Tampa Bay Beach Boppers

For residents across Florida, particularly those in the vibrant Tampa Bay area, discovering a unique blend of historical dance, lively social gatherings, and a passionate community is a true find. The Tampa Bay Beach Boppers stands as a beloved "dance hall" in the truest sense—a non-profit dance club dedicated to preserving and promoting the diverse styles of shag and swing dancing. Founded in 1989 and incorporated in 1990, this organization offers more than just dance events; it provides a welcoming space where Floridians can learn, practice, and celebrate these classic American dance forms, fostering both physical activity and strong social connections.

The Tampa Bay Beach Boppers is a testament to the enduring appeal of swing and shag, dance styles known by various names across the country, including West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing, Imperial Swing, Bop, Jitterbug, and Hand Dancing. Regardless of the nomenclature, these are all forms of social partner dancing that encourage fun, rhythm, and connection. As a member of the American Bop Association and the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs, the Tampa Bay Beach Boppers upholds a standard of excellence and authenticity in its offerings. This commitment to cultural preservation, combined with a focus on creating an inclusive and enjoyable atmosphere, makes the Tampa Bay Beach Boppers an invaluable local resource for anyone in Florida looking to immerse themselves in the world of social dance.

The Tampa Bay Beach Boppers holds events at various locations, though their primary mailing address and a frequent venue for their "Beach Boppers Dance Night" events is 6918 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, USA. This location is situated in North Tampa, making it highly accessible for a wide range of residents across the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, including those from Tampa, Carrollwood, Lutz, and Temple Terrace.

North Florida Avenue is a major north-south artery in Tampa, ensuring excellent visibility and straightforward access for attendees. For those traveling by car, the venue's location often provides convenient parking options, a practical consideration for a social event. Furthermore, the area is well-served by Tampa's public transportation network. HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) bus routes frequently operate along North Florida Avenue, with stops conveniently located near the venue. This public transit access offers a viable alternative for individuals who prefer not to drive or who rely on public transport. The Tampa Bay Beach Boppers also hosts events at other locations, such as the American Legion Post 111 (a frequent Friday night venue) and sometimes larger annual events like "Beach Boogie" at resorts like Sirata Beach Resort, further expanding their reach across the region. This strategic use of multiple, accessible venues ensures that the joy of shag and swing dancing is available to a broad community of Floridians.

Services Offered

• Social Dance Events: The club regularly hosts social dance nights, providing opportunities for members and guests to practice and enjoy shag and swing dancing. These are typically held multiple times a month, often on Fridays.
• Dance Lessons: They offer free lessons during their dance events, providing an excellent opportunity for newcomers to learn the basics of shag and swing from experienced dancers.
• Preservation of Shag and Swing Dancing: As a non-profit organization, a core service is their dedication to preserving and promoting various forms of shag and swing dancing.
• Annual "Beach Boogie" Event: The club hosts a major multi-day event called "Beach Boogie," which draws dancers from across the region and beyond, featuring workshops, social dancing, and performances.
• Community Building: By organizing regular dance events, the club fosters a strong sense of community among dance enthusiasts in the Tampa Bay area.
• Music for Dance: Events feature music suitable for shag and swing, ensuring the right rhythm and tempo for enjoyable social dancing. The club confirms music is licensed with ASCAP and BMI.
• Affiliation with Dance Associations: Their membership in the American Bop Association and the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs ensures adherence to established dance forms and connection to a broader dance community.

Features / Highlights

• Non-Profit Organization: As a non-profit founded in 1989, the club's primary focus is on promoting dance and community, rather than commercial gain, fostering a genuine passion for the art form.
• Dedication to Shag and Swing: A unique highlight is their specific dedication to preserving and celebrating the distinct styles of shag and swing dancing, including variations like bop, jitterbug, and hand dancing.
• Free Dance Lessons: The provision of free lessons at their dance events is a significant highlight, making these dance forms accessible to beginners and encouraging new participants.
• Vibrant Social Atmosphere: The events are designed for social interaction, providing a welcoming environment for individuals and couples to meet new people and enjoy dancing.
• Regular Dance Schedule: With events typically held twice a month on Fridays at venues like American Legion Post 111, plus other special events, there are consistent opportunities to dance.
• "Beach Boogie" Major Event: The annual "Beach Boogie" is a significant draw, offering a concentrated experience of dance workshops and social dancing over several days.
• Community of Enthusiasts: The club has fostered a loyal community of dancers passionate about shag and swing, creating a friendly and supportive environment for all.
• Membership Benefits: While specific benefits aren't detailed, being a member of a non-profit club often comes with advantages like reduced event fees or exclusive access to certain gatherings.

Contact Information

Address: 6918 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, USA

Phone: (863) 452-1568

For residents across Florida, especially within the dynamic Tampa Bay region, the Tampa Bay Beach Boppers offers an exceptional and highly suitable local point of interest. Its appeal to locals is multifaceted: it provides a unique opportunity to engage with and preserve the rich history of shag and swing dancing, all within a vibrant, community-focused setting. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or an absolute beginner curious about these iconic American dance styles, the club's commitment to offering free lessons at their regular social events makes it incredibly accessible and welcoming.

Beyond the dance itself, the Tampa Bay Beach Boppers fosters a genuine sense of belonging. It's a place where you can meet new people, build lasting friendships, and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of dance in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With consistently scheduled events at convenient locations around Tampa, including their annual "Beach Boogie," this non-profit dance club is an invaluable asset to Florida's recreational and cultural landscape, inviting everyone to step onto the dance floor and experience the pure joy of shag and swing.

This video offers a basic tutorial on (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVo667hcJSs).

Tampa Bay Beach Boppers

6918 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, USA