The Merry Mixers were a very active club in those first years. They hosted one of the first Student Jamborees in Germany at the Panzer Kasern in May 1974 and followed that event with the first marathon dance in June 1974. Via military provided buses, the club visited many ‘Specials’ and local dances promoting the motto, "Friendship is Square Dancing’s greatest reward"! Many of these ‘Specials’ are still active, but unfortunately, many have disappeared from the square dance scene. One of the frequently attended dances was the Chiemsee Week at the US Armed Forces Recreation Facilities. Naturally, the Merry Mixers support their local communities and have appeared for demos at all of the annual city fests for the cities of Boeblingen and Sindelfingen since the founding of the club.

Our club has featured many special and favorite callers that are well known by the international square dance public. Callers of the Merry Mixers include:
 

	Carl Heltzel	(Feb ’73 - Oct ’74),
	Bill Mills	(Nov ’74 - Jun ’75)
	Dave Preskitt	(Jul ’75 - Apr ’76), Mar ’77 - Sep ’78)
	Ray Johnson	(co-caller: Jul ’75 - Apr ’76; caller: Apr ’76 - Mar ’77)
	Herbert Köhler	co-caller: Mar ‘77- Dec ’77  Oct ’78 - Mar ’79)
	Ozzie Oswald	(Apr ’79 - May ’81)
	Gerhard Kamm	(Dec ’81- Mar ’87)
	Dennis Gagne	(Mar ’87 - present)

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Marathon Dance

The Merry Mixer Marathon Dance was founded in June 1974 as a charter dance. The Original Marathon featured 10 hours of non-stop dancing including 5 hours round and 5 hours square dancing. Many years later, the format was changed and now includes 5 hours of marathon square dancing as well as 1.5 - 2 hours of warmups featuring alternating Plus dancing for the early birds. Don't miss it! Bring your partner, bring your club. dance the entire Marathon and earn a prize! Rules require dancing in the same square without a break for 50 minutes from start to finish. Naturally, a 10 minute break is provided every hour for club provided refreshments and drinks. Don't forget, wear comfortable shoes and a BIG SMILE!

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Campout

The campout for the Merry Mixers was started about 6 years ago by various club members who desired to combine their hobbies of Square Dancing and Camping for a weekend of fun and relaxation. The first official weekend was at the Heidehof Campground on the Schwäbisch Alb. In addition to square dancing, the campout traditionally features activities for the entire family including hiking, 'coffee breaks', crazy ping pong, 'boule' or lawn bowling, and grill party. This is a private club affair and does require advance reservations, however, invited guests are welcome.

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Summer Picnic

The annual club picnic has been a highlight of the Merry Mixers since the founding of the club. The picnic features typical activities of a truly American art: horseshoe pitching, softball, frisbee games, and of course super grilling of steaks and hot dogs with plenty of refreshing drinks provided by the club.

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Fasching Dance

The Fasching dance has been an annual club highlight since 1977 and is always scheduled for the Friday evening before Fasching Tuesday. It provides the club and class members with an opportunity to combine square dancing and fasching on a 'normal' club night. This gives both club and class members a better chance to get to know each other in a party atmosphere! Of course, much more than square dancing is provided for entertainment. Costumes are not actually required but are highly encouraged. Join in the fun, wear a costume and come and party with us! Don't forget to bring finger foods so that we can put out a 'buffet' for everyone to sample. Yes, if you have a special flavor of  'home brew' don't forget to bring it too! We'll be more than happy to 'test' it for you!

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Christmas Party

The annual Christmas party is usually scheduled in December & (hopefully) before Christmas, at a local  restaurant and typically includes a 'Tip or two' of square dancing. exchanging of  'gifts' between club and class members, and sometimes a visit by 'Santa Claus'. You never can tell what will happen at this party! Oh yes, square dance attire is NOT required!

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