Sponsored Event

    Sponsored Event

    $0.00
    $0.00
    SAVE Sold out

    Sponsored Event

    $0.00
    $0.00
    SAVE Sold out
    View full details

    ABOUT

    Nestled on the shores of Oakland's iconic Lake Merritt, the Lake Merritt Tango Marathon is a celebration of Argentine tango in one of the Bay Area's most beloved settings. Over the course of a weekend, dancers gather from near and far to share the floor, the music, and the magic that only a marathon can offer — hours of uninterrupted tango, deep connection, and the kind of dancing that stays with you long after the last cortina fades.

    Whether you're traveling from across the country or just across the bridge, this is your invitation to slow down, tune in, and dance.

    check_circle
    Cabeceo

    Invitations are extended through eye contact and a subtle nod. Please use the cabeceo to invite and accept dances, and respect a declined gaze graciously.

    check_circle
    Line of dance

    Always move counterclockwise around the floor and avoid cutting across lanes. Be mindful of the couples around you.

    check_circle
    Floorcraft

    Navigate with care. Avoid large movements, high boleos, or sharp footwork when the floor is crowded.

    check_circle
    Hygiene & dress code

    Come fresh and dress elegantly. Close contact is at the heart of tango — your partner will thank you. Breath mints, deodorant, and a change of shirt are always a good idea.

    OUR DJS

     

    Derek Tang

    Derek is one of the most requested DJs in Los Angeles. He consistently deejays at the most prestigious milongas throughout Southern California. He has also been a DJ for the San Diego Tango Festival, Orange County Tango Festival, and LA Tango Marathon.

    Aside from being a DJ, Derek is also the winner of the 2016 Southern California Tango Championship, winning in all three categories of Tango, Vals, and Milonga. He also placed third in the 2016 U.S.A. Argentine Tango Championship in the Tango Salon category.

    “The music is an essential ingredient to creating a magical evening. My responsibility as a DJ is to create the energy that will allow every dancer to express themselves to their fullest ability.”

    Ashvin Iyer

    Ashvin has been DJing since 2010 and his tandas stand out for being unpredictable and deeply evocative. He has played all over Buenos Aires in multiple DJ tours (6 tours and 45 events as of May 2024).

    These milongas include Parakultural, Porteño y Bailarin, Gente Amiga, Cachirulo, La Rosa, Yira Yira, La Del Centro, Champagne, Balmaceda, El Motivo, and others. In November 2022, Ashvin was interviewed by Buenos Aires Tango Radio station La 2x4 FM92.7 after his work was hailed as seminal.

    Aaron Quetzal Diaz

    Aaron Quetzal Diaz discovered Tango in 2015, captivated by the music and driven by an obsession with Golden Age orchestras. He debuted in Milonga Querida in Tijuana, Mexico.

    His journey took him to San Diego, where he DJs regularly at practicas and local milongas. He is now a popular DJ across Southern California and Baja California Norte and has DJed at many festivals in the Southwest.

    With a playful style, dynamic flow, and tasty cortinas, his milongas always seem to pass quickly.

    check_circle
    A Weekend Made for Dancing

    Hours of uninterrupted tango across morning and evening milongas, so you can lose yourself completely in the music and the movement.

    check_circle
    Community From Around the World

    Dance with artists and enthusiasts traveling from across the globe, all united by a shared love of Argentine tango.

    check_circle
    An Iconic Oakland Setting

    Set against the beauty of Lake Merritt, our venue brings a warmth and atmosphere that makes every tanda feel special.

    Why Dance With Us

    The Lake Merritt Tango Marathon is more than an event — it's a gathering of passionate dancers, world-class music, and unforgettable embraces in the heart of Oakland.

    Reserve Your Spot

    Disclaimer

    By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with their participation and presence at the event. Each attendee agrees to release, waive, and hold harmless the event host/organizer: Argentina Tango Cultural Exchange Inc., venue: Lake Merrit Dance Center and City of Oakland , all staff, and affiliates from any and all liability, claims, demands, damages, or causes of action arising out of or related to any injury, loss, damage, or other incident that may occur during or in connection with the event. Attendance at the event constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of these terms, including the understanding that guests are responsible for their own safety and personal property while on the premises.