It’s easier to dance the night away when you know where to go.
Sides Speakeasy (Mondays at 515 Kitchen and Cocktails, 515 Cedar St., Santa Cruz. 831.425.5051) Every Monday night the 515 lounge is transformed into a dark nightclub where patrons can dance and drink their working man’s blues away like it’s 1929. Hosted by resident DJ Tom LG, the Speakeasy is a one-of-a-kind experience that honors a unique part of American history, from the Great Depression to World War II. Patrons dress in period clothes (but for those without a flapper dress or sock garters, nicer clothes are just fine) to swing, foxtrot and dance the Charleston to LG’s handiwork as he spins the tunes from the original 45 and 78 rpm vinyl records.
The Big 80s (Thursdays at Blue Lagoon, 923 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. 831.423.7117) Thursdays are the new Fridays. Starting at 10pm, the Blue Lagoon opens its doors to all of Santa Cruz’s, like, totally rad dudes and chicks that just can’t get enough. DJ Tripp whips it good all night, leaving the kids hungry (like a wolf) for more. And with $2 Pabst beer all night, even the most penniless of students can have a thriller, killer night.
Fridays at the Red (Red Restaurant and Lounge, 200 Locust St., Santa Cruz. 831.425.1913) For anyone who wants to go out but can’t decide if they want to groove to 1960s R&B, ’70s funk or Flying Lotus, there’s the Red. Here, somebody can start off with a strong tiki drink while listening to exotica in DJ Tom’s Red Light Lounge and end on shots with DJ Ryan. The dimly lit atmosphere and succulent food is perfect for a first date or just hanging out.
Techno Wednesdays (Motiv, 1209 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. 831.429.8070). Can’t get enough of the womp-womp-womp in life? Three Wednesdays out of each month, Motiv opens its doors to those in bright colors, glow sticks and fuzzy boots. Local DJs Andrew “The Pie-rat” Gruver and Lil’ Jon have been building up Motiv’s reputation for the past couple of years with acts like Mark Farina and Pussy Monster. The drinks can be pricey, but the music will keep any fan on the dance floor for hours.
Friday Nights at Cypress Lounge (Cypress Lounge, 120 Union St., Santa Cruz. 831.429.9876) Friday nights are the quintessential party nights, and the Cypress Lounge knows how to do them right. Between DJ ToneSol spinning today’s hottest club hits during his Dirty Disko and resident DJ Downsquarez killing the floor with underground electro and dubstep, the Cypress Lounge fills up quickly.
