The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts will host its annual Community Barn Dance on Thursday, August 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the Bascom campus at 323 Franklin Road.
Jackson Grimm’s Old Time Machine will provide live music, and old-time country dance caller Harrison Keely will guide dancers of all experience levels through traditional square dances and reels.
Square dancing has long been part of life on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Helen’s Barn, at the corner of Main and 1st Streets, hosted more than 50 summers of music and dance from 1932 through 1984.
The Community Barn Dance carries that tradition forward, gathering neighbors and first-time visitors for an evening of Appalachian music, movement, and shared celebration.
This event is another effort by The Bascom to create visual art experiences that inspire and empower individuals and communities through seeing, thinking, and doing.
Since 1985, The Bascom has served the Highlands–Cashiers Plateau as a place where people come together through the visual arts — offering free exhibitions, hands-on education, and year-round programs that welcome more than 24,000 visitors annually.
This year’s event
Next week, the campus welcomes two local food vendors for the evening. The Secret Garden, the market café tucked off Oak Street in downtown Highlands, will offer sandwiches and other prepared items for purchase. M’s Ice Cream, based in Franklin, will serve shaved ice and ice cream from its trailer throughout the event.
Free popcorn will be available, and a donation bar will be open for guests.
“This is one of the easiest ways to get to know The Bascom. No dance experience is needed. Harrison walks everyone through the steps, so everyone can join in. We love building community through these shared experiences,” said Priscilla Galloway, The Bascom’s Community Engagement manager.
Advance registration is encouraged. Tickets are available at thebascom.org, by calling 828.526.4949 or at the door.
Event Details
Community Barn Dance
Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Location: The Bascom, 323 Franklin Road, Highlands, NC 28741
Admission: $10 general admission; free for children 12 and under
Registration: thebascom.org | 828.526.4949
