JILLIAN’S: SHAG NIGHT
Thursdays, 6-11 p.m.
800 Gervais St.
Atmosphere: You can usually expect a mixed crowd of college students and older adults. Jillian’s hosts a live band and DJ and opens up its back room for more space to dance. It’s a fun and upbeat atmosphere.
Involvement: The big dance floor allows for many couples to dance at one time, and tons of dedicated shaggers show up.
Couples-only or singles-friendly: Both. A lot of people come in large groups to dance, but it is also a great place to check out with that special someone.
What to wear: Shag Night is casual; usually, most just wear jeans and comfy shoes. If you really want to get into the Country Western theme, try wearing a cowboy hat and boots.
Beginner-friendly: Yes. Don’t avoid Shag Night just because you don’t know how to do the state dance. Free shag classes are given throughout the evening.
Ages: 18 to enter and 21 to drink.
Cover: $3 for under 21 after 8 p.m.
SALSA CABANA: SALSA NIGHT
Fridays, 10:30 p.m.–2 a.m.
2005 N. Beltline Blvd. #11
Atmosphere: With musica latina blaring, the scene looks more like “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” than Columbia, S.C. The crowd varies from college students to older adults. Salsa Night features DJ Gabriel, and if you want a table, be sure to bring some extra cash, as the club tends to cater to a more upscale crowd.
Involvement: Everyone in Salsa Cabana is constantly dancing. The club gets relatively crowded later in the evening, so it is recommended to go early.
Couples-only or singles-friendly: Both. A lot of people usually go in groups, but this spot would make a great date!
What to wear: Dress to impress because Salsa Night is an adult atmosphere with a young feel. Women typically wear flowy dresses or skirts. No rubber-soled shoes; heels with straps are recommended. Men typically wear jeans or pants with a button-down, lightweight shirt and nice shoes.
Beginner-friendly: Yes, everyone is willing to teach. Professional lessons are also offered for a reasonable price on Thursdays.
Ages: 18 to enter and 21 to drink.
Cover: A cash-only fee of $10 for ages 18-20 and $5 for 21+
Saturdays, 7 p.m.-2 a.m.
2107 Greene St.
Atmosphere: Flashing strobes and colorful lights surround a diverse and eclectic crowd at this Five Points bar. Group Therapy is typically a locals’ bar that caters to college kids.
Involvement: The Back Deck gets crowded with techno dancers and observers. The crowd generally sets in around 11 or 11:30.
Couples-only or single-friendly: Mostly a “group” atmosphere.
What to wear: Traditional bar or going-out attire is best, but if you’re feeling creative, wear some crazy, neon colors that will shine under the black light.
Beginner-friendly: Yes, Techno Night is friendly to all skill levels.
Ages: 21+ only
Cover: None
