If you’ve spent a summer evening at River Landing on a Monday or Wednesday, you’ve likely heard the music before you’ve seen the crowd. What starts with the beat of salsa quickly turns into a dance floor filled with beginners, experienced dancers and curious spectators, all brought together by a long running Saskatoon tradition. Now in its 17th season, Salsa by the River has transformed the banks of the South Saskatchewan River into a free, outdoor gathering place where everyone is welcome. “It started when someone told me the electricity was on down here. So, I brought a speaker down. We had a few people, and then we had a few more,” founder Gil Campbell told CTV News. That simple idea has grown into a thriving non-profit community event. Everyone pitches in with set up and takedown. Local DJs volunteer their time and equipment, while experienced dancers help newcomers learn the basics. “Most experienced dancers here are willing to spend a song or two helping a beginner get the basic steps,” organizer Keith Hitchings said. Organizers say the success of Salsa by the River isn’t measured by attendance alone. It’s about the connections people make. For Rana Mustafa, those connections were life changing. After fleeing the war in Syria and beginning a new life in Saskatoon, Mustafa said she struggled with loneliness. Finding Salsa by the River gave her a place where she felt welcomed. “I had so much trauma because of the war. Every time I come here, I tell Keith and the others it’s like therapy for me, and I love it,” she said. Her story is one of many. For participants like Gareth Sharpentier, the event represents everything that makes Saskatoon’s summers special. “Good vibes, good music, great DJs who volunteer a lot of their time. It’s a family event. People bring their kids, and you can see people from all different countries here,” he said. The group has a Facebook Page to get information out, but it’s word of mouth that has helped the event continue to grow year after year. “I’ve convinced some people to come down here and try to learn. It just makes things fun and wonderful. We also have lots of people just watching as they walk by,” participant Betsy McNulty said. While dancing may be the main attraction, organizers say building community has always been the real goal. “So many people have said this is such a joyous experience for them. We’ve had people stop by from Edmonton, Calgary, Montreal and beyond, and they’re amazed by what they see here,” Hitchings added. Salsa by the River runs every Monday and Wednesday evening from May through October at River Landing - weather permitting. Organizers say whether you’re an experienced dancer or someone who’s never stepped onto a dance floor before, everyone is invited. “If you just look around, there’s nothing but happy faces,” Hitchings said.
