The group meets in Demonstration Hall every week, offering both dance lessons and times for open dance. The lessons are open to anyone of any major and are completely free of charge. It’s not required to attend with a partner.

This week, students learned the Shim Sham and were encouraged to wear costumes for a Halloween costume contest.

Society Treasurer Scott Rice said anyone is welcome, even those with no experience — there’s a lesson for more experienced swing dancers at 7:30 p.m. with a beginner’s lesson following at 8:15 p.m.

“We usually have a good turnout, and I’d say it’s about two-thirds regulars and a third new faces each week,” Rice said. “We offer the lessons every week, but we typically hold themed dances around holidays like Halloween and Christmas, or we’ll have a farewell dance at the end of the year.”

Rice was part of the Society in 1998 while completing his undergraduate degree and eventually found his way back as an electrical engineering doctoral student.

“It doesn’t matter if you don’t have any experience,” Rice said. “Anyone can jump in and have fun.”

International relations senior Teresa Dettloff only has attended a few open dances but said she’s enjoyed her time so far.

“I come to the beginners’ lessons,” Dettloff said. “It’s just fun to get out and it’s a great chance to meet new people.”

Other attendees, such as computer engineering senior Brian Wirsing, have been dancing with the Swing Society for much longer — Wirsing said he first discovered the group at Sparticipation and has been swing dancing for three years.

“I’m drawn to the technical nature of swing dancing,” Wirsing said. “There’s something really satisfying about being able to perfect a skill.”