Latin beats will pulsate from Town Centre Park on June 25 for the return of an outdoor Salsa party for the public.
The free annual fiesta is organized by Alberto Gonzalez and Teresa Szefler of Salsa Dance Zone, the same company that offers dance classes at the Evergreen Cultural Centre as well as events at the Port Coquitlam and Port Moody legions and Site B Community Brewing.
Last year, about 1,000 participants showed up at the amphitheatre to try the Salsa, bachata, merengue, cha cha cha and cumbia steps.
“It was a lot of fun,” Gonzalez told the Tri-City News.
“The weather was good and people got out.”
For this year’s event, which coincides with the company’s 15th anniversary, the program will be the same: There will be a one-hour beginners’ class from 6 to 7 p.m. to teach the basic moves while, from 7 to 9 p.m., the floor is open to groove to DJ music.
All ages and dance levels are welcome, and no partner is needed.
“It’s a chance for people to enjoy themselves and forget about their worries. It’s good to get out of your comfort zone,” Szefler said.
“And, because it’s free, it gives us a chance to give back to the community.”
Gonzalez, who hails from Mexico City, said the 2022 multicultural gathering drew many attendees from Latin and South America who now call Canada home.
“We know there are a lot of them living in the Tri-Cities and around the Lower Mainland. It’s good to connect and celebrate.”
Szefler is confident the pair will have a strong turnout. On Salsa Dance Zone’s Facebook Event page, more than 1,000 people have indicated they’re interested in attending.
The annual outdoor Salsa party runs at Town Centre Park Community Plaza (1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam) on Sunday, June 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. There is no cost to participate and registration is not required. To get to the park, hop on the Millennium Line to the Lafarge Lake–Douglas station. Visit salsadancezone.com.
