There was plenty of food and a definite community feel to Santa Clara’s annual Street Dance on Aug. 2. Local residents poured onto Franklin Street between Monroe and Madison streets to celebrate the waning days of summer.
Last year, the event was held on Jackson Street, but the city felt that this new location on Franklin Street was a better choice for this year’s event.
“Due to the high attendance of previous Street Dance events, it was recommended that a new location be considered for this popular event,” said Janine De la Vega, Santa Clara’s public information officer. “Franklin Street was identified as a potential solution, as the street is wider and the event could expand to an additional block if needed. Over the year, staff evaluated the new location with support from the City’s Traffic Engineering and Streets Divisions, and the Police Department. This year’s participants enjoyed the new Street Dance location and appreciated having more space to dance and visit with friends and neighbors.”
Fans boogied down to the sounds of Neon Velvet, a frequent performer at events all over the South Bay.
Meanwhile, Sister Cities provided the festive libations, serving up beer and wine to the crowd. It all benefited the Santa Clara Sister Cities Association, which fosters relationships with Santa Clara’s sister cities: Coimbra, Portugal; Izumo, Japan and Limerick, Ireland.
The food was also plentiful. Cousins Maine Lobster scooped out Lobster Mac & Cheese while Kona Ice kept the crowds cool with its crushed ice.
Local barbecue joint Lillie Mae’s cruised into the event and served up southern specialties like catfish, fried okra and peach cobbler.
For Chef Rhonda Manning, events like the Santa Clara Street Dance help her maintain her strong connection with the Santa Clara community.
“Participating in local events such as the Santa Clara Street Dance is essential for us because it allows us to connect directly with our community and support the local culture,” said Manning. “It’s an opportunity to give back and celebrate the spirit and vibrancy of Santa Clara, which has always been a second home to us for more than 25 years. It’s more than just a business opportunity; it’s about being part of a shared experience that enriches our lives and the lives of those around us.”
The Santa Clara Street Dance is a local tradition that dates back several decades. While the COVID shutdown halted the city’s annual streak of hosting the event, it did not stop the Street Dance altogether.
It returned a few years ago and is still going strong.