Front Royal’s Dueling Disco Returns With Big Moves and Bigger Mission

Front Royal is getting ready to trade hiking boots for dancing shoes as the Hike Kidz Foundation plans a lively summer fundraiser with a strong local mission.

The nonprofit has announced its second annual Dueling Disco, set for June 27, 2026, at the Shenandoah Valley Golf Club. The event begins at 6 p.m. and promises an evening of music, friendly rivalry, and community impact.

Dueling Disco brings together local leaders, business owners, and public servants—known as “Dance Off Heroes”—who take to the dance floor to raise money for children in need across Warren County. Each participant builds support before the event, encouraging donations that help fund programs that provide clothing and emergency assistance to local families.

This year’s competition includes a notable twist: there are no rules on the dance floor. Organizers say competitors are free to get creative, even inviting guest dancers to help win over the crowd and judges.

One of the biggest storylines centers on returning dancer Colin Miller of Warren County Public Schools. Last year, Miller became a fan favorite before being eliminated—not by the judges, but by Sgt. Kristen Hajduk, who earned the Advantage Card after raising the most money. Her strategic move cut Miller’s run short. Organizers say the loss stung, and Miller nearly declined to return before deciding to step back into the spotlight for another shot at the Mirror Ball Trophy.

The 2026 lineup features a wide range of community figures, including Dr. David Martin, interim county administrator; Michael Walker, owner of Tried and True Tattoo; and Sgt. Anthony Clingerman of the Front Royal Police Department and Amber Vietenthal of Hike Construction. Also competing are Parson Brown of Brickhouse Bar & Grill; Corey McCauley of Warren County Fire and Rescue; Brett Bremont of Play Favorites; Ryan Rutherford of The River 95.3; Dr. Troy Wright of Warren County Public Schools; Hugh Henry of the Warren County Board of Supervisors; Zachary Henderson, representing Warren County; and returning competitor Colin Miller.

Judging the competition will be a panel of well-known local names, including Nikki Foster of the Chamber of Commerce, Bill Long of Cars Changing Lives, Timmy Mawyer—last year’s champion from the Fire Department—and George Klein of the Board of Supervisors. A surprise guest judge will also join the panel.

Fundraising remains a key part of the event. Supporters can visit duelingdisco.com to back their favorite dancer. The top fundraiser earns the powerful Advantage Card, which can be used strategically during the competition—just as it was last year.

Beyond the dancing, the evening carries a deeper purpose. The winner will have the honor of presenting the keys to a donated vehicle to a local single parent with children through the Cars Changing Lives program. Organizers say that moment adds extra motivation for competitors to give their all.

The night will also include silent and live auctions, the first reveal of the 2026 Hold My Heart collection, and the presentation of the Mirror Ball Trophy, sponsored by Jean’s Jewelers. Choreography is being led by Amy of Dance Arts VA.

For those still hoping to join the spotlight, organizers are bringing back a public warm-up dance-off. Last year’s winner, Hugh Henry, earned a spot in this year’s main competition through that event, showing that anyone can step up and become a Dance Off Hero.

Early bird tickets are available through April for $100, and sponsorships and auction donations are still being accepted. Current sponsors include Amanda Slate, Jean’s Jewelers, and First Bank.

The Hike Kidz Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Front Royal, focuses on helping local children access basic needs so they can succeed. Through programs like Clothe the Kidz and The Grace Fund, the group works to make sure no child goes without essentials.

As the music gets ready to play and the competition heats up, one question remains: Who will be the 2026 Dueling Disco Dance Off Hero?

Click here for tickets.