Fresno in the 1980s was more than just agricultural fields; it was a vibrant hub of nightlife, especially when it came to dance clubs. For those of us who spent our youth on the dance floors of Fresno, the memories are still vivid. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back to some of the most iconic Dance Clubs In Fresno that defined the era and kept us moving all night long.
First on the list has to be THE PLAYPEN. Located on Blackstone Avenue, south of Shields, on the west side, it was conveniently near Nichola’s Restaurant. This round-shaped club was legendary for its cutting-edge 80s electro-funk and hip-hop music. Think artists like Freeez, Debbie Deb, Trinere, and Fonda Rae – the soundtrack to countless unforgettable nights. The energy in The Playpen was infectious, making it a prime spot for anyone seeking the coolest sounds and moves in dance clubs in Fresno.
Venturing slightly outside Fresno, but still a crucial part of the scene, was ZACK’S in Clovis. This was the go-to teen and high school dance club, blasting all the new wave and dance club anthems of the time. Madonna’s “Burning Up,” Dominatrix’s “Dominatrix Sleeps Tonight,” The Cure’s “Let’s Go to Bed,” and Tin Tin’s “Kiss Me” were just a taste of the music that filled the air. Zack’s had a distinctive ‘barn’ atmosphere, characterized by wooden beams and a DJ booth perched upstairs, creating a unique and energetic space for young dancers in the Fresno area. It was a must-visit for anyone looking for dance clubs in Fresno and the surrounding areas during their teen years.
Back in Fresno proper, KNOCK THREE TIMES, situated at the Picadilly Inn on Shaw Avenue, offered a different but equally compelling vibe. The music here was a fantastic mix of 80s new wave hits blended seamlessly with 80s R&B, soul, and electro. It was this eclectic soundtrack that made Knock Three Times a favorite, and even a place to show off your moves – winning the dance contest there was a badge of honor! This venue truly catered to diverse tastes within the dance clubs in Fresno scene.
EXPRESS, located in downtown Fresno on Blackstone near Belmont, was another standout. What made Express unique was its incredibly mixed crowd. It wasn’t defined by any single demographic; gay, straight, bi, everyone, guys and girls alike, came to Express to dance. This inclusivity created a special atmosphere of freedom and fun. While it reportedly closed in the 90s and possibly relocated further north on Blackstone to a larger venue, the original downtown Express holds a special place in the memory of Fresno’s 80s club-goers as a truly mixed and vibrant dance club in Fresno.
There were also other memorable dance clubs in Fresno downtown, though some names escape memory now. One was an underground spot, notable for a tunnel or bridge feature inside, a large dance floor, and a cool, high-tech décor that was very 80s. Another, located perhaps on Clinton Avenue near Highway 99, was always packed and known for its great music. These unnamed clubs further contributed to the rich tapestry of dance clubs in Fresno during the 80s.
Visiting Fresno today, one can’t help but wonder about the current dance scene. The vibrant energy of the 80s dance clubs in Fresno seems to be a thing of the past. Has the spirit of dancing simply moved on, or is there a new generation waiting to ignite the dance floors once again? The question remains: does anyone go out dancing in Fresno in [current year]? For those of us who remember the golden era, the search for that same electric atmosphere in dance clubs in Fresno continues.
