Some people just need to dance, whether to unwind after a rough week, to get the blood flowing after sitting all day, or simply because it makes them feel fantastic. Dancing is good for the body and soul. It benefits cardiovascular health, increases muscle strength, flexibility, and balance, and it’s exceptionally good for mental health.
According to the British Science Association, “Dance has been scientifically proven to reduce levels of cortisol caused by chronic stress. It also causes the brain to release dopamine – a natural mood booster, and endorphins – a natural painkiller.” Though it may seem counterintuitive, dance is an exercise that actually helps one to relax. In addition, the close consensual contact one experiences through dance releases oxytocin, the “social” hormone that creates positive bonds between people. For those ready to make the ultimate mind-body connection, dance is just what the doctor ordered.
Napa Valley offers many choices when it comes to dance styles, including ballroom and swing, salsa, bachata and Latin social, jazz and hip hop, world dance, belly dancing and hula, line dancing, country swing, tap, Broadway, and modern. There is no shortage of options; choosing comes down to taste in music, preferred setting and crowd, and mood. Possibilities abound for everyone from beginners to experts, introverts to extroverts, and those who prefer structured dance styles versus those who love going free-form.
Several regional locations offer professional instruction for those looking to learn the basics of dance or who need refresher lessons. For couples heading off on a romantic cruise or planning a weekend of nightclubbing in the Bay Area, a few private lessons with Christine Blanton of Wine Country Dance might be in order. Blanton, long-time owner of the Renaissance Ballroom in San Francisco, offers instruction in all types of ballroom dancing for beginners through experienced couples. // www.winecountrydance.com
Napa Valley College is also an excellent spot for learning to dance. For those unsure of which style to pursue, classes at the college might provide the answer. NVC offers everything from world dance, Latin social, and salsa to street jazz and hip hop, and Broadway to tap dancing. The college’s offerings vary from semester to semester and, depending on the class, can be taken for credit or audited at no charge. Similarly, the City of Napa Parks and Recreation offers a variety of dance classes throughout the year. Those schedules can be found on their portal. // www.catalog.napavalley.edu/courses/dans // www.secure.rec1.com/CA/napa-ca/catalog
Two studios in Napa offer social dance classes, private lessons, and “club” nights. Arthur Murray Napa, located at 929 Vallejo St., teaches classic dance styles such as waltzes, salsa, swing, tango, and the like, with classes and events tailored for couples and singles. Students enjoy top-notch instruction, as well as themed social gatherings where they can put their newfound skills into action. A popular new venue, Slow Fox Dance Hall, at 600 Trancas St., has similar offerings in a wide range of styles and at varied skill levels, offering themed dance events twice a week. // www.arthurmurraynapa.com // www.slowfoxdancehall.com
A couple of local social dance organizations offer events at the Napa Senior Center at 1500 Jefferson Ave., namely Boots and Belles, headed up by square dance caller Gary Kendall, and the Napa Ballroom and Social Dancers, who feature a wide range of social dance styles. Schedules for square dancing, including events in neighboring communities, can be found at the Northern California Square Dance Association, while the Napa Ballroom and Social Dancer website lists local and quasi-local venues for social dancing. These dance organizations provide the opportunity for avid dancers to fraternize regularly with those who share their proclivity for specific dance types. // www.ncsda.com // www.napaballroomdancers.com
For those seeking less structured venues to bust a move, Napa Valley does not disappoint. There are local clubs and bars where dancing to live music or a DJ is offered late into the evening while also partaking in libations and tasty food. Be Bubbly on First St. has a great vibe, festive bubbles, and some of the region’s best live music and DJs. There is no dress code; one can come as they are or get dressed up; anyone will feel right at home. Be Bubbly’s impressive lineup of performers offers disco, Top 40, R&B, funk, and almost every other danceable music style. Most music events are on weekends, but they do throw in an occasional weekday event for locals. // www.bebubblynapa.com
The Fink is downtown Napa’s trendiest new nightclub, featuring great cocktails alongside New Orleans-style jazz, hot gypsy jazz, western swing, and American songbook. Guests are encouraged to don their dancing shoes if so inclined. Ditto for Downtown Joe’s, which is one of the valley’s longest-standing music venues. It’s a popular places locals go to round out a dinner date with some local craft beer, late-night snacks, and dancing. // www.thefinknapa.com // www.downtownjoes.com
Other dancing opportunities can be had at the Hollywood Room at the Napa Valley Distillery. This nightclub is ramping up to be one of the most popular spots in town, with a monthly roster of live music and DJs, and featuring locally made artisanal spirits. // www.napadistillery.com
JaM Cellars is also well known for hosting live music events and late-night JaM Sessions on weekends, including after-hours BottleRock shows. // www.jamcellars.com
For those in the mood for salsa, bachata, cumbia, merengue, hip hop, and reggaeton, know that the Karma Lounge at 902 Enterprise Way is the place to be for sexy Latin dancing. And word has it that the soon-to-be-opened beer garden, The Garden, by Tannery Bend Beerworks, will feature great local DJs and has made ample room for dancing. // www.facebook.com/LatinNightsinNapa/ // www.tannerybendbeerworks.com/location/tannery-garden/
Since numerous ad hoc events pop up all over the valley, often at local wineries and resorts, it’s best to watch local event sites for the latest parties with DJs and live music. Here are a few to bookmark:
