Hats, boots, and fans will be part of the attire for the second edition of line dancing, which will take place this Friday, June 13, at the Peekskill Youth Bureau. Boots on the Ground – Family Edition is an activity that, according to organizers, is designed for ages “9 to 90.” There’s only one requirement: a willingness to move your whole body.

The event, aimed at strengthening community ties, will begin at 6 p.m. and run for two hours. During that time, attendees will enjoy choreographies led by Steve “Fun Bunch” Dillard. The dance instructor has extensive experience in this discipline and has participated in similar events in Peekskill and throughout the Hudson Valley.

The first edition of Boots on the Ground drew a considerable audience. This time, the event returns with a format that accommodates all types of participants. In sequences ranging from 8 to 16 counts, dancers move to the rhythm of country, R&B, soul, pop, and even salsa or cumbia. Just last week, Dillard brought his talent and energy to Peekskill’s riverfront, leading a community-based choreography.

In line dancing, participants stand in rows and follow a choreography broken into step blocks. The goal is to master essential movements such as the grapevine, heel-tap, step-touch, and kick-ball-change. The event will also feature group sequences similar to flash mobs, family-friendly challenges, role reversals during the dance, and interactive music selection.

No prior registration is needed, and the event is free. However, organizers recommend arriving on time to secure a good spot. At the end of the session, participants will have the opportunity to take photos with Dillard, who is known for lighting up the stage.

For more information about the event or possible future dates, contact Tuesday Paige McDonald, Executive Director of the Youth Bureau, at (914) 734‑4149.