Dance traditions are an important part of old-time and related styles of traditional music. The Minnesota Bluegrass August Festival has been offering a rich variety of social dance programming throughout its history. Dance activities take place at the Dance Tent, located just outside the mainstage area. 

Typical activities include community style square dancing with live music and callers, country two-step dancing, clogging/flatfooting, Cajun two-step and waltz dancing, and sometimes other styles such as polka, schottisches, or waltzes.