The 9:20 Special is San Francisco's Premiere Thursday Night Swing Dance Party that has been a staple of the San Francisco Dance scene since 1998. Originally started by internationally renowned Lindy Hop instructors Paul & Sharon as a practice party for their students, the 9:20 quickly evolved into the most popular spot to go dancing in the Bay Area. Today the 9:20 Special regularly draws crowds of 120+ dancers a week and is known as one of the most friendly, fun, and casual dances in the Bay Area.
From January 2004 through the spring of 2009, The 9:20 Special was run by Jeff Ho, a long time 9:20 volunteer and supporter, and and Manu Smith, International Lindy Hop instructor and cofounder of Yehoodi.com.
In April 2009, the leadership of "9:20" was passed to an enthusiastic Lindy Hopper by the name of Kirk Tarou. Kirk has a staff which includes new and familiar faces: Manu advisor, teacher and DJ, Nicole Frydman is our Education Coordinator, Iris Dolowitz is our Social [Media] Butterfly, Laurie Caird is the resident Designer, Catherine Porter is the Promotions Assistant, and Alex Estrada coordinates volunteers.
Every week The 9:20 Special offers Beginner, Intermediate, and Extension classes followed by a social dance in our big, beautiful ballroom with music provided by nationally acclaimed DJs like "Mister" Jesse Miner, special guests from around the world, as well as many talented local DJs spinning your favorite music.
The 9:20 Special is held every Thursday at the Russian Center in San Francisco. Street parking is relatively easy to find. Click here for parking tips.
Check out the calendar to find out what's happening at The 9:20 Special.
