Woman dancing alone in a club confidently
Scientifically speaking, all you need to dance is your body and the rhythm. The walls of your room might be your witness, but stepping out to dance alone in public? That’s a different story. The idea of hitting a club or a music venue solo can feel daunting. We often associate dancing with groups of friends, a shared social experience. “Rolling up to the club by myself” might sound like something far from a fun night out. But what if embracing the solo dance floor was the key to unlocking a new level of freedom and enjoyment?
This summer, I discovered the exhilarating world of solo dancing out of sheer chance. A last-minute cancellation left me with a choice: miss out on a DJ set I was excited about, or venture out to Public Records in Brooklyn alone. It was a significant night, marking the end of an old job and the dawn of a new chapter. The urge to dance and celebrate was too strong to ignore. So, instead of scrambling for a replacement companion, I decided to go dancing alone.
Walking into Public Records that night, I was a mix of awkwardness and anticipation. But by the time I left, I was buzzing with euphoria. It wasn’t just a good night; it was genuinely one of the best nights of my life. Smiling, energized, and yes, sweaty, I danced with abandon and realized I wasn’t the only one. I saw other women, confidently owning their space on the dance floor, dancing solo too.
Since that night, I’ve become a convert to solo dancing. Each time I embrace a night out on my own, I leave feeling incredibly empowered. The freedom of not depending on others to experience the joy of music and movement is truly liberating.
Perhaps you’ve never considered going dancing alone. It might not be on your immediate radar. But life has a funny way of presenting unexpected opportunities. Friends might cancel, a unique band you love might announce a show in your city, or you might find yourself with a free Friday night in a new place. In those moments, why not consider the exciting possibility of flying solo? If you’re intrigued, here are my essential tips to ensure your solo dance night is nothing short of spectacular.
Woman confidently choosing outfit for solo dance night
Why Dance Alone? Discover the Joy of Solo Grooving
Dancing alone isn’t just about filling a free evening; it’s a powerful act of self-indulgence and liberation. It’s about prioritizing your joy, your musical taste, and your need to move. In a world often dictated by group dynamics and shared plans, solo dancing is a rebellion in favor of personal pleasure. It’s an opportunity to connect with music on a deeply personal level, free from the constraints of coordinating with others or compromising on your preferences. The empowerment that comes from confidently taking up space and enjoying yourself, entirely on your own terms, is unmatched. It’s a chance to discover a new facet of yourself, your confidence, and your capacity for joy.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Go Dancing Alone and Love It
Going dancing alone might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can become your favorite way to experience nightlife. Here’s your guide to confidently stepping onto the dance floor solo and having an incredible time.
1. Curate Your Perfect Playlist: Embrace Your Musical Taste
For once, the night is all about your musical desires. Forget compromising on genres or enduring music you don’t love. Solo dancing is the ultimate opportunity to be musically selfish. Love jazz? Find a jazz club. Craving funk? Seek out a funk night. Mosh pits your thing? Go rock out! The key is to choose a musical event that resonates deeply with you. Ask yourself: Would I happily dance to this music alone in my living room? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track. For me, it’s always house music—those rhythmic, wordless beats that move your soul.
Resources like Resident Advisor are invaluable for finding local music events that match your taste, wherever you are. Before my first solo dance adventure at Public Records, I checked Resident Advisor and saw the DJ was playing disco and house – my perfect sonic cocktail. Knowing I’d love the music gave me a foundation of confidence, even as I was unsure about the solo experience itself.
Woman confidently dressed for a night of solo dancing
2. Dress to Impress Yourself: Confidence is Key
This isn’t about group photos or impressing anyone else; it’s about boosting your own sense of “I’ve got this.” What you wear can significantly impact how you feel. Choose an outfit that makes you feel fantastic, powerful, and ready to own the dance floor. Maybe it’s that special piece you usually save for big occasions – well, this is a special occasion: celebrating yourself! Or perhaps you feel most confident in classic all-black attire, comfortable yet chic.
Whatever you choose, wear it with pride. Walking into a venue alone takes a certain kind of courage, so dress in a way that amplifies your self-assurance. When I go out solo, I still follow my usual getting-ready ritual as if I were meeting friends. Makeup, perfume, a stylish top, and comfortable sneakers are my go-tos—ensuring I feel good and can dance freely all night.
Woman waiting in line for a club alone, appearing confident
3. Time it Right: Arrive Fashionably Late (But Not Too Late)
Unless it’s a ticketed event with assigned spots or you want to be right at the front, consider arriving after the party has already started. Walking into a crowded venue where people are already immersed in the music can actually make you feel less conspicuous. You blend into the energy rather than feeling like you’re making a grand, solo entrance.
Often, there’s a line outside venues, which is perfect. Standing in line alone becomes unremarkable; everyone is just waiting to get in and have fun. Initially, approaching the bouncer at Public Records solo triggered a wave of self-consciousness. What are they thinking of me? But then I reframed my perspective. They likely assume I’m meeting friends inside, or simply running a bit behind schedule – a common scenario. The truth is, everyone is usually preoccupied with their own night and their own anticipation. Focus on your excitement and getting ready to enjoy your experience.
Woman scoping out the dance floor in a club alone
4. Navigate the Venue Like a Pro: Scope and Settle In
Think of this as your pre-dance adventure. Once inside, take a moment to get your bearings. Head to the restroom to freshen up, take a quick walk towards the bar area, or even pretend to be looking for someone. This gives you a purpose while you adjust to the environment and the energy of the place.
When you’re ready to hit the dance floor, observe the scene. Look for an open space near a friendly-looking group, or even better, spot other solo dancers and position yourself nearby. If you’re a woman dancing alone, finding a spot that feels safe and comfortable is paramount. While I’ve always felt safe during my solo dance outings, it’s always wise to be mindful of your surroundings.
In my experience, prime dance spots are near the front by the stage or DJ booth—or towards the back where there’s typically more room to move. Find your comfortable zone and start subtly moving to the music as you make your way to your chosen spot.
Grandmother dancing with joy and freedom
5. Channel Your Inner Abuela: Dance Like Nobody’s Watching (Because They Probably Aren’t)
My Cuban grandmother is my ultimate inspiration for carefree dancing. Whether it’s during dinner, at the doctor’s office, or even in Costco, if she hears a beat, she’ll dance. For her, and for many Cubans, dancing is pure, unadulterated joy. She doesn’t need an audience, a crew, or a partner. She dances simply because it feels good and it’s fun.
Embrace that “I don’t give a hoot” energy on the dance floor. Let the music take over. Move your body. Dance like no one’s watching. If it helps, pretend you’re slightly tipsy, or channel the spirit of a 98-year-old grandma who’s utterly unconcerned with others’ opinions. Both of these mental tricks have surprisingly effective at helping me loosen up, care less, and move more freely.
Woman leaving a club alone at night, feeling satisfied
6. Freedom to Leave (or Stay): Control Your Night
If you’re not enjoying yourself, guess what? You have the absolute freedom to leave! No need to check in with anyone, no need to wait for friends. Conversely, if you are having an amazing time, you can stay out as late (or as early) as you desire. On my first solo dance night, I set a personal goal to stay for just thirty minutes and ended up dancing for three hours! Whenever you decide to head home, prioritize safety by ordering a ride-sharing service or ensuring a secure journey back.
The best part of solo dancing is the complete autonomy. No one will judge you for leaving early, for dancing until the very last song, for multiple bathroom breaks, for attempting a questionable dance move, or for simply enjoying the music in your own way. You are in total control of your enjoyment, all night long.
Woman smiling and feeling empowered after dancing alone
Bonus Tips for Solo Dance Floor Domination
(AKA other steps outside my comfort zone)
- Showing up solo and sober: Elevate the experience further by going booze-free. My first solo dance night was also a sober one. Discover the natural high that comes from pure music and movement, without any liquid courage.
- Be open to connecting (optional): Fueled by post-dance euphoria, I once reached out to the DJ, 4AM NYC, to express my appreciation for her set. She revealed that her event, Spiritual Mental Physical, focuses on creating fun, substance-free nights. It was a serendipitous connection! Consider being open to similar connections – you might be surprised.
Tatiana Gallardo is a writer, illustrator, and enthusiastic dancer. Find her on Instagram @vividtatiana.
