Texas Two-Step
The Texas Two-Step is the signature dance of the Lone Star State — a flowing, elegant partner dance that looks great and feels even better once you get the hang of it.
How to Do the Texas Two-Step
The Texas Two-Step uses a "quick-quick-slow-slow" rhythm pattern danced in 4/4 time. Here's the basic breakdown:
Lead (typically the man): Step forward with the left foot on beat 1 (quick), step forward with the right foot on beat 2 (quick), then step forward again with the left foot on beats 3–4 (slow), and bring the right foot together on the next two beats (slow).
Follow (typically the woman): Mirror the lead — step back on the right foot, then left, then right-together.
The couple moves counter-clockwise around the perimeter of the dance floor, which in Texas is called the "line of dance." Faster dancers travel the outside edge; slower dancers stay toward the center.
Where to Dance the Two-Step in Texas
Almost every city in Texas has at least one honky tonk with a two-step floor. Major destinations include:
- Gruene Hall (New Braunfels) — Texas's oldest dance hall
- Billy Bob's Texas (Fort Worth) — the world's largest honky tonk
- Luckenbach Dance Hall (Luckenbach) — legendary Hill Country venue
- Houston — dozens of honky tonks across the metro area
- Austin — venues on and around South Congress and East Austin
Two-Step Videos
Texas Two-Step FAQ
What is the Texas Two-Step?
A partner country dance in quick-quick-slow-slow rhythm, danced counter-clockwise around a dance floor to country music.
How long does it take to learn?
The basics can be learned in an hour. Getting comfortable on a crowded floor usually takes a few nights out at a honky tonk.
Where can I learn to Texas Two-Step?
Most Texas honky tonks offer free lessons before live music starts on weekend nights. Ask at the door.