La Petite Social is a West Coast Swing event series in Little Rock, Arkansas, designed to create fun, welcoming opportunities to learn, dance, and connect.
MISSION
La Petite Social creates welcoming West Coast Swing events that give people in Little Rock opportunities to learn, dance, and connect.
Through beginner-friendly instruction and social dancing, we hope to introduce more people to West Coast Swing while supporting interest in the local dance scene.
VISION
To help make Little Rock a city where more people discover, enjoy, and connect through West Coast Swing social dancing.
OUR PROMISE
You don’t have to be good.
You don’t need a partner.
You don’t need experience.
You don’t need to know anyone.
Just show up. We’ll help you get started
ALL THE QUESTIONS…
What is La Petite Social?
La Petite Social is a community initiative that introduces people to West Coast Swing through welcoming social dance events held throughout Little Rock. Our signature event takes place each year during the Downtown Food Truck Festival, and throughout the year we host smaller POP-UP socials in locations across the city.
Every event includes a beginner-friendly lesson followed by social dancing where you can practice, meet new people, and have fun.
What is West Coast Swing?
West Coast Swing is a modern partner dance that can be danced to a wide variety of music, including pop, blues, R&B, country, rock, soul, funk, and more.
It’s creative, social, and adaptable, making it one of the most versatile social dances in the world.
I’ve never danced before. Is this for me?
Absolutely.
Most people who attend their first La Petite Social have little or no dance experience.
Our beginner lessons are designed specifically for first-time dancers, and our community loves welcoming newcomers.
Do I need a partner?
No.
Come by yourself, with friends, or with family.
Social dancing is all about meeting people, and partners rotate throughout the lesson so everyone has a chance to dance.
What should I wear?
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move.
For shoes, we recommend something with a smooth sole if possible. Athletic shoes with lots of grip can make turning more difficult, but don’t let your shoes stop you from coming.
How much does it cost?
Some La Petite Social events are completely free, while others may have a small admission fee depending on the venue.
Any cost will always be clearly listed before the event.
Is there an age limit?
Ages 11 + are welcome! Participants who are 11-15 must be accompanied by an adult.
What if I have two left feet?
Perfect.
We’ve taught hundreds of people who said the exact same thing.
Everyone starts somewhere.
Will I have to dance with strangers?
During lessons, dance partners usually rotate so everyone gets the opportunity to practice with different people.
If you’d rather stay with the same dance partner, that’s perfectly okay too.
What kind of music do you play?
West Coast Swing is danced to an incredible variety of music.
You might hear artists like Teddy Swims, Allen Stone, Michael Bublé, Ed Sheeran, Lizzo, Chris Stapleton, Lake Street Dive, Bruno Mars, and many more.
What happens after the lesson?
After each lesson, the dance floor opens for social dancing.
This is where everyone practices what they learned, dances with new friends, and simply enjoys the music.
There’s no pressure.
Dance as much or as little as you’d like.
What if I don’t know anyone?
That’s exactly why we’re here.
Many people attend their first event alone.
One of our favorite things about West Coast Swing is watching strangers become friends.
Can I just watch?
Of course.
You’re welcome to watch, ask questions, and get a feel for the community.
Just be warned…
Most people who come to watch eventually decide to dance.
What happens after my first event?
If you enjoy yourself, we’d love to see you again.
La Petite Social is designed to introduce people to West Coast Swing and connect them with the thriving dance community here in Little Rock. We’ll help you discover regular dances, lessons, workshops, and other opportunities to continue learning.
Why is it called La Petite Social?
The name is inspired by La Petite Roche (“The Little Rock”), the landmark that gave our city its name.
La Petite Social celebrates that connection by bringing people together through West Coast Swing in communities all across Little Rock.
Is La Petite Social an official dance club?
No.
La Petite Social is a community initiative dedicated to growing West Coast Swing in Little Rock.
We host our own events while also supporting the instructors, organizations, DJs, and weekly dances that make our local dance community thrive.
Why flowers?
Our dancing daisies represent something simple but important.
Like flowers, communities grow when they’re cared for. Every friendship begins with a small connection, and every great dancer was once a beginner. Our dancing daisies remind us that social dancing is about joy, growth, and helping one another bloom.