Back in the day: Marathon Dancing at Casino Park Pavilion

While the Great Depression gave us a lot to worry about, it also created a new craze. But marathon dancing came to vogue in the United States during the Roaring Twenties.

The Jazz age became a media sensation and minor industry, earning a few bucks during the dark days of the Great Depression.

Though most contestants went home with only pennies thrown by spectators.

Marathon Dance in RGV

It was in June of 1930 that near the Arroyo Colorado Bridge that the popularity of such dancing contest was at its peak. Some dancers were required to take a particular step, such as the Charleston, for the duration. Others just remain upright and their feet always moving and knees never touching the floor. Dancers were allowed a short rest or sleep break every 45 minutes of dancing.

It was a Thursday night that the local stage at the Arroyo hosted a mega endurance dance contest. Many Valley swingers took the floor right at 8 p.m. for a change to win $1,000 in prizes. It was a day-and-night affair.

Who could participate

The contest was open to dancing couples of good reputations and to the “White Race.” To enter the contest, you must apply at Dance Pavilion from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Casino Park Dance Pavilion located on the San Benito -Harlingen Highway was open for public dancing and entertainment daily. Admission was 50 cents from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. 25 cents.

You could also enjoy the entertainment on the radio. Local stations were on hand to broadcast live each night from 10 to 10:30 p.m.

Valley contestants, if not on the winning stage, would take advantage of getting a free meal — as some venues would serve throughout the night. A free meal during the Depression was always welcomed.

One last note

According to History Link Essay, “In truth, the marathons were usually somewhat rigged, or at least stacked, toward certain couples.

Endurance was required, and the demands of the contest grew increasingly brutally as time went on. The audience failed to understand the degree to which the floor judge and the emcee, both employed by the marathon promoter, worked together to shape events and spin the flim-flam.”