How Can You Do the 'Bunny Hop'?

Teen Princesses doing the bunny hop
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Many people are familiar with the "Bunny Hop," the popular group dance commonly performed at social events, such as parties and wedding receptions.

Follow the simple steps below and you'll be able to join the fun. Here's how to do the "Bunny Hop." 

Steps for the "Bunny Hop"

  1. As soon as you hear the "Bunny Hop" music, hurry to the dance floor. Be careful not to trip over other bunny hoppers.
  2. Find a place in line. This kind of line is called a conga line.
  3. Place your hands on the hips of the person in front of you. Allow the person behind you to grab your hips, as well.
  4. Following the song lyrics, kick your right foot out to the side, placing your heel on the ground. Bring your right foot back in.
  5. Repeat, kicking your right foot out to the side again. Bring it back in.
  6. Kick your left foot out to the side, placing your heel on the ground. Bring your left foot back in.
  7. Repeat, kicking your left foot out to the side again. Bring it back in.
  8. Hop forward once with both feet together.
  9. Hop backward once with both feet together.
  10. Hop forward three times with the music.
  11. Repeat the steps, holding onto the person in front of you, until the music stops.

Tips

  • Keep up with the steps so you don't get left behind. Because it's done in a line, it's important to stay in sync.
  • Try not to let go of the person in front of you.
  • Don't be the first person in line unless you know the steps well.
  • If you happen to be the first person in line and you know the steps, lead the group around the room.

What You Need

  • Lots of people.
  • "Bunny Hop" music. The “Bunny Hop” is traditionally done to the big-band song with the same name. The song was first recorded by Ray Anthony but has been re-recorded many different times and with different accents and styles. You can find variations of the “Bunny Hop” with salsa, mambo, electronic and other spins.

History of the “Bunny Hop”

As the legend goes, this group dance was originated at a high school in the ‘50s.