Look What Croatians Do to Keep Their Culture Alive — One Dance Step at a Time!

In a Kansas City neighborhood with deep Croatian roots, two brothers are proving that tradition is anything but outdated.

Joe Baric and his brother, proud members of the Strawberry Hill community, are offering free Kolo dance lessons — not just for fun, but as a heartfelt mission to keep a piece of Croatian heritage spinning for generations to come, reports KSHB. 

Yes, Kolo — the joyful, circular dance that’s been passed down for over 2,000 years — is alive and well in the Midwest, and the Baric brothers are making sure it stays that way.

“It’s the national dance of Croatia,” says Joe Baric. “Croatians do it. Serbians do it. Macedonians do it. It’s our version of line dancing — but with way more rhythm and history.”

Their goal? To get young people up and dancing, laughing, connecting — and learning without even realising it.

“Kids love it once they get moving,” Joe adds. “It’s about fun, energy, and being part of something bigger. The more people we get on the dance floor, the better!”

The free lessons will be held on at St. John’s Catholic Church in Strawberry Hill. Everyone is welcome — all ages, all skill levels, no dance experience required.

So while some traditions fade quietly into history, this one’s being kept very much alive — with music, laughter, and a good old-fashioned spin.