On Saturday, 1 February, Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca (HFDI) sponsors its sweetest event of the year, a "Dessert Dance" with the amazing Contradictions: Rick Manning (fiddle, mandolin), Dave Davies (guitar, trombone), Tom Hodgson (guitar), Tim Ball (fiddle, foot percussion), and Harry Aceto (bass), 7-11 pm at CSMA, 330 E. State Street, Ithaca. They will play a glorious mix of New England, Irish, and French Canadian contra dance music (7:00-10:00 pm) plus globe- and time-spanning couples dances: Swedish hambo, waltz (including Venezuelan), hot 1930s swing, schottishe, polka, maybe even tango (10:00-11:00 pm)! A panoply of terrific callers, Vikki Armstrong, Casey Carr, Pamela Goddard, Katy Heine, and Nancy Spero, will teach each contra dance. Beginners are encouraged to come early to learn the basic moves; the steps are simple and other dancers will help.

No need to bring a partner, but please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the floor and a finger-food dessert (fresh fruit or non-sweet snacks are welcome) to share at the 10 pm potluck.

Admission: $12 HFDI members; $15 nonmembers; $8 students; 12 and under free. $12 annual membership provides discounted admission at all HFDI dances, door prizes, and participation in a member-run community non-profit. More info on Facebook and www.hands4dancers.org