If you ever find yourself dancing the square dance, then you have officially become a true Illinoisan.

Illinois is among 19 states that have proclaimed square dancing their official dance. However, in 1990 Governor James R. Thompson signed a law that proclaimed square dancing the certified dance of the state. Square dancing is a mixture of many different dances that are influenced by Irish, Spanish and Scottish dancing.

Square dancing usually involves couples in groups of four who are all set up in a square. A fiddle, accordion and banjo play while an instructor prompts a variety of movements.

Learn more:
Find out about going out and square dancing in Illinois.