The Avalon Ballroom

Hello, Colorado dance enthusiasts! If you're seeking a dynamic and inclusive space to immerse yourself in the world of dance, look no further than The Avalon Ballroom in Boulder. This venue might surprise you with its exterior, a large white metal structure that defies typical expectations of a grand ballroom. However, step inside, and you'll discover a vibrant hub where a wide variety of dance styles flourish, and a strong sense of community thrives. The Avalon Ballroom is far more than just a building; it's a living, breathing testament to the joy of movement and connection, making it a cornerstone for Boulder's diverse dance scene.

The Avalon Ballroom is a true gem for locals, offering an impressive array of dance programs that cater to all tastes and skill levels. From the energetic rhythms of swing and salsa to the elegant glides of waltz and foxtrot, and even traditional contra and folk dances, there’s truly something for everyone here. Many events at the Avalon include introductory lessons before the main social dancing, making it incredibly welcoming for beginners who might be nervous about stepping onto the dance floor for the first time. Experienced dancers will also appreciate the quality of the flooring and the diverse community of fellow enthusiasts.

What makes The Avalon Ballroom truly special, according to its dedicated patrons, are the people who bring it to life – the founders, stewards, teachers, and especially the dancers themselves. Their collective passion creates a genuinely positive and supportive atmosphere, ensuring that everyone feels welcome to join in the fun. While some areas might appear to be a work in progress, this unique character often adds to its charm, giving it an authentic, community-driven feel that many locals cherish.

The Avalon Ballroom is conveniently situated at 6185 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO 80303, USA. This location in Boulder makes it highly accessible for residents across the Front Range, including those in Denver, Longmont, Louisville, and surrounding areas. Arapahoe Road is a major thoroughfare, ensuring straightforward navigation to the venue.

A significant advantage for Colorado locals is the venue's ample parking. The Avalon Ballroom boasts a large, covered parking lot with substantial square footage (19090 sq. ft. to the east and 46400 sq. ft. to the south), alleviating the common urban challenge of finding a spot. Adding to its appeal and alignment with Colorado's eco-conscious values, the parking lot also features free electric car chargers and solar-powered covered parking. This commitment to sustainability is a notable highlight for environmentally aware residents. While the exterior might be an "unexpected" large white metal structure, its strategic location on a main road combined with generous and green-friendly parking facilities makes The Avalon Ballroom a highly practical and desirable choice for anyone seeking a dance experience in the Boulder area. The easy access contributes greatly to the venue's ability to host a wide range of events and draw in a diverse community of dancers from across the region.

Services Offered:

• Wide Variety of Dance Programs: The Avalon Ballroom offers a diverse range of dance styles including Ballroom, Blues, Swing (Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing), Tango, Salsa (including Rueda), Waltz, Foxtrot, Contra Dance, International Folk Dance, Nightclub Two-Step, Cha-Cha, Polka, Schottische, Chalypso, Redowa, Hambo, and Hustle.
• Dance Lessons: Many events include dance lessons before social dancing, catering to all levels from beginner to advanced.
• Social Dancing Events: Regular evenings are dedicated to social dancing across various styles, often featuring live bands or DJs.
• Live Music: The venue frequently hosts events with live bands, especially for swing and jazz nights.
• Venue Rental: The Avalon Ballroom, including its main ballroom, Sodal Hall, North Hall, Boulder Tango Studio, and Kitchen Dance/Meeting Area, is available for rent for classes, workshops, meetings, and other functions.
• Event Hosting: The venue can host diverse events such as dance parties, drive-in movie nights, art shows, and hip-hop festivals.
• Community Dance Journeys: Programs like "OneBody Dance" offer a community dance journey focused on expressive, free-form movement.

Features / Highlights:

• Spacious Venue: The Avalon Ballroom features a 5,000 sq. ft. ballroom with an occupancy of 354, along with other rentable spaces like Sodal Hall (seated: 180) and North Hall (seated: 60), ensuring ample room for dancers and events.
• Cushioned Dance Floor: The main ballroom boasts a "cushioned dance floor (easy on your knees!) lovingly built by community volunteers," making it comfortable for extended periods of dancing.
• Original Wood Flooring: The interior flooring is described as "nice" and includes original wood, which is painstakingly maintained.
• Eco-Friendly Amenities: Features free electric car chargers and solar-powered covered parking, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
• Welcoming Community: Patrons consistently highlight the friendly and helpful nature of the "humans" involved—founders, stewards, teachers, and dancers—fostering an inclusive environment.
• Versatile Lighting Options: Equipped with LED lighting and multiple lighting options to set the mood for different events.
• Full Sound System: The venue is fully equipped with a sound system, essential for quality musical experiences.
• Flexible Layouts: The interior can be adapted with tables, couches, and chairs, allowing for various event setups.
• Service Kitchen: A serving kitchen is provided at no extra charge with a Ballroom booking, with a separate area available for smaller meetings or dance studios.
• Community Focus: Recognized as Boulder County's "Best Place to Dance" every year since 2015, indicating its strong role in the local dance community.

Contact Information:

Address: 6185 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO 80303, USA

Phone: (303) 440-8303

Mobile Phone: +1 303-440-8303

For locals throughout Colorado, particularly those in the Boulder and Denver metro areas, The Avalon Ballroom stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, its prime location on Arapahoe Road in Boulder ensures easy access, complemented by "sooooo many different dancing options" and abundant, eco-friendly parking featuring free electric car chargers. This practical convenience makes it a hassle-free choice for a regular dance night or a special event.

The core suitability of The Avalon Ballroom lies in its remarkable versatility and the sheer breadth of its dance programs. Unlike many specialized venues, the Avalon offers "a wide variety of styles," from Swing and Salsa to Waltz, Contra, and various folk dances. This means that whether you're a seasoned dancer looking to expand your repertoire or a complete beginner eager to try something new, you'll find a welcoming space and dedicated instruction. Many events include introductory lessons, removing any intimidation for newcomers and ensuring everyone can participate and enjoy the social dancing.

Furthermore, the venue itself is designed with the dancer's experience in mind. The "nice" and "lovingly built cushioned dance floor" is a significant highlight, providing comfort and support for hours of movement. This commitment to quality flooring is essential for preventing fatigue and making the experience truly enjoyable. While the exterior might be unassuming, the interior provides a well-equipped space with good sound systems and flexible layouts.

Perhaps most importantly, The Avalon Ballroom fosters a genuine sense of community. The consistent praise for the "nice and helpful" people involved – from the founders to the teachers and fellow dancers – underscores a warm and inclusive atmosphere. This makes it more than just a place to dance; it's a place to connect, make friends, and be part of a vibrant, supportive collective. For Coloradoans seeking a high-quality dance experience that combines diverse styles, excellent facilities, and a strong community spirit, The Avalon Ballroom is undoubtedly a premier choice and a true asset to the local cultural landscape.

The Avalon Ballroom

6185 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO 80303, USA