Roller Disco: A Timeless 70s Trend

The Rise of Roller Disco in the 1970s

Roller disco became immensely popular in the mid-70s due to the merging of two cultural obsessions: roller skating and disco music. It symbolized the free-spirited, energetic nature of the era. Roller discos were frequently held in roller rinks with flashing lights, upbeat disco music, and enthusiastic skaters performing dance routines while gliding around the rink.

When Was Roller Disco Popular?

Roller disco reached its peak popularity during the mid-1970s, driven by the rise of disco music and films like Saturday Night Fever (1977). Roller rinks turned into disco-dancing arenas, complete with spinning disco balls, flashing lights, and skaters dressed in colorful 70s outfits. The trend extended into the early 1980s before fading out, although it remains a nostalgic favorite today, with occasional revivals in pop culture and themed parties.

What Happened to Roller Disco?

Roller disco, a fusion of roller skating and disco music, gained popularity in the 1970s. It became a cultural phenomenon in places like the USA and Europe. However, as the 80s brought new musical styles like punk and electronic, roller disco gradually lost its mainstream appeal. But it never truly disappeared. Many cities, such as Portland and NYC, host secret or themed roller disco nights, reviving the trend for those who long for the retro experience.

Roller Disco Outfits: From Vintage to Modern Revivals

Vintage 70s roller disco outfits were all about bright colors, bold patterns, and comfortable yet stylish attire. Today, you can recreate this look for themed parties or casual roller nights:

Jumpsuits and bell-bottoms paired with roller skates for a sleek, retro vibe
Platform shoes (if you’re not skating) or brightly colored sneakers for non-skating events
Accessories like oversized sunglasses, headbands, and disco ball earrings to add that 70s flair.

What to Wear to a Roller Disco

To channel an authentic 70s roller disco vibe, opt for clothing that screams fun, color, and movement. Classic looks include:

Bell-bottom pants or flared jeans
Sequined tops or tight-fitting jumpsuits
Neon tights or leggings
Accessories like wristbands, oversized sunglasses, and colorful headbands
Comfortable yet stylish roller skates in pastel or neon shades. For women, metallic or sequined dresses with bold prints are a go-to, while men might prefer flared pants with patterned button-up shirts.

How to Disco Spin on Roller Skates

Learning to spin on roller skates adds a dynamic flair to your skating experience. To master the disco spin:

Find Your Balance: Start by standing on one foot and keeping your body centered.
Twist Your Body: Use your arms to twist your torso in the direction you want to spin.
Practice Speed Control: Gradually spin faster by increasing the force of your twist, but control your body to avoid getting dizzy.
Keep Your Skates Close: Ensure that your feet are close together while spinning for smoother turns.

Roller Disco in Pop Culture

Roller disco was featured in popular TV shows and movies, bringing its charm into mainstream media. In That 70s Show, Eric Forman famously roller discos in Season 3, Episode 3, showcasing the humor and fun of the 70s craze. Similarly, in the TV show CHiPs, two roller disco-themed episodes captured the trend. Celebrities like Cher and Patrick Swayze also popularized roller disco, adding to its allure.

Secret Roller Disco Portland and NYC

In cities like Portland and NYC, roller disco has made a comeback with underground or “secret” roller disco events. These events often feature retro music, neon lights, and themed outfits, bringing back the golden age of the roller rink. Locations like Dreamland Roller Disco in NYC host regular themed roller skating nights with live DJs and costumes to fully immerse skaters in the retro experience.

What is a Roller Disco?

A roller disco is essentially a roller skating party where disco music from the 70s sets the mood, and participants skate around a rink, dancing to the beat of the music. It combines the physical activity of skating with the dance-heavy culture of disco. Roller discos often have a nostalgic or themed appeal, where participants dress in 70s-inspired outfits and enjoy a night of retro fun.

Iconic Roller Disco Movies

Movies like Roller Boogie (1979) and the Playboy Roller Disco and Pajama Party (1979) perfectly encapsulated the height of roller disco’s popularity. These films featured vibrant dance scenes, showing off the athleticism, fun, and style of roller disco culture. They also highlighted how roller skating became a way to express individuality and creativity on the rink.

Disco Roller Skating Songs

No roller disco night is complete without the perfect playlist. Classic roller disco songs include:

“Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
“Le Freak” by Chic These tracks are essential to recreating the nostalgic atmosphere of 70s roller discos, with their energetic beats that kept skaters grooving on the rink.

Roller Disco Fashion: Then and Now

The 70s roller disco fashion was distinct and bold. It included:

Sequined tops and glittery jumpsuits
Flared pants that allowed easy movement on skates
Disco shirts with oversized collars for men
Roller skates with colorful wheels and designs Today, roller disco fashion has been revived for themed events, with participants blending vintage styles with modern twists to recreate the iconic looks of the 70s.

Roller Disco Parties: Where to Find Them

Cities like Los Angeles, London, and NYC continue to host roller disco events. You can attend themed parties like the Dreamland Roller Disco or Flippers Roller Disco in LA, where live DJs spin classic disco tracks and skaters are encouraged to dress in 70s-inspired outfits. Check out roller discos near you for a night of retro fun.

Roller Disco and the July 4th Rooftop Firework Viewing Party

In some cities, roller disco events coincide with major holidays. For example, the July 4th Rooftop Firework Viewing Party & Roller Disco in Miami offers a unique blend of roller skating, music, and fireworks for an unforgettable summer celebration.

The final spin

Whether you’re looking to relive the glory days of the 70s or just want a fun, nostalgic night out, roller disco offers a vibrant and active way to celebrate the disco era. From what to wear to mastering your disco spin on roller skates, it’s a trend that continues to roll through the decades. So lace up those skates, hit the rink, and glide through the night under the shimmering lights of the roller disco!