Local band “Popcorn Button” will be back on the stage this Independence Day weekend at the Elks Lodge in Atlantic for a night of free music and dancing. Admission is free, and dancers and listeners of all ages and abilities are invited to attend the dance on Friday, July 5th from 7- to 10- pm.

The summer’s first dance, titled “Let Freedom Swing” will see the twenty piece ensemble perform big band favorites like “In the Mood,” “Pennsylvania 6-5000,” and “Hoop-de-Doo Polka.”  Event organizers encourage dancers of all skill levels, including those with no experience, to enjoy the live music and get out on the dance floor. Jake and Pam Auerbach will be available to provide free instruction in east coast swing, waltz, two step, and polka throughout the evening.

Popcorn Button is a group of volunteer musicians who come from all walks of life. Many of the band’s members are from Atlantic or the surrounding area, including several students and alumni from Atlantic High School. Also featured are students from Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, the University of Northern Iowa, and the community at large.

A free will donation will be accepted at the door to help defray costs of the event. All excess money goes back to the community in donations or through the Popcorn Button Community Music Scholarship, an award to help young musicians attend band camps, honor bands, or private lessons. For more information, contact Curtis Ullerich at info@popcornbutton.org or at 424-242-2878, or visit www.popcornbutton.org.