“Inside Silent Disco NW: A Seattle Times–Style Feature”

Dance in the park (silently) 

For Seattleites like Eric Ruggi, who wanted to find more accessible activities for his family, the city’s many parks are a canvas where people can be creative and find new ways to move and play together. 

One such concept: the outdoors silent disco. 

You might have seen people dancing and playing with bubbles at Gas Works Park this summer — without any music. Ruggi, who operates Silent Disco NW, wrapped up his first summer of events, at which people used wireless headphones to switch between different music channels at the park. Working with Seattle Parks and Recreation to host silent discos at Gas Works made sense for a number of reasons, Ruggi said. 

Parkgoers play with bubbles and dance during a summer silent disco party at Gas Works Park hosted by Silent Disco NW. Though Silent Disco NW has concluded its summer programming, outdoors silent discos have... (Courtesy of Silent Disco NW)

“Being able to allow people to explore the park while wearing headphones,” he said, “playing in the dance circle and to just get them to be outside” can be just as fulfilling as a camping trip without needing to leave the city. 

Dancing and movement provide both physical and mental health benefits, from decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease to minimizing depression and anxiety. Ruggi added that it helps people connect with their inner child. 

“You see adults become kids again,” he said. “To see someone be like, I’ve never done this’ — you see people just kind of let their guards down.”

While Silent Disco NW has wrapped up its summer programming, similar events are popping up around the city.

“Are Silent Discos Perfect For Team Building?”

If you're looking for a fresh take on corporate team-building, it’s time to ditch the bowling alley and karaoke bar. Enter: the silent disco — a surprisingly powerful way to bring your team together in a low-pressure, high-fun environment.

We've helped companies turn ordinary team outings into unforgettable moments. Here's why silent discos are more than just a party — they’re a team-building experience your coworkers will actually want to attend.

What’s a Silent Disco?

A silent disco is a dance party where everyone wears wireless headphones instead of listening through speakers. Each participant can switch between three different music channels — curated playlists or live DJs. It’s high-energy fun, but without the loud volume. The result? Total immersion, unexpected laughs, and zero noise complaints.

Why It Works for Teams

Seattle is known for its mix of creative professionals, tech startups, remote-first teams, and global headquarters. Across industries, we hear the same thing: “We want something different for our next event.”

1. Breaks the Ice Instantly

Few things melt away workplace awkwardness like your manager doing The Robot to a Taylor Swift remix on channel two. The headphone setup gives everyone permission to let loose — even those who usually skip the dance floor.

2. No Venue Drama

Seattle venues often come with strict noise ordinances. Hosting a rooftop event in Capitol Hill? Planning a waterfront happy hour in West Seattle? With a silent disco, there’s no need to worry about sound levels or disturbing neighbors.

3. Inclusive & Low-Pressure Fun

Not everyone loves icebreakers or competitive games. Silent discos are great because participation is effortless — no spotlight, no stage. People can dance, chat, or just vibe at their own pace. It’s the type of event where extroverts, introverts, and everyone in between can engage on their terms.

4. Memorable Without Being Cheesy

Let’s face it: most team-building events are forgettable. A silent disco, though? Your team will be talking about it for weeks. It turns “just another offsite” into a night they’ll actually want to post about.

Final Thoughts

Team-building doesn’t have to mean trust falls or awkward mixers. With a silent disco, you’re giving your team space to relax, move, and genuinely enjoy each other’s company. And in a city as vibrant, creative, and eclectic as Seattle — what better way to celebrate your people than with a party they’ll never forget?