Your Guide to Beginner Line Dancing in San Antonio at Howdy Sore Loser

By Jessica Marinez & Amber Hernandez, Co-Owners of Howdy Sore Loser Jessica Marinez and Amber Hernandez have been creating San Antonio's most memorable nightlife experiences for over a decade. As the owners behind Pink Shark, Picks Bar, and now Howdy Sore Loser, they're bringing authentic Texas line dancing culture back to downtown.

Line dancing is more than just choreographed steps to country music—it's a Texas tradition that brings people together, gets you moving, and creates those unforgettable Friday night memories. Whether you've got two left feet or you've been dancing since you could walk, our weekly line dancing lessons at Howdy Sore Loser downtown San Antonio offer the perfect mix of instruction, entertainment, and genuine Texas hospitality.

If you've been searching for "where to learn line dancing near me" or "beginner line dancing San Antonio," you've found your spot. Every Friday night, we transform our western sports bar into San Antonio's friendliest dance hall, teaching everyone from complete beginners to seasoned dancers the steps that make Texas proud.

Line Dancing at Howdy Sore Loser: At a Glance

When: Every Friday night starting at 7 PM

Location: 302 E Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78205 (downtown, steps from the River Walk)

What to Expect:

• Beginner-friendly instruction that breaks down every step

• No dance experience required—everyone starts somewhere

• All ages welcome (21+ venue)

• Full bar with Howdy Hour specials (3-8 PM)

• Live DJ after lessons for open dancing

• Our famous disco horse watching over the dance floor

What to Wear:

• Comfortable boots or smooth-soled shoes

• Jeans or pants that allow movement

• Optional: Cowboy hat for the full Texas experience

Cost: Free lessons with regular venue admission

Contact: (210) 823-7748 for questions or group bookings

Pro Tip: Arrive by 6:30 PM to grab a spot during Howdy Hour, get comfortable with the space, and fuel up with our brisket tacos before you hit the dance floor.

What is Line Dancing (and Why Texas Does It Best)

Line dancing is a choreographed dance performed in unison by a group of people arranged in lines or rows. Unlike partner dancing, line dancing doesn't require physical contact between dancers—you're following the same sequence of steps together, creating that satisfying visual rhythm that makes the whole floor move as one.

The roots of line dancing trace back to traditional folk dances and country-western culture, but it exploded in popularity during the 1970s and 80s, especially here in Texas. Walk into any authentic western bar in San Antonio, and you'll find line dancing remains a cornerstone of our nightlife culture. It's democracy in motion—doesn't matter if you're the CEO or the bartender, on the dance floor, everyone's learning the same steps and having the same fun.

At Howdy Sore Loser, we're keeping this tradition alive while adding our own spin. Our Friday night lessons happen in a two-story venue that starts as a sports bar (perfect for catching happy hour and early games) and transforms into a full-energy dance hall once the instruction begins. You'll learn under the watchful eye of our iconic disco horse—yes, really—surrounded by Western neon, big screens, and the best crowd in downtown San Antonio.

Why You Should Learn Line Dancing (It's Not Just About the Steps)

When we opened Howdy Sore Loser, we knew we wanted to bring back real line dancing culture to downtown. Here's why learning line dancing is worth your Friday night:

It's Genuine Exercise That Doesn't Feel Like Work

Line dancing gets your heart rate up, improves coordination and balance, and builds cardiovascular health—all while you're having too much fun to notice you're working out. After an hour on the dance floor, you'll have moved more than most people do at the gym, but you'll be smiling the whole time.

You'll Actually Meet People (Not Just Swipe Right)

This is a social activity in the truest sense. You'll dance alongside locals, tourists, regulars, and first-timers, all learning together. The line dancing community in San Antonio is incredibly welcoming, and some of our best friendships have started on the dance floor. Plus, there's something about messing up the grapevine together that breaks the ice faster than any dating app ever could.

It's Stress Relief With a Soundtrack

Dancing releases endorphins, those natural mood boosters that help reduce stress and anxiety. When you're focused on remembering if the next step is a heel dig or a jazz box, you're not thinking about your inbox or your to-do list. It's active meditation with boots and a beat.

You're Connecting to Real Texas Culture

Line dancing isn't just entertainment—it's part of Texas heritage. Learning these dances connects you to generations of Texans who've two-stepped and boot-scooted their way through celebrations, heartbreaks, and everything in between. Whether you're a San Antonio native or new to the city, line dancing gives you a deeper appreciation for what makes Texas special.

Basic Line Dancing Steps Every Beginner Should Know

Our Friday night instructors at Howdy Sore Loser break down every move clearly, but here are four fundamental steps you'll use in almost every line dance. Practice these at home, and you'll walk in with extra confidence:

Step Touch

This is your foundation. Step to the right with your right foot, then touch (or tap) your left foot next to it without putting weight on it. Repeat to the left side. Simple, rhythmic, and used in countless dances. Think of it as the "walk before you run" of line dancing.

Grapevine

Here's where it gets a little fancier. Step to the right with your right foot, cross your left foot behind your right, step right again, and tap your left foot beside your right. Then reverse it going left. The grapevine adds that satisfying traveling motion across the floor and shows up in everything from the Electric Slide to more complex dances.

Heel Dig

Tap your right heel forward (toes pointing up), then step back to place. Repeat with your left heel. This move adds personality to dances and gives you that classic country flair. Pro tip: Really dig that heel for emphasis—it's called a heel dig for a reason.

Jazz Box

This one sounds complicated but becomes second nature fast. Cross your right foot over your left, step back with your left foot, step right to the side, and step forward with your left. It creates a box pattern on the floor and adds elegant movement to intermediate dances.

Want to see these steps in action? Join us Friday nights at 7 PM for hands-on instruction at downtown San Antonio's friendliest line dancing venue.

Beginner-Friendly Line Dances You'll Learn at Howdy Sore Loser

We always start Friday nights with dances that welcome absolute beginners. Here are three classics you'll likely learn during your first visit:

Cupid Shuffle

The Cupid Shuffle is perfect for your first time on the floor. It's a simple four-step pattern repeated throughout the song, with verbal cues telling you exactly when to turn. Right, right, right. Left, left, left. Walk it out. Turn. If you can follow directions, you can do the Cupid Shuffle. It's a confidence builder that gets everyone moving together.

Electric Slide

This 1970s classic is the line dance everyone should know. The sequence is smooth and repetitive—grapevine right, grapevine left, walk back, step forward, and a quarter turn. Within two or three repetitions, you'll have it memorized. The Electric Slide is a rite of passage and a dance floor staple at every line dancing sports bar San Antonio has to offer.

Cha Cha Slide

Part line dance, part aerobic workout, the Cha Cha Slide combines cha-cha steps with slides, turns, and even a few jumping jacks. The best part? A voice-over calls out every move, so you literally can't get lost. "Slide to the left! Slide to the right!" It's impossible not to smile while doing the Cha Cha Slide, which is exactly why we love teaching it.

These three dances rotate regularly at Howdy Sore Loser, along with Texas classics and newer choreography our instructors bring in. By your third or fourth Friday, you'll be helping teach the newcomers.

What to Wear for Line Dancing (Comfort Meets Western Style)

You don't need a full cowboy outfit to line dance, but what you wear does matter for comfort and safety on the floor. Here's what works best:

Footwear is Everything

The right shoes make all the difference. Cowboy boots are classic and give you that authentic Texas look, but any boot or shoe with a smooth leather sole works great. Dance shoes designed for line dancing are ideal if you're getting serious about it. Avoid sneakers with thick rubber treads—they can catch on the floor and make turns difficult (or even cause you to trip). Your feet will thank you for choosing something comfortable that allows smooth pivots and slides.

Breathable, Flexible Clothing

Jeans are perfect for line dancing—they're durable, look great, and give you the flexibility you need. Pair them with a western-style shirt, a casual tee, or anything that lets you move freely. Line dancing does get your heart rate up, so choose breathable fabrics. And remember, Howdy Sore Loser has that authentic saloon atmosphere with mood lighting—you'll want to look good under those Western neon lights.

Accessories (Keep It Practical)

A cowboy hat adds instant Texas flair and makes for great photos under our disco horse. A statement belt buckle completes the look. But keep accessories practical—you don't want anything dangling or catching while you're spinning through a jazz box. Save the big jewelry for after the lesson when you're just enjoying the atmosphere and the drinks.

Still not sure what to wear? Come as you are! We're a judgment-free zone where the only dress code is "comfortable and ready to have fun."

Where to Learn Line Dancing in Downtown San Antonio

Let's be honest: there are sports bars, there are dance halls, and then there's Howdy Sore Loser—the western-themed sports bar and dance hall that gives you the best of both worlds.

Located at 302 E Commerce Street in the heart of downtown San Antonio's entertainment district, we're just steps from the River Walk and surrounded by the energy that makes this city special. But what makes our Friday night line dancing lessons stand out?

Beginner-Focused Instruction

Our instructors genuinely love teaching and break down every step with patience and clarity. They demonstrate multiple times, walk through the sequence slowly, then gradually build up to speed. No one's rushing you, no one's judging your footwork, and everyone in the room is learning together—from tourists trying something new to locals brushing up on the classics.

The Atmosphere Makes the Difference

You're not learning in some sterile studio with mirrors and fluorescent lights. You're learning in a real Texas saloon with Western decor, big screens showing the game, craft cocktails at the bar, and our legendary disco horse presiding over the dance floor. The energy is authentic, the crowd is friendly, and the whole experience feels like a Friday night out—not a formal class.

It's Part of a Full Night Out

Here's what a typical Friday at Howdy Sore Loser looks like: Arrive around 6:30 PM during Howdy Hour to grab discounted drinks and appetizers. Maybe catch the early game on one of our 20+ HD screens. Lessons start at 7 PM, and you'll spend the next hour learning new dances and practicing classics. Then, around 8 PM, the floor opens up for freestyle dancing with a live DJ spinning country hits and crowd favorites. You can dance as much or as little as you want, grab more food from our kitchen (open until midnight), and enjoy the full transformation of our space from sports bar to dance hall.

Plus, We're Also a UFC Boxing Bar Downtown San Antonio

That means when there's a big fight, you can watch the action on premium screens with unbeatable sound, then transition straight into dancing when it's over. Where else can you catch the knockout of the night and learn the Cha Cha Slide in the same venue?

Ready to start your line dancing journey? Call us at (210) 823-7748 with any questions, or just show up Friday at 7 PM—we'll be waiting with cold drinks and a warm welcome.

Tips for Your First Line Dancing Lesson

We remember our first time line dancing (yes, even we had to start somewhere), and we know that stepping onto the dance floor for the first time can feel intimidating. Here are our best tips for making your first lesson at Howdy Sore Loser as fun and stress-free as possible:

Arrive Early and Get Comfortable

Show up around 6:30 PM. This gives you time to order a drink during Howdy Hour, grab some food (we recommend the brisket tacos or queso), scope out the space, and settle your nerves. Chat with the bartender, meet some of the regulars, and remind yourself that everyone on that dance floor was once exactly where you are now.

Watch First, Then Jump In

When the lesson starts, don't feel pressured to join immediately. Stand on the edge of the floor, watch the instructor demonstrate, observe how other dancers move, and let your brain process the steps. Once you feel ready—even if it's halfway through the first dance—step in and start moving. There's no "you must begin now" requirement.

Ask Questions Without Hesitation

Our instructors are here to teach, and they genuinely want you to succeed. If you don't understand a step, raise your hand. If you're getting lost during a sequence, ask them to demonstrate again. And don't forget the people around you—experienced line dancers are usually happy to help a beginner figure out which foot goes where.

Let Go of Perfection

Here's the truth: you're going to mess up. You'll turn the wrong direction, forget the sequence, and probably bump into someone. So will everyone else. The beauty of line dancing is that when you mess up, you just jump back in on the next count. Laugh it off, keep moving, and remember that the goal is fun, not flawless execution.

Stay Hydrated and Pace Yourself

Line dancing is more of a workout than you expect. Take breaks, drink water (our bartenders will happily give you a glass), and don't feel like you have to dance every single song. Listen to your body, and remember, this is supposed to be enjoyable—not exhausting.

Focus on the Music and the Community

The best dancers aren't the ones with perfect technique—they're the ones clearly having the most fun. Feel the music, smile at the people around you, and soak in the atmosphere. You're line dancing in a Texas saloon under a disco horse with a Friday night crowd. That's pretty special.

Frequently Asked Questions About Line Dancing at Howdy Sore Loser

Do I need dance experience to join the Friday night lessons?

Absolutely not! Our lessons are specifically designed for beginners. We start with the fundamentals and build from there. Whether you've never danced a day in your life or you just want to learn some new dances, you'll fit right in. Experienced dancers are welcome too—we love when they help encourage and guide newcomers.

What time do the line dancing lessons start?

Line dancing instruction begins at 7 PM every Friday night at Howdy Sore Loser. We recommend arriving by 6:30 PM to take advantage of our Howdy Hour specials (3-8 PM daily) and get settled before the lesson starts. After instruction wraps around 8 PM, the floor opens for freestyle dancing with a live DJ.

Is there a cover charge or fee for the line dancing lessons?

No separate fee! The lessons are free with regular venue admission. Just show up, order a drink or some food, and join in. We believe line dancing should be accessible to everyone who wants to learn, so we keep it simple and welcoming.

Can I bring a group for a private line dancing lesson?

Yes! We offer private line dancing instruction for groups, corporate events, bachelorette parties, and special occasions. It's a unique, interactive activity that gets everyone involved and creates lasting memories. Call us at (210) 823-7748 to discuss private lesson options and availability.

What if I don't have cowboy boots?

No problem! While cowboy boots are a classic choice, any comfortable shoe with a smooth sole works great for line dancing. Dance shoes, leather-soled boots, or even certain dress shoes are fine. Just avoid sneakers with thick rubber treads that can catch on the floor. Wear what feels good, and you'll be ready to dance.

Do I need a partner for line dancing?

Nope! Line dancing is performed individually in unison with the group. You don't need a partner, and there's no physical contact between dancers. It's one of the reasons line dancing is so accessible and social—you're dancing with everyone on the floor, but you're also doing your own thing.

What else is happening at Howdy Sore Loser on Friday nights?

Friday is one of our busiest and most fun nights. In addition to line dancing lessons at 7 PM, we have Howdy Hour running until 8 PM, multiple big screens showing games and sports, a full menu from our kitchen (open until midnight), and a live DJ keeping the energy high after instruction ends. Some Fridays also feature UFC fights or special events—check our social media or call ahead to see what's happening this week.

Where can I learn more line dancing in San Antonio besides Fridays?

We're proud to offer the most beginner-friendly line dancing lessons in downtown San Antonio every Friday, but we're also building a community of dancers who gather outside of lessons. Follow Howdy Sore Loser on social media for updates on special dance nights, themed events, and potential additional lesson times. Our goal is to make line dancing a regular part of San Antonio nightlife again, one Friday at a time.

Ready to Two-Step Into Your Friday Night?

Line dancing at Howdy Sore Loser isn't just about learning choreography—it's about experiencing authentic Texas culture, meeting new people, and creating those Friday night memories that make you smile on Monday morning. Whether you're looking for a fun date night idea, a unique group activity, or just a reason to get out and move, our weekly lessons offer everything you need in one unforgettable venue.

Come as you are. Bring your friends. Leave your inhibitions at the door. And get ready to discover why line dancing remains one of Texas's most beloved traditions.

Join us every Friday night at 7 PM for beginner line dancing lessons at downtown San Antonio's premier western sports bar and dance hall.

📍 302 E Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

📞 (210) 823-7748

🕒 Lessons Start: 7 PM Every Friday

🍹 Howdy Hour: 3-8 PM Daily

🎵 Live DJ After Lessons | Open Dancing Until Close

See you on the dance floor—where every Friday night feels like a celebration, and everyone's welcome to join the line.

Howdy Sore Loser is downtown San Antonio's premier western-themed sports bar and dance hall, offering weekly beginner line dancing lessons every Friday at 7 PM. Located at 302 E Commerce Street, we combine authentic Texas hospitality with great food, signature cocktails, and the best atmosphere near the River Walk. Call (210) 823-7748 for questions or group bookings. No experience required—just bring your boots and your best attitude.