Hoedowns aren't the type of thing Chicagoans clear their schedules for, but then again, most hoedowns aren't quite like Barn Dance Apocalypse, the annual underground dance party put on by the Golden Horse Ranch Band. It surfaced for its tenth installment at Thalia Hall (1807 S. Allport St., Pilsen, 312-526-3851) on Saturday.

The packed crowd joined in all manner of Western dances (with a quick tutorial before each dance from bandmember Annie Coleman), and people were clearly into it—even those who struggled with the steps. The dance floor was a sea of cowboy boots and Western shirts. Guests took only the occasional break for a beer or to watch the action from the second-floor balcony, but for the most part, this was a raucous and wild night in all the best ways.

Here's what all we saw when we stopped in.