Foreign cultures in Washington, DC

Here are just a few of those that you can choose from, offered by a prominent DC-based cultural organization - The International Club of DC. The club offers throughout the week many events, most of which are hosted by ambassadors and their staff themselves - so you might even get a glimpse of a royal international "import".

Here are a few happening in the rest of the month of February 2010:

Thursday, February 18, 2010. French Embassy Dance Lesson Soiree with French Wine

If you think that French are done with the romantic events, you are far from being right. It’s in the culture – romance, dance, eat and drink and that’s why the Embassy invites you back to learn to dance the Tango and Cha Cha. Anyone can come – especially – the beginners are welcome. In addition – if you are solo, you don’t need to be concerned about having a dance partner. They will show you how to dance the tango, one of the most elegant and passionate ballroom dances, followed by the Cha Cha, one of the most fun Latin dances. The dance lessons will be followed by time to practice what you have learned and meet other ICDC members who love to dance while enjoying French wine. Please click here for tickets and information.

Saturday, February 20, 2010. Fencing Lessons Including Equipment Rentals

This event would give you exciting lessons on swordsmanship and chivalry. The lesson will cover the basics of fencing in a relaxed, fun, and safe setting. All equipment will be provided. After the lesson, practice your fencing skills with other attendees. Fencing lessons frequently sell out. Please reserve your tickets early. Click here for tickets.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010. Viennese Waltz Lessons for Viennese Ball at the National Museum of Women in the Arts

Learn the Viennese Waltz, as danced in Vienna on the museum’s exquisite marble dance floor. Whether you plan to attend the Viennese Ball at the National Museum of Women in the Arts or would simply like to learn how to dance the Viennese Waltz, as it is danced in Vienna.

This is a rare opportunity to learn how to dance one of the most timeless dances of all time. The lessons will be taught by Herb and Carol Traxler, who are from Austria, on the exquisite marble dance floor of the grand ballroom of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Please make your reservation online for discounted admission. See photos from our previous Viennese waltz lessons at the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

Saturday, February 27, 2010. Viennese Ball at the National Museum of Women in the Arts: A Night in Vienna

This event, set at one of the most exquisite venues in Washington DC - the National Museum of Women in the Arts promises an unforgettable Viennese celebration of music, food, wine and dancing featuring the music of The Salon Orchestra of Washington. The museum's grand Renaissance Revival building and the elegant grand ballroom and Mezzanine provide the perfect setting to bring to life the timeless elegance of a Viennese Ball, as experienced in Vienna.

White marble staircases sweep upward to the spacious Mezzanine where you will feast on champagne, world-renowned Austrian wine, dinner, and a lavish dessert buffet in the finest Viennese tradition. As you enjoy your evening, watch the twirling silhouettes on the marble dance floor below move to the sounds of the world’s most beloved waltzes, and other dance music from around the world. Stroll down the sweeping marble stair cases of the museum and dance on the exquisite marble floor to the sounds of the Salon Orchestra of Washington, as they perform the world’s favorite Strauss waltzes, ballroom music from around the world and the famous Radetsky Grand March. Discounted tickets available for a limited time.

This is it for the February events that bring culture from around the world to the steps of your hometown – Washington, DC. In the rather cold winter, these events might be a great way to do it all – stay inside and have a great time – all at the same time.