North Florida Dance Association

Welcome to the North Florida Dance Association (NF Dance), a dynamic and welcoming group dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of ballroom dancing right here in Jacksonville, Florida. In a state that appreciates social engagement and diverse recreational activities, finding a community that truly resonates with your interests can enhance your lifestyle significantly. NF Dance stands out as a unique organization, bringing together dancers of all ages and levels, from social enthusiasts to seasoned competitors, to enjoy the magic of dance in a friendly and supportive environment.

The North Florida Dance Association is built on a foundation of shared passion and camaraderie. Unlike a traditional dance studio with fixed classes, NF Dance operates as a vibrant community club, hosting events at various local venues, from dedicated ballroom studios to lively nightclubs. This flexible approach allows members to experience different dance settings and fosters a broad and engaging social network. Whether you've been dancing for years or are just beginning to explore the rhythm, the core mission is to celebrate dance together, creating a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable to participate and grow.

Jacksonville, with its expansive and diverse population, offers ample opportunities for community involvement and social activities. The North Florida Dance Association perfectly complements this environment by providing regular, accessible dance events. Their unique "Dance Host Program," featuring professional dancers, ensures that everyone, including single dancers or couples looking to refine their skills, has a partner and the opportunity to truly enjoy the dance floor. This commitment to inclusivity is what makes NF Dance so special to locals across Northeast Florida.

The Association's history is rooted in a desire to promote, encourage, and improve dancing within the region. Originally covering the northern portion of Florida, the organization, officially renamed the Northeast Florida Square & Round Dancers Association (NEFSARDA) in 1986, has a long-standing tradition of fostering dance. It has supported charities, published "The Grapevine" newsletter since 1953 (now a quarterly magazine), and contributed significantly to the dance community. This rich heritage underlines their dedication to the art form and their deep connection to the local Florida culture.

This article will explore the convenient location where NF Dance events typically occur, the unique services they offer, and the key features that make the North Florida Dance Association a beloved and highly recommended institution for social dancing in Jacksonville.

Location and Accessibility

The North Florida Dance Association operates from its base at 8650 Old Kings Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32217, USA. However, it's important to note that NF Dance is unique in that it hosts its events at "different venues," ranging from established ballroom dance studios to local nightclubs across Jacksonville. This flexible approach means that while the stated address serves as a central point of contact or administrative hub, members and guests will attend events at various locations within the city.

Old Kings Road South is a well-known thoroughfare in Jacksonville, making the main contact point easily accessible for those in the southern and central parts of the city. For events held at diverse locations, the accessibility will vary but typically leverages established local venues that are generally easy to reach. Jacksonville's road network, including major arteries, makes travel around the city relatively convenient for Floridians. When attending NF Dance events, members can expect clear communication on the specific venue, often with ample parking available at these chosen locations. This allows the Association to offer varied dance experiences, from elegant ballroom evenings to more casual "Night on the Town" events, all within the convenient reach of local residents across Northeast Florida.

Services Offered

• Monthly Elegant Dances: The Association hosts a monthly dance event that is described as an "elegant occasion" for members and guests to enjoy good fun, good fellowship, and a lot of dancing to a variety of music.
• "Night on the Town" Events: Special opportunities to experience the dance host program in a nightclub setting, adding a different social dimension to dancing.
• Dance Host Program: A unique service featuring professional lady and gentleman dance hosts. For a nominal fee at local events, individuals (including couples) can enjoy dancing with these professional partners, providing excellent practice and a guaranteed dance partner.
• Social Dancing Opportunities: Provides a platform for social dancers of all levels and ages to gather, practice their skills, and enjoy various dance styles in a relaxed setting.
• Collaboration with Other Dance Organizations: Teams up with other local dance organizations, such as Club Savoy and American Ballroom & Contemporary Dance Association, to offer a broader range of events and experiences.
• Community Building: Fosters a sense of fellowship and community among members who share a passion for dance.
• No Membership Dues or Application: Simply attend one of their events to "join the club," removing barriers to participation.
• "The Grapevine" Publication: The Association has a long history of publishing "The Grapevine," Florida's oldest Square and Round Dance publication, which likely contains event schedules, news, and articles relevant to the dance community.
• Charity Support: Historically, the Association has supported various charities through benefit dances and donations, demonstrating its commitment to community welfare.

Features / Highlights

• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: The group is described as "a diverse group of ballroom dancers" that "welcomes dancers of all ages and levels," fostering an environment where everyone feels comfortable and can "blend well together."
• Unique Dance Host Program: This is a standout feature, allowing both single dancers and couples to dance with professional hosts, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to dance and hone their skills.
• Variety of Venues: Events are held at "different venues from ballroom dance studios to night clubs," offering diverse atmospheres and experiences.
• Emphasis on Fellowship and Fun: The core purpose is "sharing their passion for dancing" and enjoying "good fun, good fellowship," making it a social and enjoyable experience.
• No Barriers to Entry: "No dues, no application, no sponsor necessary" to join, making it incredibly accessible for anyone wanting to participate.
• Long-Standing History and Tradition: The Association has a rich history dating back to 1957, with significant contributions to the Florida dance community, including publishing "The Grapevine" since 1953.
• Community Involvement and Philanthropy: Historically involved in charity work, supporting local causes through benefit dances, showcasing a commitment beyond just dance.
• Opportunity for Skill Development: While social, the presence of professional hosts and the focus on ballroom dance provide a great way for dancers to improve their technique in a real-world setting.

Contact Information

Address: 8650 Old Kings Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32217, USA

Phone: (904) 337-9965

Mobile Phone: +1 904-337-9965

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The North Florida Dance Association is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Jacksonville, Florida, offering a unique blend of social engagement, accessible dance opportunities, and a strong sense of community. For residents looking to embrace an active social life, learn new skills, or simply enjoy their passion for dance, NF Dance provides an inviting and invaluable resource.

One of the most compelling reasons for its suitability is its emphasis on fostering a truly inclusive and welcoming environment. The Association prides itself on being a "diverse group of ballroom dancers" that "welcomes dancers of all ages and levels." This means whether you're a seasoned dancer or taking your very first steps, you'll feel comfortable and encouraged. For locals who might be hesitant about traditional dance classes, the "no dues, no application, no sponsor necessary" approach removes barriers, making it incredibly easy to "join the club" and experience the joy of dance in a friendly setting.

Furthermore, the unique "Dance Host Program" is a significant advantage for the Jacksonville community. This feature ensures that everyone, especially single individuals, has a guaranteed partner to dance with at events. It also provides an excellent opportunity for couples to refine their skills by dancing with professionals. This proactive approach to ensuring a positive and engaging experience for all attendees sets NF Dance apart and makes it highly appealing to locals seeking active social outlets.

The variety of events, from elegant monthly dances to "Night on the Town" gatherings at various local venues, ensures that there's always something fresh and exciting for members. This diverse offering caters to different preferences and allows locals to experience social dancing in various atmospheres across Jacksonville. The long-standing history of the Association, including its publishing of "The Grapevine" and its commitment to charity work, also speaks to its deep roots and positive impact within the Florida community, demonstrating its role as a reliable and cherished local institution.

In conclusion, the North Florida Dance Association is more than just a group; it's a vibrant social community that celebrates the art of dance. Its welcoming atmosphere, unique dance host program, and diverse events make it an ideal and highly recommended choice for any local in Jacksonville, Florida, looking to connect, learn, and enjoy the rhythm of life through ballroom dancing.

North Florida Dance Association

8650 Old Kings Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32217, USA