Downtown Beloit Association to host 30th Street Dance

BELOIT — There will be dancing in the streets for the 30th year in Beloit as the Downtown Beloit Association hosts its largest fundraiser of the year on Friday, Aug. 2.

The 30th Annual Downtown Beloit Association Street Dance will be held in the 300 block of State Street, featuring music, food and many opportunities to reconnect with friends.

Shauna El-Amin, executive director of the Downtown Beloit Association, said the annual event draws between 1,500 and 2,500 people each year.

“It’s a high energy crowd,” she said.

Many times, local people schedule their high school reunions to coincide with the street dance, El-Amin said. It is a perfect setting to get reacquainted with old friends and family.

Also, downtown businesses enjoy the crowds the dance brings to the downtown area.

“A lot of businesses stay open late,” she said. “It’s a great way to enjoy the night life.”

Music for the event will be provided by two bands. The Proof, a high energy band that is popular in the area, will kick things off at 5:30 p.m. Dirty Fishnet Stockings will take the stage at 8 p.m., providing classic rock and roll and rockabilly for people who want to move their feet on the red brick street downtown.

There are four food trucks that have been confirmed for the event, offering a variety of tasty dishes for downtown visitors. There also will be beer for sale, served with a smile by Downtown Beloit Association volunteers.

Also, the Clinton Cougars will have a dunk tank at the street dance, which the youngsters will be presenting as a fundraiser.

The admittance fee for the street dance is $10, but those age 14 and younger will be admitted free.

The Friday fun will begin earlier in the day with the Sidewalk Sale. Downtown merchants will bring their merchandise out on the sidewalks for sale from 8 a.m. — 2 p.m.

Then, everyone is invited to First National Bank Plaza from 11:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m. at the corner of State Street and Grand Avenue for lunch and music at Fridays in the Park. Music will be provided by Fred and Ginger and the Eclipse Event Center will provide lunch at a low cost.

Then, El-Amin and the DBA volunteers will be ready to greet everyone to the street dance.

“And I will invite them to come again for our Oktoberfest dance,” she added.