Step into a world of rhythm and movement at Glen Echo Park, where the spirit of dance comes alive! Home to three unique dance venues, including the iconic Spanish Ballroom, Glen Echo Park offers an exciting array of social dances for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or taking your first steps, you’ll find a welcoming community and a dance style to love. The historic Spanish Ballroom, a true gem celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2023 and recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to the enduring power of dance.
Glen Echo Park’s social dances are designed to be fun, affordable, and accessible to all. No partner? No problem! No prior dance experience? Even better! Each dance event begins with a beginner-friendly introductory lesson, ensuring everyone feels comfortable hitting the dance floor. And with live music from talented local and national bands at most events, the atmosphere is always electric.
Dance enthusiasts can find events year-round, with regular dances scheduled on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Often, you’ll have a choice of two or even three different dance styles happening simultaneously in different venues, giving you the chance to explore a variety of rhythms and find your passion.
Currently, Glen Echo Park proudly presents a diverse range of dance styles, including:
- Blues
- Contra & Square
- Swing
- Folk
- Waltz
- Tango & Milonga
- Ballroom
- Zouk
- Barn Dances
- Balboa
- Other Latin Dances
Explore new horizons and find your perfect dance style at Glen Echo Park! 2024 New Dance Styles Check out the full Dance Calendar to plan your next dance adventure.
Special Dance Events to Ignite Your Passion
Glen Echo Park goes beyond regular social dances with special partnership events that add extra flair to the dance floor.
Bumper Car Squares: A Unique Dance Experience
Get ready for a square dance experience like no other at Bumper Car Squares, held monthly in the iconic Bumper Car Pavilion! Join us on March 8, 2025, for the next event. Imagine square dancing in this unique space, with live music by The Horsenecks and calling by LP Kelly!
New to square dancing? Don’t worry! An introductory session starts at 7:00 pm sharp, and you’ll be do-si-doing and swinging your partner in no time. No partner, special attire, or prior experience is needed. The Bumper Car Pavilion offers a fantastic wooden floor and cozy radiant heaters to keep you comfortable throughout the evening.
Tickets are available at the door (cash, credit card, and check accepted): $15 for adults, $5 for teens, and FREE for children 12 and under!
Mark your calendars for upcoming Bumper Car Squares dates:
March 8 | April 3 | May 1 | June 5 | September 4 | October 9 | November 6 | December 4
Salsa Nights in the Ballroom Back Room: Feel the Heat
Spice up your Friday nights with Back Room Salsa Nights, a monthly event presented by Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts & Culture! Join us every third Friday in the Ballroom Back Room for a sizzling night of salsa and Latin rhythms.
Learn More and Purchase Tickets to guarantee your spot on the dance floor.
Dance Fitness and More at Glen Echo Park
DANCEFIT FOR BODY & MIND: Move and Groove
Elevate your fitness routine with the DANCEFIT FOR BODY & MIND series! This dance series is designed to keep you moving and uplift your spirits. Discover new dance styles each month in the Ballroom Back Room.
Discover the Rich History of the Spanish Ballroom
The Spanish Ballroom is more than just a dance venue; it’s a landmark with a fascinating history.
Watch this short video to delve into the captivating story of the Spanish Ballroom!
Learn more about the ballroom and the history of Glen Echo Park by visiting our Park History page: click here >>
Be a Part of the Dance Community: Volunteer!
Want to get even more involved? Volunteer for Glen Echo Park Partnership Dances! Donate just one hour of your time to help with set-up or breakdown at a dance event and receive free admission in return!
Even when the park was temporarily closed, the music never stopped! Relive the magic of dance with the Live from the Spanish Ballroom virtual music series, featuring performances from your favorite dance bands. These performances are available on YouTube, so you can dance along anytime!
Glen Echo Park invites you to experience the joy of dance in a welcoming and historic setting. Come and discover the language of dance in the Spanish Ballroom and beyond!
