D.C. is far more than just history and politics, and these diverse music and dance events certainly attest to that! Whether you want to sit back and watch the magic or get your groove on, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this summer in the district.
1. Authentic Flamenco
Coming to the historic Howard Theatre, this jaw-dropping Authentic Flamenco production by the Royal Opera of Madrid will make for a night to remember. Originating in Spain, the mesmerizing show features award-winning artists, including internationally renowned flamenco dancer, Yolanda Osuna. The show will only be in D.C. for a limited time from August 31 to September 7, so be sure to snag your tickets while they last!
2. Dancing on the Georgetown Waterfront
This weekly outdoor dance class is the perfect way to shake off some of that mid-week stress. Taking place on the first three Tuesdays in August, these free classes at Georgetown Waterfront Park feature a live DJ and are open to all ages and skill levels. Get ready to lose yourself in the rhythm of the music, including salsa and bachata, at the stunning open-air park! (If you can’t make it to one of the Tuesday evening events, you can still move and groove to the music on the Waterfront every Saturday night through October.)
3. Compagnie Käfig: Pixel
For those seeking a modern dance performance in D.C., this Lyon-based dance group is bound to amaze you. Merging elements of hip hop with modern dance, circus and digital arts, Compagnie Käfig’s Pixel production features incredible acrobatic stunts and cutting-edge digital projection technology. After touring more than 30 countries across the globe, the performance group is coming to The Kennedy Center this summer from August 30 to September 1.
4. Peirce Mill Sunset Dancing
Soak up the charm of a historic site as you take part in a free evening of outdoor music and dancing on August 26. Hosted at Pierce Mill in Rock Creek Park, this Pierce Mill Sunset Dancing event welcomes all ages to enjoy a live string band and square dancing until the stars come out. No prior experience is required to partake in this fun-filled evening!
5. El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico has earned the title of one of Puerto Rico’s greatest dance bands, now boasting nearly 2.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Led by skilled pianist and director Rafael Ithier, the 13-piece salsa group has been together for over half a century! And now, D.C. can get a taste of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico’s vibrant Latin rhythms and vocal harmonies at The Kennedy Center on August 13.
6. Gimme Gimme Disco: A Dance Party Inspired by ABBA
Channel your inner Dancing Queen at this disco dance party inspired by ABBA. Coming to the 9:30 Club on September 1, this energetic dance party will play all of your favorite ABBA songs, among other iconic disco hits from the 70’s and 80’s. Disco attire is encouraged, so get ready to go all out before you dance the night away!
7. Look What You Made Me Do: Taylor Swift Dance Party
Serving up your favorite hits and specialty Swiftie-approved drinks, this Taylor Swift Dance Party at the Howard Theatre is not one to miss. In celebration of the recent release of Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), this epic dance party on July 22 will have you belting your heart out to songs like “Better Than Revenge” and “Sparks Fly.” Tickets are available to those ages 18 and up.