Shagging returns to Yorktown for 2013

Beach music, also known as Carolina beach music, is a regional genre which developed from various rock/R&B/pop music of the 1950s and 1960s. Beach music is most closely associated with the style of swing dance known as the shag, or the Carolina shag, which is also the official state dance of both North Carolina and South Carolina. Recordings with a 4/4 "blues shuffle" rhythmic structure and moderate-to-fast tempo are the most popular music for the shag, and the vast majority of the music in this genre fits that description.

Those eager to scratch their shag-dancing itch will find what they’re looking for at the Yorktown waterfront starting next month.

The Riverwalk Beach Music Concert Series begins June 6, 2013 and will continue most Thursdays through Aug. 1, 2013. The shows are free and take place at Riverwalk Landing near the foot of the Coleman Bridge.

Entertainment will take place on the performance stage at Riverwalk Landing, overlooking the York River in Historic Yorktown.

     This seven-week concert series will feature some of the area’s top acts playing beach favorites, oldies, Motown and more.  Start your weekend early this summer, and join us for Shagging on the Riverwalk every Thursday night from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., June 6 through June 20, and again from July 11 through August 1.  The Colonial Shag Club will again provide shag lessons, demonstrations, club information, and will answer questions related to this popular form of dance.

     Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes, as one of the area’s largest outdoor dance floors will give you the opportunity to practice your shagging: 

v June 6             Band of Oz

v June 13            The Embers

v June 20            Atlantic Groove Band

         – – – – – 2 Week Break – – – – –

v July 11             The Rhondels

v July 18             Mark Roberts and Breeze

v July 25             The Main Event Band

v August 1         The Holiday Band

     This series is free and open to the public.  Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and/or lawn chairs.  Food will be available for purchase.  Free parking is available at the Riverwalk Landing parking terrace, York Hall, York-Poquoson Courthouse, County Administration Building, and other designated public parking lots throughout Yorktown.  Signage directing motorists to parking lots will be in place.

     For more information about Shagging on the Riverwalk or any other events in York County, call the York County Parks and Recreation Office at 890-3500 or visit www.visityorktown.org. Event Weather Hotline: 890-3520.  This event is sponsored by York County.