DJ Valentin Flores has spent years turning public spaces around Philadelphia into dance floors where strangers become neighbors, hosting free Latin dance events and building a community rooted in music, movement, and shared experience.

Those gatherings eventually grew into a beloved tradition at FDR Park. ¡Bailar en FDR! — Fairmount Park Conservancy’s free salsa class and social dance series that transforms the park into a lively, open-air dance floor on select Friday nights. Open to all ages and experience levels, this popular program invites people to learn, connect, and celebrate Latin dance culture in one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant public spaces.

A Celebration Rooted in Community
At the heart of the program is DJ Valentin Flores of Dance Philly, a longtime leader in Philadelphia’s Latin dance community who explains that the story of ¡Bailar en FDR! began years before the series arrived at FDR Park.

“My journey began in 2017 when I organized free Latin dance events in public spaces like the Rocky Steps, where I created unforgettable experiences,” Valentin explains. Some of these memorable moments included dancing in the rain and even serving as the backdrop for a marriage proposal!

When the pandemic disrupted community gatherings, dancers sought new ways to safely reconnect. After a community member suggested the boathouse at FDR Park, Valentin began hosting socially distanced dance events there. Those gatherings planted the seeds for what would eventually become ¡Bailar en FDR!.

With support from the Conservancy, the program continued to grow. Improvements such as access to electricity enhanced the events’ sound and lighting, while ongoing partnerships expanded the program’s reach and helped create a more welcoming space for the community.

A Place for Everyone on the Dance Floor
Today, ¡Bailar en FDR! has become a beloved tradition. Through music, movement, and friendly instruction, Valentin and the dance teachers transform an outdoor space into a welcoming dance party where beginners and experienced dancers share the same dance floor.

Each evening begins with a one-hour lesson from 7 to 8 PM, led by experienced instructors who welcome all levels — whether it’s your first salsa step or your hundredth spin.

From 8 to 11 PM, the plaza opens into a lively outdoor social dance, where everyone is invited to dance, practice new steps, meet new people, and enjoy the night.

Valentin’s Suggested Playlist
Music is at the heart of every night at ¡Bailar en FDR!, and Valentin Flores curates songs that keep the energy high and the dance floor moving. Some of his favorites include:

• “La Vida es un Carnaval” by Celia Cruz
• “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony
• “Mundo Alreves” by Tromboranga

These tracks reflect the spirit of the series: joyful, rhythmic, and rooted in Latin dance traditions that bring people together across generations and experience levels.

More Than a Dance Night
For many attendees, what stands out most is the sense of connection possible for anyone who is interested.

“Offering free programs is essential, particularly for individuals who cannot afford paid options, such as students, families, and those facing life challenges,” Valentin says.

Whether someone is stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or returning month after month, participants are encouraged to learn at their own pace and simply enjoy the experience.

Throughout the season, ¡Bailar en FDR! also features themed nights that keep the series fresh and festive. Past celebrations have included spring kickoff events, Pride Month editions, glow-in-the-dark parties, and Día de los Muertos gatherings.

With free admission, pay-as-you-go food from Taquería Morales, and a beautiful outdoor setting, ¡Bailar en FDR! reflects what parks do best: bring people together.

Join Us
Whether you come for the lesson, the music, or just the atmosphere, everyone is welcome. Register here to join us on the dance floor!

Photography by Albert Yee Photo