First Saturday Swing

For Californians, especially those in the vibrant San Diego area, discovering a regular event that combines the timeless joy of swing dancing with a welcoming community is a true find. First Saturday Swing is precisely that – San Diego's largest monthly swing dance event, providing an energetic and friendly atmosphere for dancers of all levels. Held at the spacious Infinity Dance Sport Center, this event is designed to get you moving, whether you're taking your very first steps in swing or you're a seasoned Lindy Hopper.

In a state known for its diverse dance scenes, First Saturday Swing stands out by offering a consistent and high-quality experience dedicated to the infectious rhythms of swing music. It's more than just a dance hall; it's a social gathering, a learning opportunity, and a vibrant community hub. This article will provide you with a detailed look into what makes First Saturday Swing a beloved tradition for locals, covering its location, services, highlights, and why it's the perfect place to embrace the joy of swing dance in San Diego.

First Saturday Swing takes place at the Infinity Dance Sport Center, located at 7243 Engineer Rd, San Diego, CA 92111, USA. This well-known dance facility is situated in the Kearny Mesa neighborhood of San Diego, making it highly accessible for attendees from across the city and surrounding regions in California.

The venue's location offers convenient access just off the 805 Freeway (typically via the Clairemont Mesa exit, turning towards Walmart and then onto Engineer Road). This ensures a straightforward drive from various parts of San Diego, including downtown, North County, and East County. A significant advantage highlighted by event organizers and attendees is the "easy and free" parking in the surrounding business parking lots and on the street, as other businesses in this light-industrial neighborhood are closed during event hours. This eliminates one of the common frustrations of attending events in a bustling city. The area is also described as feeling very safe, contributing to a comfortable experience for all who attend. Being in Kearny Mesa also means it's a short drive from Convoy Street, a popular hub for diverse dining options, allowing for pre- or post-dance meals.

First Saturday Swing is designed to be a comprehensive swing dance experience, offering a range of services that cater to both new and experienced dancers.

• Complimentary Dance Lessons: A major draw for First Saturday Swing is that "Lesson included with the dance and they have both a beginner and intermediate class." These free classes typically start at 8 PM, before the main social dance. The beginner class often covers foundational dances like East Coast Swing/Jitterbug and Beginner Lindy Hop, making it easy for newcomers to get started without any prior experience or a partner.
• Social Dancing: The core of the event is the social dance party, which usually runs from 9 PM to 12:30 AM. This is where attendees can practice their new moves, dance with different partners, and simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The event sees "more than 100 dancers present, ranging from beginners to very advanced."
• Music Variety: First Saturday Swing features "DJ music" throughout the night, playing a variety of music from the jazz era of the 1920s to the 1950s, including big band jazz and swing. They sometimes feature exclusive live band performances during special events, further enhancing the authenticity of the experience.
• Inclusive Environment: The event is "Open to all ages and skill levels, no partner needed!" This emphasis on inclusivity creates a welcoming atmosphere where individuals and couples can feel comfortable learning and dancing.
• Refreshments Provided: To keep dancers energized, "complimentary soda, chips and other snacks are provided." A water dispenser is also available, ensuring attendees stay hydrated during their lively dance sessions.
• Birthday Celebrations: First Saturday Swing offers free entry for those celebrating their birthday in the given month, which is a nice touch that adds to the community feel. Birthday jams and welcoming out-of-town dancers often happen during breaks.

First Saturday Swing boasts several compelling features that make it a standout monthly event for the San Diego swing dance community.

• Beginner-Friendly Atmosphere: Despite attracting advanced dancers, the event is "quite beginner-friendly." The inclusion of clear, easy-to-follow introductory lessons ensures that anyone, regardless of prior experience, can participate and enjoy the social dancing. Reviewers consistently praise the "easy to follow and very helpful" instruction.
• Structured Learning Opportunities: The availability of both "beginner and intermediate class" levels allows dancers to progress their skills. While one review noted only two levels are taught at the event itself, for a monthly social dance, this is a substantial offering that provides a solid foundation in swing dance fundamentals (Lindy Hop and East Coast Swing/Jitterbug). The instructors are also helpful in guiding participants to the right level.
• Large and Quality Dance Floor: Being hosted at Infinity Dance Sport Center means access to a "large, dance floor" that is described as being of "very good" quality. A good dance floor is essential for comfort and safety during swing dancing, enhancing the overall experience.
• Vibrant and Friendly Community: Reviews consistently highlight that "People are really friendly and it's a really fun!" The event fosters a warm and welcoming community, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home and for regulars to connect and socialize.
• Excellent Value: With an admission fee (typically $12) that includes both classes and the social dance, plus complimentary snacks and drinks, First Saturday Swing offers significant value for a full night of entertainment and learning.
• Consistent Monthly Event: As the name suggests, this event happens reliably on the first Saturday of each month, providing a consistent and anticipated gathering for the local swing dance scene.
• Ample and Free Parking: The ease and freeness of parking in the surrounding lots are a major convenience, alleviating a common stress factor for attendees.

For the most current information about First Saturday Swing, including specific dates, class details, and any special announcements, it's best to check their online platforms. For general inquiries:

Address: 7243 Engineer Rd, San Diego, CA 92111, USA (Infinity Dance Sport Center)

Phone: (858) 309-4192

Mobile Phone: +1 858-309-4192

You can also typically find updated information and interact with the community through their Facebook page (often facebook.com/FirstSaturdaySwing/) or their website (firstsaturdayswing.wordpress.com).

For Californians, particularly those in the San Diego area, First Saturday Swing is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended event for embracing the joy of swing dancing. Its consistent monthly schedule on the first Saturday provides a reliable and anticipated gathering point for the local community, making it easy to integrate into a regular social calendar. This predictability is a significant advantage for busy locals looking to plan their active and fun weekends.

The event's commitment to being "beginner-friendly" is a massive draw. With complimentary, easy-to-follow dance lessons offered at both beginner and intermediate levels before the main social dance, it removes any intimidation factor for newcomers. This inclusive approach means anyone can walk in without prior experience or a partner and quickly be integrated into the fun, truly embodying California's welcoming spirit. The helpful instruction ensures that participants gain confidence and skills, enhancing their overall enjoyment of the night.

Furthermore, the vibrant and friendly atmosphere, coupled with "good music" and a spacious, high-quality dance floor at the Infinity Dance Sport Center, creates an ideal environment for social interaction and exercise. It's a place where you can not only learn new dance moves but also meet new people, connect with friends, and become part of a supportive community. The added benefits of free and easy parking, along with complimentary snacks and drinks, further enhance the value proposition, making it an accessible and enjoyable night out. For San Diegans looking for a fun, active, and social way to spend their weekend, First Saturday Swing is undeniably a premier local destination.

First Saturday Swing

7243 Engineer Rd, San Diego, CA 92111, USA