The Strauss Festival of Elk Grove, California

The last Thursday through Sunday of July every year, hundreds of people lay their blankets, chairs and picnic baskets on a grassy knoll by the side of a lake in Elk Grove Regional Park. They arrive hours early in order to get the prime spots for viewing the stage just on the other side of the lake on Strauss Island, where The Strauss Festival of Elk Grove takes place.

The Strauss Festival began in 1987 and has attracted over 30,000 spectators since then. Each year, a choreographed storyline is performed by elaborately costumed waltz and polka dancers accompanied by a 32-piece orchestra. The event is free to the public, although there is a $10 parking fee.

The evening begins at 7:45, when the dancers promenade through the park, giving spectators a preview of what is to come. The performance then begins at 8:15 with an intermission about halfway through and ends around 10:00. During intermission, there are several stands with souvenirs and refreshments available for purchase.

This event is always packed, so some advanced planning is required to get a seat. Take a blanket to the Strauss Island area at Elk Grove Community Park any time after the conclusion of the previous night's show and you will be given a number. Before 10:00am the morning of the show, you will be allowed into the park in number order to place your blanket in your preferred spot. Your blanket will be safe until you go back for the show. You might want to bring a picnic basket and a bottle of wine to complete the experience.

Dancers and Other Ways to Get Involved

The Vienna Rhythm dancers in The Strauss Festival of Elk Grove are not professional, although they are required to have some dance experience. While some of the members come back year after year, others come and go. Auditions are held in January every year, and there are weekly rehearsals until the show begins. Vienna Rhythm also offers classes in Viennese Waltz starting in June. These classes are taught by Vienna Rhythm founders, Stan Dunn and Popi Rizzi, and are open to the public.

If you do not have dance experience but would like to be a part of the show, The Strauss Festival of Elk Grove has many volunteer opportunities, like wardrobe, make-up, set design and more.

Directions to Strauss Festival

Elk Grove is located near Sacramento. From Highway 99 or 5, take the Elk Grove Boulevard exit and go east. Turn right (south) on Elk Grove-Florin Road. You will see Elk Grove Regional Park on your right. Follow the signs to Strauss Island.

The Strauss Festival of Elk Grove is an opportunity for a fun family event or romantic evening that is well worth seeing at least once!