Canterbury’s

New Year's Day Ride

Each New Year’s Day for 30 plus years, Dudley Laufman has led a group of itinerant Canterbury musicians and dancers to a few homes in town to celebrate the season with dancing and singing. They bring a blessing to the house but it is also an occasion for the hosts to have a party with their family, friends and neighbors.

 Dudley and Jacqueline will arrive with 15 to 25 people, depending on how many add-ons may join as the group revels through town. The hosts and their company will be invited to dance: all we need is a bit of space cleared of the furniture and a corner or two for the musicians to stand. These are easy dances for everyone.

 Tradition calls for beer, bread and cheese for the musicians but they will be happy to share whatever is provided. And probably will. It is possible that the group may lag occasionally so the times may vary a bit.

 Thanks to all of you for opening your homes to The Ride. The musicians look forward to it each year and hope that you will enjoy yourselves. Join us for next year’s Ride.