Postcard From National Dance Day

Washington, DC

Sarah Pernick (left) and Laura Goehrke (right) and are production coordinators at the Travel Channel. On July 28, 2012, they joined fellow dance enthusiasts on Washington, DC’s National Mall to participate in the celebration of National Dance Day.

I went here to:
 Dance dance dance!
 National Dance Day is a tradition for myself and Laura. We both love the TV show So You Think You Can Dance and had heard the event advertised on the show last year and decided to participate. This was our second year. Past contestants from the show post YouTube videos of various dances of different levels and styles. We learned the hip-hop routine this year and then joined hundreds of other dance fans on the mall to perform the dance in flash mob-style. The event happens in cities across the country.

The best way to travel here is: 
Metro. We were on “The Mall” (not the shopping kind) so the Smithsonian metro stop on the blue line is the easiest way to get there.


I’d recommend staying at: Hmmmm. The closest hotel to the event is probably the W Hotel, as featured on Best Sandwich in America!


When it comes to packing, be sure to bring: 
Water!!! DC is a scorcher in July.
 The best thing I ate was: Icey pops. It brought me back to summer camp. I had forgotten that they were 99% sugar with a side of ice, but they still tasted delicious in that weather. 


I wish I hadn't: Worn flip flops. I could have moved much more! 


Don't miss: 
The performances of local dance troupes. We saw some incredible performances from kids as young as 6!


Next time I will definitely: 
Step up our costumes. We cut up t-shirts to create fringe and decorated them with Sharpie. Very cool -- of course -- but maybe next year we’ll think of something crazier. Stay tuned!


My favorite part of the event was: 
Dancing with Laura and watching the video immediately afterward. Hours of laughter.


My advice would be: Learn the dance ahead of time, bring water, wear breathable clothing and have a great time moving on the mall!