Cultural Connections at Two Way Street Coffee House invites you to experience the richness of music and dance from around the world, right here in our community. Each event in the series showcases the traditions, rhythms, and stories of diverse cultures, offering audiences a chance to listen, learn, and share in the joy of artistic expression. From spirited folk dances to soulful songs, these gatherings celebrate the beauty of global traditions while fostering connection and friendship close to home.
NEW! Nordic Series
Join Our Nordic Music Jam!
Learn and share tunes from the Nordic countries in a warm, welcoming setting, September 18, 2025! This is a monthly teaching jam where we’ll teach, review, and play tunes in the aural tradition—by ear. All instruments, ages, and experience levels are welcome, and recording is encouraged.
The jam is facilitated by Mary Allsopp of Chicago Spelmanslag. Many of the tunes will be featured at our Nordic Dance nights, and musicians are invited to join in for an extra review and to learn about playing for dance.
Location: Two Way Street Coffee House, 1047 Curtiss St, Downers Grove, IL 60515
PLEASE NOTE: Starting in October, the Nordic Music Jam will the first Thursday evening of each month.
- Thursday, September 18, 2025 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, October 2, 2025 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, November 6, 2025 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, December 4, 2025 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, January 8, 2026 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, February 5, 2026 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, March 5, 2026 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, April 2, 2026 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, May 7, 2026 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, June 4, 2026 – 7:30 pm
- Thursday, July 2, 2026 – 7:30 pm
Join Us for Nordic Dance and Music!
Come experience the joy of Scandinavian dance and live music on the second Sunday of each month at the Two Way Street Coffee House, 1047 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515.
We’ll begin the evening at 6 pm with an hour of easy, welcoming community dances, and no partner is needed—just bring your enthusiasm! Soon after 7 pm, we’ll move to an advanced format to support those already experienced in pols, polska and springar type turning dances. $5 donation. Thank you for bringing your water bottle.
Dancing is led by Roo Lester, a knowledgeable and engaging teacher known for her clear, upbeat style. Whether you’re new to Nordic dance or have experience, Roo makes everyone feel welcome with her fun and easy-to-follow instruction, blending technique, styling, and cultural background.
Enjoy live music coordinated by Mary Allsopp and friends, bringing the spirit of Scandinavian folk traditions to life.
Location: Two Way Street Coffee House, 1047 Curtiss St, Downers Grove, IL 60515
- Sunday, October 12, 2025 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
- Sunday, November 9, 2025 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
- Sunday, December 14, 2025 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
- Sunday, January 11, 2026 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
- Sunday, February 8, 2026 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
- Sunday, March 8, 2026 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
- Sunday, April 12, 2026 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm
