Note: band in image might not be the one playing at this particular event.
Welcome to Camp Hollywood! Tonight check in begins at 5 PM, then join us in the ballroom for The Mint Julep Jazz Band, starting at 9 PM. What’s this, what’s this? It’s our Nightmare Before Camp Hollywood night – come as Jack, Sally, Zero, or any one of your favorite characters from the Tim Burton classic! Meet your instructors, fellow campers, and potential dance partners! Enjoy our exciting NJC Solo Team division! Band plays 9 PM – midnight, after hours DJ dancing until? – $40 night ticket
Camp Hollywood is the biggest and best annual Swing dance event in Southern California. Dancers and instructors come from around the world to attend this celebration of Swing dancing, Balboa, Blues, and more. The popularity of Camp Hollywood has not diminished over time, and a solid attendance is expected!
There are classes during the day and contests and dances at night, plus late-night dancing till the wee hours of the morning. There are three huge dance floors in the main room and an additional floor for blues in a separate room. Seeing how late you can stay up dancing is part of the Camp Hollywood experience. The latest I’ve made it to is 4AM!
You can either do the whole package including classes or just do the dances. There are also contests that include Lindy, Shag, Balboa, Team, Mix ‘n Match (formerly known as Jack and Jill), in pro and amateur categories. They are really fun to watch but they require a separate entrance fee unless you have the full package. Don’t forget the Sunday pool party with live band, a Camp Hollywood tradition. Finally, you’ll find an amazing selection of vintage wear in the vendor rooms, so be sure to stop there.
I probably wouldn’t recommend Camp Hollywood for absolute beginners (unless you are very ambitious), but it’s great for intermediate through advanced dancers. If you do the classes, you will be utterly exhausted, but your dancing will improve tremendously.
I’m looking forward to seeing everyone there! – Brian
Here’s a contest from 2017, as an example of what to expect:
Quick Facts
When
Once a year Friday through Monday on Labor Day Weekend, all day and night long
Cost
$45-$55 for the dances, full weekend passes available for the classes
Crowd
Some intermediate and many advanced dancers from around the country and world; intimidating for beginners, plenty of partners, usually more follows than leads though. All-ages.
Dress
Formal or dress according to the night's (usually wacky) theme.
Floor
Great wooden dance floor is installed over the carpet
Please Leave a Question or Comment