In a March 2019 article I wrote titled “Eastern Ohio Dance Venues” I included a paragraph about Jewel’s Dance Hall in Austinburg. This has long been a classic honky tonk bar and now I decided to devote an entire article to share the progress of a building that was originally a cow barn and creamery then was converted into a dance hall in the late 1920’s and early 1930’s. In August 2023, new owners Kyle Krieg and Melissa Light took over; they opened the doors back up on September 6, 2023. They have delicious food and appealing drink specials!
Kyle and Melissa decided to buy Jewel’s because they are always looking to expand their investment portfolio; they currently own Black Rock Adventure Park and Campground in Conneaut, Ohio. When the opportunity to own a historical venue such as Jewel’s Dance Hall & Saloon came to them, they jumped at the chance to buy and rebuild the famous Jewel’s name!
They are open Wednesday through Saturday from 5 pm until closing (typically 2:30am) and Sunday from 11am until closing (typically 8pm but if it’s busy they could stay open until 2:30am). The age restrictions are no one under 21 after 10pm every day that they’re open. They have younger people and families come in for the line dance lessons on Wednesdays but no one under 21 after 10pm.
If you have never been to Jewel’s, it is well worth it; they not only have one of the smoothest and best maintained dance floors but also one of the friendliest and most enthusiastic line dance teachers, Dee Blansett. She has been teaching at Jewel’s since 2008; I recently took her Wednesday night lesson, which began with open dancing, then she taught both intermediate and beginner dances. Her husband Bob is the DJ!
For this dance, Dee used the song “The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson:
Dee also reviewed these dances:
Dee also teaches partner dances on the first Wednesday of the month; during a break, she reviewed this dance; this step sheet also gives you information about her website:
Jewel’s usual schedule is: Wednesday: Line dance lessons; Thursday: Ladies Night with a DJ; Friday: a mix of Classic Country line dancing/DJ/live music; Saturday: live music; Sunday: Game Day/Fun Day (sports day). Cover charges vary depending upon the entertainment for the evening. Wednesday’s line dance lessons are $5. DJ events are $5 and live music varies but is typically $10/person. Check their schedule on Facebook.
When I asked Kyle what they want Jewel’s to be known for, he replied: “Jewel’s is so well known as a country honkytonk bar with live music and line dancing. We want to bring back the nostalgic idea of bringing in larger Nashville bands like they used to do. We want to give our customers a great place to come unwind after a long week, listen to some great country music and dance the night away! We will continue to update the building and expand bringing back the Jewel’s that it was once known for back in its hay day!”
Dori Yez will continue to write her monthly article here; and may also “guest instruct” at local venues/events!
