Cumbia is a social dance before it is a performance, and this evening in Bella Abzug Park treats it that way — a sound system, an open lawn and a floor that fills with whoever shows up. The setting is the joke and the draw: Colombian rhythms bouncing off the glass of Hudson Yards, three blocks from Penn Station. If you have ever wanted to try a partner dance without buying a class package, this is a low-stakes way in.
What to expect
Expect an open-air dance session in a linear park of lawns, benches and plantings between 34th and 35th Streets. There is usually room to watch from the edge before joining, and beginners tend to be folded in rather than left out. Surrounding blocks have plenty of food, and the High Line's northern end is a few minutes' walk if you want to keep the evening going.
Good to know
- Bella Abzug Park runs between 33rd and 36th Streets around Hudson Boulevard, west of Tenth Avenue.
- The 7 at Hudson Yards is directly there; Penn Station and the A, C and E at 34th Street are a short walk east.
- Wear shoes you can pivot in — smooth soles beat sneakers for cumbia.
- You do not need a partner; social dance events rotate people in.
- It is an open public park, so there is no ticket or door.
- Paths are paved, flat and fully accessible.
Get Saturday planned every Thursday
One email a week — the best of the NYC weekend board. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
Where is Bella Abzug Park?
In Hudson Yards on Manhattan's far West Side, a linear park running along Hudson Boulevard between roughly 33rd and 36th Streets.
Do I need dance experience?
No — cumbia socials are built for walk-ups, and the basic step is quick to pick up on the edge of the floor.
Is it free?
Yes, it takes place in a public park with open access.
More this weekend
