Sundance Saloon

- 550 Barneveld Ave, San Francisco, CA 94124

For over two decades, the Sundance Saloon has been a cherished institution in the Bay Area, establishing itself not merely as a dance club but as a vital community hub and non-profit organization dedicated to the art of country-western dancing. Located in San Francisco, this venue is renowned throughout California and beyond for offering the best LGBTQ+ country-western dance experience in the world, creating a uniquely warm, welcoming, and unbelievably friendly environment. It is a place where cowboy boots meet glitter, and where people of all ages, orientations, and dance skill levels come together to share the joy of movement, music, and genuine connection.

The core mission of the Sundance Saloon, which operates under the umbrella of the Sundance Association for Country-Western Dancing, is education and community-building. As an all-volunteer, community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, its purpose is to educate the community in the unique American art form of country-western dance. They achieve this by hosting their twice-weekly regular event, the Sundance Saloon, as well as an intensive dance weekend, the Sundance Stompede, and numerous special events throughout the year. The atmosphere is celebrated by patrons, who frequently describe it as a beautiful community and a great place to make friends, feeling instantly included and part of something fun and positive. For many in the California LGBTQ+ community, the Saloon is an essential place of healing, renewal, and joyous self-expression.

The club operates on the principles of non-discrimination, welcoming straight allies and individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or traditional gender roles (lead/follow). This commitment to inclusivity is what makes Sundance Saloon a true reflection of California's diverse and progressive spirit. The entry fee, which is notably affordable, often includes a free beginner lesson, demonstrating the organization’s dedication to making country dancing accessible to everyone.

Sundance Saloon is conveniently situated in San Francisco, making it a reachable destination for dancers from the Peninsula, East Bay, and other parts of Northern California.

The physical address is:

550 Barneveld Ave, San Francisco, CA 94124, USA

While the location is in the Bayview/Hunter's Point area, its accessibility is consciously addressed. Crucially, the facility provides wheelchair accessible entrance options, ensuring that the physical space is as inclusive as the community it hosts. The club's operational hours are primarily focused on their special dance evenings, with events taking place every Sunday and Thursday, making it a perfect mid-week or weekend activity for California residents looking to stay active and socialize. The organization’s commitment to providing on-site services, including restrooms, ensures a comfortable and user-friendly experience for all attendees.

The Sundance Saloon, as the main project of the non-profit Sundance Association, provides a range of activities centered around country-western dance, education, and community support.

• Twice-weekly Country-Western Dance Events (Sundays and Thursdays)
• Beginning Dance Lessons (often included with admission) in a variety of styles.
• Dance Styles Taught: Two-Step, Line Dancing, Waltz, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, and Night-Club Two-Step.
• Intermediate and Advanced Dance Workshops (periodically offered as special series or part of larger events).
• Social Dancing/Open Dance Floors featuring a vibrant mix of music.
• Special Themed Dance Nights (e.g., Glow Night, Underwear Night, Anniversary Parties).
• Major Annual Dance Events: The Sundance Stompede, a four-day country-western dance convention.
• Community Outreach: Hosting dance events at major San Francisco festivals like SF Pride and the Castro Street Fair.
• Non-Profit Fundraising: Assistance with fundraising events for other worthy non-profit organizations in the San Francisco area, having raised over $520,000 for various causes over its history.
• Membership Programs: Tiered membership levels with tax-deductible contributions and various perks like free passes and discounts.

Sundance Saloon is defined by its strong community spirit and its unique role in California's nightlife. Here are the main highlights that draw a diverse crowd:

• Inclusive Community Focus: Predominantly serving the LGBTQ+ community, but fully welcoming to straight people and individuals of all gender identities. This inclusive ethos is consistently praised by first-time visitors and regulars alike.
• High-Quality Dance Instruction: Professional, well-taught beginner lessons in a variety of classic country-western dance forms, ensuring even those with no experience can participate and have fun immediately. The lessons are held in a beginner-friendly space before integrating the dances into the main hall.
• Affordability: A low entrance fee, often under $10, which includes a dance lesson, making it a very accessible and economical social and recreational option in a high-cost area like the Bay Area.
• Non-Profit Status: Operating as an all-volunteer, non-profit organization means every dollar supports the community mission, dance education, and philanthropic giving to other causes.
• Variety of Dance Forms: Unlike many clubs that focus on a single style, Sundance Saloon features a comprehensive program including couple dances (Two-Step, Waltz, Swing) and group dances (Line Dancing).
• Community Events: Hosting large, signature events like the annual Sundance Stompede and participating in major city festivals, fostering a sense of belonging on a regional scale.
• Amenities and Accessibility: On-site services include restrooms and a checked coat service, and notably, the facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, prioritizing comfort and convenience for all patrons.

To connect with the Sundance Saloon team or inquire about their events, lessons, or non-profit activities, California residents can use the following details:

Address: 550 Barneveld Ave, San Francisco, CA 94124, USA

Phone: (415) 820-1403 (also available via mobile at +1 415-820-1403)

They are an all-volunteer organization, and checking their official website for the most current schedule and event details is highly recommended.

For California residents seeking a unique and enriching recreational activity, Sundance Saloon offers an unparalleled combination of social connection, physical activity, and community support. It’s worth choosing for its genuinely welcoming culture. Customer testimonials consistently highlight the incredibly friendly, open, and kind atmosphere—a rare find in any large city's nightlife scene. The commitment to teaching, evidenced by the high-quality beginner lessons in Two-Step and Line Dancing, means you can show up alone, without a partner, and leave feeling confident and connected. As one customer noted, they literally "stayed until closing" because they were having the time of their life.

Furthermore, choosing Sundance Saloon means supporting a vital non-profit organization. Every admission fee contributes to the promotion of country-western dance education and, more broadly, supports various worthy non-profit organizations throughout San Francisco. This philanthropic element elevates the experience beyond simple entertainment. It’s a place where you can get a great workout, learn a new skill, find a beautiful community, and contribute to the greater good—all for a minimal entry fee.

The unique fusion of traditional country-western dancing with the progressive, inclusive values of the California LGBTQ+ community is the Saloon's strongest selling point. Whether you are seeking a fun, safe, and judgment-free space to explore a new hobby or a long-time dancer looking for advanced workshops and large-scale dance parties like the Stompede, Sundance Saloon is the premier destination. It provides a joyful, energetic, and heartwarming experience that truly makes its patrons feel less alone and part of something beautiful in the heart of the Bay Area.

Sundance Saloon

550 Barneveld Ave, San Francisco, CA 94124, USA