For the past 13 years one of the most popular July Fourth celebrations is held, not on July 4th, but on the 3rd. The Independence Day Street Dance is held downtown and is always scheduled for the evening before the big events of the Fourth. A live band, food and drink set the stage for an evening of people-watching and an all around feeling of patriotism with Morgan Hill's community and family spirit.

Street Dance Committee Chairman, Dennis Dal Poggetto has organized this fantastic event for years. It is the responsibility of Dennis and his assistants, Manny Padilla, Steven Stratton, and Marlon Spencer, to coordinate every detail including street closures, security, food and beverages, licenses and permits, tents and porta potties, set-up, teardown and Dennis' personal favorite, clean-up. None of this could happen without John Tawny who coordinates all of the clean-up efforts for all of the events.

This event goes back to 1992 when Rich Devlin of the local band, The Dadz, volunteered to have his band play as a fundraiser for the Independence Day, Inc. (IDI) 4th of July Event organizers. The first street dance was held in the parking lot of the former Jack's Steak House in downtown Morgan Hil. Since then our town has grown and so has this event. The Independence Day Street Dance has evolved into Morgan Hill's Most popular "night on the Town" and attracts a crowd of thousands.
The evening starts off with "The Star Spangled Banner" at 7pm. The Usual Suspects will be back this year for the fifth time performing their high-energy classic rock. Families gather for an outdoor dinner, sit around enjoying the music, dance, and socialize with old friends, new friends and everyone else in town.

Tickets for drink will be sold beginning at 6:30. All the other entertainment, of course, is free to the public. Back again this year by popular demand is San Martin Meats - Trip Tip sandwiches, Jersey's Tavern with their famous cheese steak sandwich, Thai Stick serving your favorite Chicken & Beef Kabobs, Marie Callender's for home made pies, and Friendly Fred's Hot Dogs. So stop off get a Hot Dog, Sandwich, or beer & soda.

Whether you are new to Morgan Hill or have lived here awhile, the Street Dance is the perfect place to experience the spirit of our town.

Thanks for all your community support,
Dennis Dal Poggetto
Street Dance Chairman