Spark the Salsa

In the promotional video for the Miami Salsa Congress, a man dips a woman and spins her around while trumpets call out to the dancers. The woman hooks onto her partner and shakes her body ferociously to the salsa rhythms. The congress is a five-day weekend event that celebrates salsa to the max. From August 1 through 5, international DJs, performers, and instructors will jam with salsa enthusiasts from around the world. A salsa lover’s party continues until 4:00 a.m., with live bands and dance showcases. There are also workshops for experts and beginners. Basically it’s salsa heaven.

“I think what drives people crazy about salsa is, first off, the music is really good, just spicy and flavorful. Then all of a sudden you see all the turns. People get amused and say, ‘I wanna do that,’” says Salsa Lovers founder Rene Gueits. Tonight at 10:00 salsa dancers can let loose to these rhythms when they visit Yuca Lounge for the Miami Salsa Congress kick-off party. Wear your dancing shoes tonight at 10:00. Admission for tonight’s event is $15, and prices for individual workshops and events range from $45 for Salsa Bootcamp for beginners, to $255 for a three-day full-event pass. Visit www.miamisalsacongress.com.
Aug. 1-5, 10 p.m.