Updates:
2 June: is there a dress code? In short, no, though Scottish attire is clearly a good option.
20 May: can children come? In short, yes, as long as their parents look after them.
What's a 'ceilidh'?
It's a Gaelic word for a visit, gathering or, effectively, a party. In our case, as is the common modern usage, it's evening of Scottish country dancing. And don't worry if you've never done Scottish country dancing before, we've got an experienced band, Craigievar, who bring 'a caller' to help you along (a caller is someone who calls out the moves to the dances).
Here's a link to tell you a bit more about ceilidhs.
Wimbledon Park Hall - where is that?
It's about 300 metres from Wimbledon Park tube station, at 170 Arthur Road (click here to see a Google map and links to the Wimbledon Park Hall website). If you're coming by tube, exit the tube station, turn right (don't cross the main road) and walk down the street. On the other side of the street you'll see the Co-Op - Wimbledon Park Hall is just past it on the side of the street you are on. Easy!
Will alcohol be for sale?
It will be 'bring your own booze', with plenty of shops near the venue that sell alcohol, so you can refresh your supplies or just buy it all when you get near the hall.
Any food for sale then?
Again, it's 'bring your own food' too and there's even more shops that sell food nearby, though be aware if you're thinking of having a sit down, 3-course meal while resting from dancing that there won't be huge numbers of tables.
You may want to book a restaurant before or after the ceilidh and there are plenty nearby, from those on the same road as the hall to those a walk or short taxi ride away in Wimbledon, Southfields and Earlsfield. Be aware that 28 June is the middle Saturday of the Wimbledon Tennis Championship, so you'll need to book a table in advance.
There is a cafe in the Wimbledon Park Hall complex, though currently it's not rented to anyone and we plan to use the space for people to sit and chat. If it is rented by the time of the ceilidh, then we'll talk to the owners about food and/or using the space.
Can we bring children?
Yes, that's not a problem. While it's not an event for children, we hope any children that do come enjoy the dancing. Children under 10 years old are free. Children between the ages of 10 and 15 are half price. Any children 16 years or older will be full price. All children present must come with their parents, who remain responsible for them at all times (especially during Strip the Willow, when the dancing can get pretty frantic!).
Is there a dress code?
No, there is no dress code: as long as it's clean and decent, we'll let you in. However, if you really want to get in the spirit of thing, Scottish highland dress is the way to go. Or maybe just find an auld 'see you Jimmy' bunnet.
Can we donate money to Bliss?
Yes, of course you can - in fact, please do, ideally towards my bike ride in aid of Bliss. If you do, I and lots of very, very small babies will be very grateful.
Can you remind me of the key details again?
My pleasure.
Ceilidh Bliss, 8pm-10.30pm, Sat 28 June, Wimbledon Park Hall.
Tickets: £20 on the door. £18 or 6 for the price of 5 (£100) in advance.
Order tickets through the online form up there on the right.
Order tickets through the online form up there on the right.
All proceeds to the premature baby charity Bliss.
