The Charleston Lindy Exchange isn’t just for veteran swingers
From noon to 4 a.m., from the beaches to the peninsula: the Charleston Lindy Exchange (CHEX) will have the Holy City swinging this May 18 to 20. And with the 11th annual fest bigger than ever, organizers hope more hometown folks will join in.
The Charleston Swing Dance Association, which convenes every Saturday night, puts on this local “Lindy exchange”—an event that brings enthusiasts together to do swing-era dances like the Lindy hop.
“The beach is a huge draw for people who travel here from around the Southeast and beyond,” says Chanel Leach, who joins Lindsey Givens as co-organizer. That’s why afternoon dances are held at island spots like the Citadel Beach House Pavilion. Nashville band Megan & Her Goodie Goodies performs at evening events on the peninsula, while hoppers will venture as far as Goose Creek for late-night gatherings.
“At my first exchange, I had no idea what I was doing, but I had so much fun that I stuck with it,” recalls Leach. “We want CHEX to be that accessible for everyone.” And considering that locals attending for the first time can swing all weekend long for just $25, what do you have to lose?
Find details on the May 18-20 events, held at venues like the Charleston Visitor Center, at charlestonswingdance.com.
Photograph by Jeff Rose Images
