The Case for Early Closure of Dance Clubs: An Argument for Reasonable Hours

Great question. For whatever reason, over time, dance clubs have opened later and later, making it increasingly difficult for people to enjoy dancing at a reasonable hour. While this may not be a significant issue for younger individuals, it poses a considerable obstacle for those over the age of 50. Hitting the sack at 3 AM is no big deal when you are 23, but for most folks in their fifties, dancing at 10 PM when it's their bedtime is simply not feasible.

This delay in opening hours might have originated during the Prohibition era for various reasons. However, during the 1920s to the 1940s, there were dance clubs open during the day in the form of "dime-a-dance" places. Kids in the 1950s also had no qualms about dancing at their local soda shops with a jukebox playing their favorite tunes, all during daylight hours. Sadly, most children these days do not learn to partner dance, and it seems that they require a LOT of alcohol to hit the floor. Social dance used to be taught in elementary and junior high schools and was available through social dance schools, where anyone who could afford lessons could learn to dance.

It is depressing and inconvenient that one must keep "vampire hours" to get their groove on. Given the constraints of a night schedule, there is often less planning and socializing time during the day. Yet, the fun does not start until the alcohol has had time to kick in. So, while it is natural for some to enjoy a late-night social life, many are looking for more reasonable and accessible options.

Alternative Dance Venues

Fortunately, some alternative venues offer earlier hours than traditional nightclubs. For instance, many park districts in my area have Wednesday and Saturday night dances from 7 PM till midnight. These events cost only $10 to attend and are always packed with a mixed age group, where everyone is a decent dancer. While these events may not be for everyone, they are a great option for those who want to dance without the hassle of late-night venues.

Why People Want Nightlife

There is also a desire among people to perform and feel like stars. A lot of people work during the day, and they want to unwind and party all night. Once you hit legal age, there is a certain allure to coming in late to a club. This is why many people romanticize the concept of the "nightlife." For those who do not want to party all night, they are often labeled as "party poopers" who stay home. However, it is important to recognize that not everyone enjoys the same nightlife experience, and there should be options for reasonable hours.

The need for early closure of dance clubs is a valid argument for more accessible and reasonable hours. Not only do earlier hours make it feasible for people to enjoy dancing, but they also align with natural circadian rhythms and promote a healthier work-life balance. While some may argue that nightclubs provide a unique and exciting experience, there is no reason it cannot coexist with earlier-hour venues to cater to a broader audience.

Call to action: If you know of such early closure venues, feel free to share them in the comments below. Together, we can create a more inclusive and accommodating dance scene.