West 89th Street becomes an outdoor dance floor as Ballet Hispánico's company and school dancers perform, Tempo Alegre plays live, and families take free Latin social dance lessons on the asphalt. The studios open for free children's classes while El Museo del Barrio and New York City Center set up booths outside. If your kids can't sit still, this is the Upper West Side's liveliest free afternoon of the season.
What to expect
The block between Amsterdam and Columbus is closed to traffic and lined with food trucks selling tacos, empanadas and barbecue. Performances by the company and students run through the afternoon, kids' dance classes happen inside the Ballet Hispánico studios, and outside there is face painting, a bounce house, crafts, raffles and product giveaways.
Good to know
- Take the 1 train to 86th Street or the B/C to 86th Street; the block is a short walk from either.
- Kids' dance classes are held indoors in the Ballet Hispánico studios, so wear shoes and clothes that are easy to move in.
- Partner booths include New York City Center and El Museo del Barrio, handy for planning future family outings.
- Food trucks sell Latin American dishes, so come hungry rather than packing a full lunch.
- Suits all ages, from toddlers in the bounce house to adults joining the street salsa lessons.
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Common questions
Is the Ballet Hispánico block party free?
Yes. Ballet Hispánico lists it as free and open to the public, including the performances, dance classes and activities; food from the trucks is sold separately.
Where exactly is it?
On West 89th Street between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues, outside Ballet Hispánico's home at 167 West 89th Street.
Do adults get to dance too?
Yes. Latin social dance classes on the street are open to the whole family, while the indoor studio classes are for children.
