— Expanded event embraces the vibrant traditions of salsa, bachata, merengue and more while welcoming an anticipated record crowd this summer –
Hackensack, NJ – June 25, 2026 – After dancing its way into the hearts of hundreds of residents and visitors during its inaugural year, Downtown Hackensack’s beloved Salsa Social is returning this summer with a new name, a bigger footprint, and an even more vibrant celebration of Latin culture.
Now reimagined as Latin Social, Downtown Hackensack Main Street Business Alliance’s (MSBA) popular community event reflects its exciting evolution beyond salsa to celebrate the full spectrum of Latin dance and music, including salsa, bachata, merengue, and other beloved Latin rhythms. Taking place on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the event has also moved to Main Street between Atlantic Street and Mercer Street, providing significantly more space as organizers anticipate welcoming a record number of attendees following the tremendous response to last year’s debut.
Presented by the Main Street Business Alliance in collaboration with NJ Salsa, the free, family-friendly celebration will transform the heart of Downtown Hackensack into a vibrant open-air dance floor filled with Latin rhythms, live performances, food, and plenty of opportunities for everyone to join the fun.
Whether attendees are seasoned dancers or complete beginners, Latin Social invites everyone to experience the energy, culture, and joy of Latin music in a welcoming and festive atmosphere.
The excitement surrounding the event has continued to build over the past year as attendees have shared enthusiastic reviews of last summer’s celebration and eagerly anticipated its return. With an expanded location, broader musical programming, and even more opportunities to participate, Latin Social promises to be one of Downtown Hackensack’s signature events of the summer.
“One of the most rewarding things about creating events in Downtown Hackensack is seeing how quickly the community embraces them, and Latin Social is a perfect example,” said John T. Peters, Executive Director of the Main Street Business Alliance. “The response to last year’s event exceeded all expectations. People danced, laughed, connected with neighbors, and experienced Main Street in a completely new way. Moving the event to Main Street this year allows us to welcome even more people while continuing to celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes Hackensack such a special place.”
Throughout the afternoon and evening, guests can enjoy:
- Music by DJ Frank
- Latin music and dancing in the street
- Dance performances and demonstrations by NJ Salsa and Afinke Dance Studio
- Opportunities for community participation
- Food from local businesses
- A lively and welcoming atmosphere for all ages
Latin Social has become another example of MSBA’s commitment to creating dynamic public experiences that bring residents, businesses, and visitors together while showcasing Downtown Hackensack as one of Bergen County’s most exciting cultural destinations.
“Events like Latin Social are exactly what our organization strives to create,” said Eric Anderson, Chairman of the Main Street Business Alliance. “They bring people together, celebrate the incredible diversity of our community, support our local businesses, and activate public spaces in meaningful ways. Downtown Hackensack continues to evolve as a destination where culture, entertainment, and commerce come together, and Salsa Social is one of the most exciting examples of that vision in action.”
The event is free and open to the public.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, enjoy dinner at one of Downtown Hackensack’s many restaurants, and stay for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and community celebration in the heart of the city.
For more information, visit DowntownHackensack.org.
About the Main Street Business Alliance
The Main Street Business Alliance (MSBA) is a public/private partnership formed between the business community on Main Street and the city of Hackensack. The MSBA’s mission is to address the issues facing the business community on Main Street, with the goal of improving the local economy and the overall business climate. For more information, visit www.DowntownHackensack.org
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