Why confine yourself to dancing in a packed pub or club when you can let loose in the great outdoors? From salsa to swing — with plenty in between — there’s something in the city this summer to suit every fancy. So put on your dancing shoes, and get on out there.
Vinyl NightsGreat for: reliving Studio 54
Courtesy of Vinyl NightsThis outdoor party is a return to form: All the music comes from a collection of vinyl records, and the term DJ actually stands for disc jockey. Now in its third year, this massive outdoor block party is a celebration of “everything New York,” says Rebecca Lynn, brand manager of Mobile Mondays, the crew behind Vinyl Nights. “You’re in front of the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden … ” Upcoming DJs include Joey Carvello, DJ Woof, Just Blaze, Misbehaviour and Boogie Blind — spinning disco and house music. The crowd is a mix of New Yorkers happy to be off work, commuters on their way home to the suburbs, tourists and anyone else looking to blow off some steam with a dance beat. “It’s infectious,” says Lynn. Free. Thursdays through Sept. 13, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m, Plaza 33, 33rd Street and Seventh Avenue; MobileMondaysNYC.com
Magic Carousel SundaysGreat for: bass drops
Eric KramerGear up those arms for some fist-pumping. This pop-up dayclub at Coney Island Art Walls is a laid-back interpretation of Las Vegas’ Encore Beach Club. The 6,000-square-foot turf lawn is equipped with a stage, LED wall, CO2 cannons and a bar. Most events are 21-plus. Big name mixers such as Lil Jon and DJ Pauly D have already appeared this summer, and Brody Jenner takes the stage on Sunday. The colorful murals and amusement park in the background make the whole scene Instagram-ready. $10 to $25. Sundays, noon, Coney Island Art Walls, 3050 Stillwell Ave., Coney Island; MagicCarouselSundays.com
Soul SummitGreat for: getting your freak on
Courtesy of Soul Summit MusicThis house and disco party takes place on the grass at Fort Greene Park. While some people listen to the music from the comfort of their picnic blankets, most partygoers get on their feet. The crowd ranges from 20-somethings to baby boomers, says Tabu, a Soul Summit organizer. “It’s for people who remember what New York was like before gentrification,” he says. “There’s no velvet ropes, no bottle service. My favorite part is when I see people saying, ‘I haven’t seen this person since this club closed.’” Free. Sunday, 3 to 8 p.m., Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn; SoulSummitMusic.com
Midsummer Night SwingGreat for: learning new tricks
Kevin YatarolaGet footloose at this series of dance classes in everything from honky-tonk two-step to the Southern shag and big-band swing. Lincoln Center’s annual shindig whips out an illustrious lineup of instructors to break down the steps. Once you get the hang of it, the floor opens up with a live concert. Each night features live music and a DJ set to that night’s theme, so you can practice your moves. The Harlem Renaissance Orchestra will end the season on a high note — and with a lindy-hop dance contest. $17 to $25. Saturday and July 10-14, 6 p.m., Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center; LincolnCenter.org
¡Arriba!: Latin Dance PartyGreat for: date night
Liz Ligon/Courtesy of the High LineGrab a partner! First, get a salsa lesson from Bombazo Dance Company, led by salsa legend Milteri Tucker Concepcion. During the lesson, international spinner DJ Rimarkable sets the scene. Later, the floor opens up as Cocomama, an all-female salsa band, takes the stage. With members from five countries and four continents, this diverse group performs a blend of genres including soul, Afro-Caribbean and Latin American. The sun sets as you dance, making the perfect backdrop to the skyscrapers. Free. Aug. 1, 6 to 9 p.m., the High Line at 16th Street; TheHighLine.org
