About the class

If you are looking for a fun and welcoming way to start dancing, this class is perfect for you.

We are offering a special 4-week class series of 1.5 hours per session so that not only you learn the fundamental steps of each rhythm, but you also practice and connect with your peers in a relaxed and supportive setting! This series is designed for newcomers or anyone wanting to refresh their dancing skills in an inclusive and judgement-free space.

No experience or partner needed.

Unlike traditional classes, we use “leaders” and “followers” instead of gendered roles, making space for everyone to feel seen and empowered on the dance floor. You’ll learn to tune into your natural rhythm, build confidence in your movement, and connect joyfully with others through music and dance.

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During this 4-class series, you will:

• Build confidence: move with ease and feel good in your body.
• Dive into the basics of Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue through your bodys natural movements. No pressure, no rush, no judgement.
• Explore and connect with your dance moves with expert and personalized guidance.
• Join a welcoming community, have fun, and make new friends on the dance floor!

Class details and registration:

• Salsa, Bachata & Merengue Class – Beginner Level 1: Fundamentals + Social Dancing
• Dates: Mondays, September 7, 14, 21, and 28.
• Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm (1 hour of instruction followed by 30 minutes of social dancing and guided practice. This is an opportunity to integrate what you’ve learned, train your muscle memory, connect with your peers, and receive additional feedback!)
• Location: La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA (near Ashby BART)
• Enrollment Cost: $110 for the 4-class series (+ Eventbrite fees). No drop-ins or single-class tickets available.
• Bonus: Registration includes one free entry to ¡BAILA!, La Peña’s monthly dance party featuring live salsa bands and DJs. The perfect place to practice what you’ve learned in a community-centered environment.
• All are welcome. No partner required.

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If you’ve already taken a handful of dance classes, completed a round of beginner level 1 series, or have danced socially and want to keep growing, we recommend taking our Beginner Level 2 Series instead.

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Questions or accessibility needs? Email us at classes@lapena.org
We’re committed to making our classes welcoming and accessible. If you have questions about accommodations, registration support, or anything else, reach out to us!

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Our Community Agreements

At La Peña, we build dance spaces rooted in care, consent, and collective responsibility. By participating, you agree to:

• Be present. Avoid distractions, interruptions, and/or multitasking.
• Engage with openness, honor others’ experiences, and treat everyone with dignity.
• Practice care and consent. Look out for one another, ask before initiating partner work, and honor all gender identities, expressions, and pronouns.
• Practice thoughtful communication and mutual understanding, respond with intention, and contribute to a supportive, collaborative environment.
• Care for the space. Keep our shared space clean and welcoming, upholding requests from La Peña staff, instructors, and organizers.

These shared commitments help us build trust, move with accountability, and create the inclusive cultural community we all deserve. 

🏳️‍🌈 La Peña Cultural Center is a queer-affirming, community-based cultural space dedicated to collective joy, resistance, and creative expression. We are committed to creating accessible, inclusive environments for all 🏳️‍⚧️