Editor’s Note: This article is the third in a mini-series on interactive and safe activities people can participate in during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The Downtown Akron Partnership partnered with the JustUs Line Dance Crew for an hour-long line dancing class at Lock 3 every Thursday in October from 6 to 7 p.m.

The dance class was open to the public and free for all participants, with no limit to the number of participants. Free parking was also available in the State Street Parking Garage for participants.

Those who like to watch the dancing, and others were encouraged to bring lawn chairs to relax and watch the class with social distancing requirements.

“Social distancing is strongly enforced. Masks are required upon entry to the park but can be removed while dancing,” Carmen D. Payne, co-founder of JustUs LDC, said.

Some of the COVID-19 regulations enforced included masks required when not dancing and dancers were spaced six feet apart. Participants also had to agree to the Liability Waiver and COVID-19 Liability Waiver either online or in-person for contact tracing purposes.

JustUs LDC provides an exciting and fun atmosphere during their traditional style line dance classes taught by seasoned dancers. The organization promotes awareness of healthy living and the excitement dancing can bring through their line dancing.

On top of the events held at Lock 3, JustUs LDC also hosts classes and workshops at various venues. These are for dancers with different levels of experience or those looking for an interesting workout.

“Once we are able to resume our regular classes, they are also free with the exception of our monthly workshops and our annual event in April,” Payne said.

The JustUs LDC mission statement, “Keeping Akron Healthy One Dance at a Time,” was still greatly reflected through their use of COVID-19 guidelines and engaging line dance routines safely.

To learn more about JustUs line dancing events, click here.