For its 25th birthday on Friday, the Cambridge Dance Party gets to stay up late: For its quarter-century anniversary, the free, all-ages outdoor party runs from 6 to 11 p.m., an hour later than in the past.
This year’s event is a dual birthday party: The theme “Revolutionary Reunion 250” honors 250 years of Cambridge community and history and looks forward to the ongoing evolution of the city.
DJs including P.A.C., Ed Word Galan, Rich Medina and Tony Touch play live throughout the night. After sunset, at 8:25 p.m. on Friday, City Hall is illuminated, turning Massachusetts Avenue into a glowing dance space.
Every year, up to 30,000 people of all ages fill the streets in front of City Hall for the event; as in the previous two dance parties, the 25th anniversary brings more room for crowds with an extension to Prospect Street.
The event is held rain or shine, with forecast temperatures mild and in the high 70s in comparison with the heat advisory issued for early in the week.
Before the dance party kicks off, the Citywide Senior Center, 806 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, hosts a Cambridge Senior Jam Session featuring A Tribe Called Funk, and a family-friendly block party is at 5 p.m. on Temple Street.
This year’s party is again organized by the City Manager’s Office, Cambridge Arts and Central Square Business Improvement District.
Cambridge City Hall is at 795 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, and accessible via the MBTA red line. Bike Valets will be available on both ends of Massachusetts Avenue to promote eco-friendly travel to and from Cambridge City Hall.
The No. 1 bus line is typically rerouted in Central Square at 5 p.m. when the street closes for the party.
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