About every two months, a decidedly unhip Sunday afternoon get together takes place in de Spiegelzaal inside De Markten, or on the Oude Graanmarkt square outside. It’s bang in the heart of the über trendy Dansaertstraat quarter, yet nothing could be more old fashioned than this Salon Dansant. You can watch or you can join in. It’s up to you. The atmosphere is relaxed and the participants come in every age, shape and sexual inclination.

The programme kicks off with a concert by a singer or group that gently hints at retro style without being cheesy or condescending. Next on stage is DJ Oxana who works the dance crowd impeccably. The music is varied and highly camp, and includes Flemish levensliedjes (sentimental songs about real life that will have you crying in the street), Spanish crooners and French nostalgic summer songs. There are no strict rules on how to dance – you can glide across the floor in classic ballroom style, swing, samba or gently shuffle during one of the intimate slow numbers.

So is this just like any other pensioners’ ball or old-fashioned bal populaire? No, says, Pol Vervaeke, who organises the monthly event. “First of all, the mood is set by the mirrors and pillars in the Spiegelzaal itself, which used to be a showroom for displaying the famous crystal chandeliers of Val St Lambert. Secondly, we consciously aim to attract youngsters and children as well – and succeed in doing so.”

The Salon Dansant has been running now for the past three years. “The initiative was originally put forward by various senior clubs that congregate in our centre here. Too small themselves to get the ball rolling, they joined up with volunteers who also loved the idea of an old-fashioned dance fest. So, three years ago, we all decided to surf the upcoming retro wave of music and dance and go for it.”

The organisers have hit exactly the right formula – a carefully-chosen concert with a DJ in a relaxed setting where everyone is in a good mood. It’s welcoming, elegant and affectionate – and with any luck you’ll be able to dance away in a cloud of nostalgia. Welcome to the twilight days.

De Markten

Oude Graanmarkt 5, Brussels

www.demarkten.be