About the Promenaders

The Cherokee Promenaders are exemplary ambassadors of square dancing and outstanding contributors to their community. Their dedication to promoting this cherished tradition while giving back to the Calhoun and Northwest Georgia region demonstrates why they are deserving of recognition for outstanding community involvement and promotion of square dancing.

This year, the club took a significant step forward by moving its home base to the Harris Arts Center, located in the center of downtown Calhoun. This partnership has expanded the club’s visibility, introduced square dancing to a broader audience, and created new opportunities for collaboration. The Cherokee Promenaders embraced this momentum by hosting two highly successful “One Night Stand” dances that welcomed the public—with no experience required—and drew five full squares of enthusiastic participants. They further expanded their reach by launching a new line dancing class at the request of the Harris Arts Center and Silver Sneakers Program, ensuring that even more people can experience the joy of dance.

The Cherokee Promenaders are equally committed to taking square dancing out into the community. They have participated in downtown events, distributed flyers, and performed exhibition dances at venues such as local churches for Pioneer Days, surrounding club functions, and the Northwest Georgia Fair. At the fair, they not only showcased their talents but the Cherokee Promenaders also invited audience members to join them on the dance floor. This offered firsthand experience to participants, that often inspires lasting interest. Their commitment to visibility ensures that square dancing remains an accessible and celebrated cultural activity.

Community service is at the heart of the Cherokee Promenaders’ mission. For over 40 years, the club has maintained a booth at the Northwest Georgia Fairgrounds, which doubles as a resource for local churches to raise funds for important projects. In 2024, one congregation raised over $16,000 for new playground equipment thanks to this opportunity. The club also volunteers at the July 4th Celebration concession stand, using proceeds to reinvest in the club and celebrate members’ contributions. Their generosity extends beyond Calhoun, as evidenced by their $500 donation from their Annual Hoedown to the Georgia State Square Dance Association and their participation in the GSSDA Caller-Rama fundraiser, which raised $1,200 to strengthen square dancing across the state.

Beyond dance, the Cherokee Promenaders actively support the cultural and civic life of Calhoun. Members serve as docents for the Harris Arts Center, contribute to committees such as Pre-K Pops and the Festival of Trees, and attend numerous arts events to strengthen community partnerships. The Cherokee Promenaders have supported their home base by attending productions such as Bonnie & Clyde, Matilda Jr., the Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre, and the Georgia String Band Festival, among others. In addition to supporting the arts, they are also laying the groundwork for the future of square dancing by connecting with local homeschool groups to explore including dance as part of physical education curriculum.

Through their commitment to preserving tradition, building community, and fostering new opportunities, the Cherokee Promenaders exemplify the very best of what a square dance club can be. They are tireless promoters of the art form, generous supporters of their community, and dedicated partners in ensuring that square dancing thrives for generations to come. For these reasons, they are most deserving of recognition for their outstanding community involvement and promotion of square dancing.