A Sacred Gathering of Movement in Community
On the night of the Winter Solstice in 2002, a small group of women felt a deep call—a call to gather under the full moon, to move, to embody feminine power, and to express divine love through sacred dance.
At a time when ecstatic dance was nearly unheard of, and the only options were to move in unusual ways in a bar or at the edge of an outdoor concert, we created a space where women could dance freely, authentically, and in community.
Since then, our circle has grown, and our gatherings continue to shape the world around us as part of a movement that has changed how we connect with ourselves and each other through dance.
A Tradition of Sacred Movement
For over 20 years, we have danced with full moons, solstices, equinoxes, and eclipses.
Together, we have created ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations honoring the cycles of life and the many expressions of love. We have nurtured the Goddess within, embracing the wisdom of movement as medicine for the body and soul.
Whether you have danced with us once, many times, or simply enjoyed the invitations, you are part of the energy that sustains this sacred circle.
Video by Salt Lake Tribune 2014
Why We Dance
Movement is medicine. While dancing alone in your living room is wonderful, there is something profoundly different about coming together in sacred circle. We gather to explore the landscape of our bodies and souls, to connect, and to celebrate life in a treasured community space.
We are a strong circle—dancing through seasons, storms, triumphs, and transformations. As a community, we uplift, support, and honor one another, knowing that through movement, we return to our essence.
It’s a highlight of the month for many of us and it’s always different.
What to Expect
The Women’s Full Moon Dance is co-created by a dedicated group of passionate movers. We usually meet on the Saturday closest to the full moon to immerse ourselves in the healing power of dance, reconnect with our bodies, and nourish our spirits.
Additionally, we host special gatherings for the whole community, and invite our brothers and lovers, usually at Solstices and Equinoxes.
We create a safe, sacred space—a place to move from the inside out, to nurture your soul, and to simply be yourself. We practice non-judgement and letting go of comparing our dance to anyone elses.
No prior experience needed. Newcomers are always welcome.
With hearing-safe volume levels, the music is diverse and soul-stirring, spanning world beats, trance, African rhythms, Celtic melodies, Middle Eastern tones, rock, gospel, and more. If it shakes your bones, opens your heart, and frees your spirit, we dance to it. We make noise, laugh, cry, howl, sing, sit in stillness—it’s all welcome.
Painting by Georg Douglas
And as we move, we feel life moving us—joyfully, openly, unexpectedly. Whether you dance wildly or sit in quiet presence, you belong here.
Join Us
The Women’s Full Moon Dance is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and has been a space for women of all ages (from kids to crones) to come together, dance, and co-create a vibrant, nurturing community. Even those joining for the first time quickly feel at home, guided by the innate impulse to move and the supportive energy of the circle.
We know that movement is essential for our well-being. In a world where Dance Deficiency Syndrome is real (just ask your hips about that!), we offer a remedy—a space to reconnect with your aliveness, emotional flow, and personal power.
Women have danced as soul medicine for thousands, perhaps millions, of years—and we are honored to keep this tradition alive. Let’s keep moving together.
Be sure to get these dates on your calendar now!
Moon dances in 2025:
Mar 15
April 12
May 10
June 21, Summer Solstice
Aug 9
Sept 20, Fall Equinox
Oct 4
Nov 8
Dec 20, Winter Solstice
Come dance with us!
Now sweet one, be wise, Cast all your votes for dancing.
– Hafiz
Yes, I'd love to be invited...
The Women's Full Moon Dance is organized by:
Sylvia Nibley
Sylvia discovered she was made for ecstatic dance on a summer solstice night in the desert 34 years ago, when the power of trance surprised her with the force of a wild animal, and she’s been dancing into her body ever since.
In 2002, Sylvia founded the Women’s Full Moon Dance. As a visionary, healer, and prolific creator, she weaves wisdom, playfulness, and deep intuition into everything she touches, inspiring those around her to move beyond limitations and step into their fullest selves.
Donda Hartsfield
Donda is a passionate lover of nature and a devoted dancer under the light of the moon. She finds joy in wildcrafting, foraging, and creating flower essences and herbal remedies, embracing the wisdom of the natural world.
A longtime teacher and child at heart, Donda has been dancing with the Moon Dance for many seasons. She brings a deep love for community and her presence and frequent hosting has been a steady, integral thread in the foundation of our circle.
Guest Hosts
Every dance is a unique experience, shaped by the women who gather and the hosts who guide the journey. Sharing the responsibility of hosting allows us to co-create a space for the Divine Feminine to manifest in infinite ways.
In 2025, we’re grateful and honored to welcome these guest hosts who bring their own spirit, creativity, and wisdom to the circle, keeping it evolving and thriving:
Clare Gyorke, Kristi Smith, Koda Sol, Joanie Berrett, Cindy Neilson, Jack Arnott, Casee Francis, and DeAnn Bolinder.