Join the swinging Oxford Lindy Hoppers  

Liz Nicholls

Oxford Lindy Hoppers celebrate jazz dance heritage with spectacular summer events

Oxford Lindy Hoppers are inviting music lovers, dancers and curious newcomers alike to step back into the golden age of swing this summer with a series of lively events celebrating the rich heritage of Lindy Hop and jazz dance culture.

The volunteer-run non-profit group, which has built a thriving community in Oxford, will host Oxford Lindy Exchange (OLX) 2026 across the weekend of June 13 and 14 — its biggest annual event.

Held at the striking Olivier Hall at St Edward’s School, the festival brings together swing dancers and live musicians from across the UK and Europe for a weekend inspired by the great dance halls of the Swing Era.

Audience members are also invited to attend as spectators, with organisers keen to share the excitement and atmosphere of live swing music and social dance with a wider audience.

Saturday’s Grand Ball will feature acclaimed bandleader Ewan Bleach and The Fleeting Paradise Orchestra performing three live sets, while Sunday offers a musical journey through jazz history with Duncan Hemstock and His All Stars, exploring everything from gospel and early jazz through to boogaloo, bossa nova and soul. A traditional tea dance follows later that afternoon.

Oxford Lindy Hoppers say the group is passionate not only about dancing, but also about preserving and sharing the cultural history behind these art forms.

“Lindy Hop and other swing dances emerged in Black American communities from the 1920s,” organisers explained. “We’re a completely volunteer-run community group that loves swing dancing and creating something together.”

Alongside the festival, the group will also host “Varsity Shag Shenanigans!” on Sunday, June 7 — an afternoon workshop introducing dancers to Collegiate Shag, a fast-paced and energetic partner dance popular during the 1930s swing era.

The workshop takes place at St Michael and All Angels Church Hall in Summertown and is followed by live music from The William Arthur Trio.

Organisers say no partner or previous experience is needed — just comfortable shoes, enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new.

Oxford Lindy Hoppers also run weekly classes and monthly socials throughout the year, with plans for a live band evening on October 2 currently in development.

More information and tickets can be found at oxfordlindyhoppers.co.uk