carry a lot with you. Unless you have a friend who is not going to want to dance and would be willing to hold the group’s purses and jackets for the whole night, bring as little with you as possible. For example, if it will not fit in your jean pockets or tucked inside your boots, it is best to leave it in the car. All you will need is some cash or a card to pay for the cover and/or drinks, your ID and your phone to take pictures or videos of the dancing!
- Ask someone to dance. Don’t be afraid to get out on the dance floor and try it out. With line dances, it’s easy to watch those around you and pick up on the pattern of moves (trust me, you will not be the only one out there who isn’t sure of how to do the line dance- there’s a lot of them). As for swing dancing and two-stepping, if you see someone who looks like they know what they’re doing, ask them to dance with you! If you’re too uncomfortable dancing with a stranger, ask them to teach you and your friends some moves so you can all practice together.
For more information, check out the Grizzly Rose Saloon and Concert Hall here.
