Humboldt County’s own Julie Hayes has brought home two titles from the West Coast Latin Dance Championships in Oakland, earning first place in the Salsa ProAm75 division and second place in the All ProAm division. Her impressive scores have qualified her to compete in the EuroSon World Championship Finals in Cancún, Mexico, this December, where she will represent both Humboldt County and the Latin dance community on the international stage. Hayes’ recent wins mark a proud moment for Humboldt’s growing Latin dance scene.
With 15 years of salsa dancing experience, Julie is not just a performer but also a passionate educator and community leader. Every Friday evening she welcomes students of all skill levels to her Salsa class at the Redwood Raks Dance Studio in Arcata. Julie also leads the Bailando performance team, showcasing their talent across Northern California and the West Coast. Additionally, she founded and organizes the Humboldt Latin Dance Festival each September, attracting dancers, musicians, and enthusiasts from near and far.
“Julie Hayes has worked very hard and tirelessly to build a thriving Latin dance community here in Humboldt,” affirms Craig Kurumada, Redwood Raks board member. “Her success is a great achievement and is an inspiration to everyone who follows her passion, not just for Latin dance, but for all forms of art.”
Training with her professional coach and partner, John Narvaez of SalsaMania in Oakland, Hayes integrates high-level technique with an authentic approach to salsa that honors its Afro-Caribbean, Puerto Rican, and Cuban roots. “I’m not a ballroom dancer,” Hayes emphasizes. “I’m a salsa and bachata dancer who celebrates the cultural heartbeat that shaped this art form. I’m proud to bring Humboldt’s energy, spirit, and community to every stage I step onto.”
As Julie gears up for the World Championships in Cancún, she continues to embody the principles of passion, authenticity, and a rhythmic spirit that bridges cultures and fosters connections through dance. Follow Julie @SalsaAtSix and @HumboldtHarmony.
This article appears in My Humboldt Life November 2025.