Dance Like an Albanian: Traditional Folk Dance Class

In Albania, no celebration ends without a valle, the circle dance where everyone joins hands and follows the lead dancer, who waves a handkerchief to guide the group. This masterclass is a chance to learn it properly, with a professional folk dancer walking you through the steps and explaining where they come from.

You'll start with a traditional sweet and a welcome drink (raki for adults, juice for kids) while your instructor introduces Albanian culture and the traditional motifs you'll see in its dances and costumes. Then it's hands-on, with the first steps of two dances. First comes Pogonishte, the slow, proud dance of every Albanian celebration, danced all together as one big group. After a short water break, you'll pick up the pace with Napoloni, the lively wedding dance from Tirana.

The class ends with the traditional costumes of Albania's three regions: the north, the centre and the south. Pick the region you like best and dress up in the full outfit, or just a few pieces like the white felt qeleshe cap or an embroidered vest, then pose for photos in costume. You'll go home with the photos and a video of the group dancing.

Classes run on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 16:30 to 18:00. They're taught in English, Greek or French, with no more than 10 guests, so the class stays calm and easy to follow. No experience needed, just good spirits.