On a recent Tuesday evening at Hill Country Barbecue Market in Manhattan’s Flatiron district, more than 100 people gathered at the Boot Bar for a night of line dancing under the theme “Boots and Bikinis.” Attendees ranged from novices to experienced dancers, unified by a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that reflects a growing trend in New York City’s line dancing scene.

Line dancing, historically associated with country music and cowboy boots, has experienced a resurgence in the city, especially within the LGBTQ community. Its pop-infused playlist now includes artists like Lady Gaga, Tate McRae, Britney Spears, and Pitbull alongside country classics. The dance styles have also evolved, incorporating sultry and high-energy moves inspired by viral trends on TikTok and YouTube. As a result, traditional Western attire often shares the floor with more contemporary looks such as cutoff shorts and crop tops.

The revival owes much to a network of events and parties that cater to queer line dancers and emphasize community and inclusivity. One such event is Big Apple Ranch, a monthly queer dance party in Manhattan co-founded by Susanna Stein, who has observed changes in the scene over nearly three decades. Stein noted that the current crowd is “much sexier” and younger, with fresh moves influenced by social media and new performers.

Among those leading the charge is Bailey Salisbury, 42, and Sean Monaghan, 39, who founded Stud Country in 2021. Originating in Los Angeles, the queer line-dancing and two-step party brought a rock ’n’ roll energy to the tradition, blending theatrical performance with dance instruction. Although the duo eventually parted ways, their efforts helped popularize a more dynamic and inclusive style. Salisbury now runs Scuff, a dance school offering both classes and parties, while Monaghan continues to manage Stud Country.

For many participants, line dancing provides more than entertainment; it offers a safe space to build community and express identity. Caitlyn Dorah, 27, a regular at Hill Country, described her initial experience as feeling like “gay church.” She credits line dancing with opening “a pocket that I didn’t even know existed.” Similarly, Avenue, a 22-year-old New York University student and former ballerina, called it a “safe haven” that has helped boost her confidence.

Hill Country’s director of catering and events, Seth Gurka, acknowledged that he initially doubted the concept would draw its consistent crowd, especially after raising the cover charge. However, the weekly line dancing nights continue to attract full audiences, providing a family-friendly alternative to traditional nightlife.

Julia Wortman, 26, who teaches line dancing at Hill Country and promotes the events online, highlighted the appeal of the dance for those seeking a more individualistic form of expression. Unlike partner dances such as salsa, line dancing allows participants to engage fully in their own space, fostering a sense of freedom and community simultaneously.

Veteran instructor Rona Kaye, 75, who previously taught at the now-closed Denim and Diamonds nightclub, continues to teach line dancing on the Upper West Side. She attributes the art form with helping her overcome personal challenges and expressed confidence in its lasting presence among younger generations.

As New York City’s line dancing community grows more diverse and visible, its practitioners see the tradition evolving but enduring. For many, the connection made through movement serves as both social glue and a form of creative release, suggesting the current resurgence is likely to continue well into the future.