CHICAGO SUMMERDANCE
From June 27 to September 15, this weekly outdoor event features free instruction and live music showcasing dance styles from all corners of the globe.
A spirited event that brings people of all ages and skill levels onto the outdoor dance floor, SummerDance offers free, introductory one-hour dance lessons led by professional instructors followed by two hours of live music and dancing. From ballroom to Bollywood, the diverse musical selection ranges each week at this global dance party. Show off your skills and take home some new moves as the pros teach everything from La Cumbia, Flamenco, Swing, Klezmer, Steppin' and more.
2013 SCHEDULE
SummerDance will take place Thursday to Sunday evenings, weather permitting, from June 27 – September 15.
Thursday - Saturday
- 6-7 pm: Dance lessons led by professional instructors
- 7:30-9:30 pm: Live music and dancing
Sunday
- 4-5 pm: Dance lessons led by professional instructors
- 5-7 pm: Live music and dancing
Check back for the full monthly schedule to be announced in early June and visit the official website at ChicagoSummerDance.org for the latest updates and information on the performing bands.
DANCE FLOOR
The Spirit of Music Garden (601 S. Michigan Avenue) in downtown Grant Park hosts the weekly series on a 4,900-square-foot, open-air dance floor made of 100% recycled materials.
Titled Chicago Ground Cover, the SummerDance floor was designed by Chicago artist Dan Peterman out of recycled plastic and first installed in 1997 at the original site along Michigan Avenue at Washington Street (now Millennium Park). Initially taking up 2,500 square feet, it was first expanded to 3,500 square feet in 1999, and was then expanded to 4,600 square feet.
In 2011, it was renovated and further expanded to 4,900 square-feet to accommodate the increasing number of SummerDance visitors. Last year more than 100,000 people enjoyed the Chicago SummerDance series, making it the most established and popular dance series of its kind in the United States.
While you plan your Chicago trip, check out the Events Calendar, updated daily with other things to do in Chicago during your stay. And for more fresh itinerary ideas, get insider tips and recommendations from our blog Chicago Like a Local.
