Coney Island's boardwalk has been New York's default open-air dance floor for a century, and permitted amplified events like this one are why summer afternoons out there still sound like a party rather than a beach. Dalian Dance takes the western stretch for an afternoon with the sound system up, the Atlantic on one side and the amusement district on the other. If you want to dance outdoors with sand underfoot and no cover charge, get on the D train.
What to expect
Expect a boardwalk set-up with amplified music, an informal crowd that grows as the afternoon goes on, and the full Coney Island surround: the beach a step down from the planks, Luna Park's rides and the Wonder Wheel to the east, food counters all along the strip. It is a public boardwalk, so passers-by become the crowd. Nothing is fenced or ticketed.
Good to know
- Coney Island is the end of the D/F/N/Q at Stillwell Avenue; the western boardwalk stretch is a walk west from there.
- Free and open to the public — it is a permitted public event, so no ticket or RSVP is involved.
- The boardwalk is flat and fully accessible, and beach mats reach the sand at several points.
- Bring sunscreen and water — the boardwalk has almost no shade in the afternoon.
- Public restrooms and food counters run the length of the strip.
- Good for a group; the crowd is open and there is no seating to reserve.
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Common questions
Where on the boardwalk is it?
On the western stretch of the Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk in Brooklyn.
Is it free?
Yes — it is a permitted public event on the boardwalk with no ticket.
How do I get there?
The D, F, N or Q to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue, then walk to the boardwalk.
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