Weekly Overpass Visibility Dance Party' Lights Up Berkeley Freeway Every Friday Night

"Every honk is somebody saying, Yes, we agree,' Quinn told KPIX. We are here to protect our democracy and our community, and this is just a really fun way to do that. Quinn told KPIX the concept was first spawned by a costume joke last Halloween."

"The two came up with the idea to transform the space at night when the bridge is essentially empty, but the freeway below is highly active, per the Standard. The organizers aim to keep the event bright and accessible for everyone, especially families."

"It's something new and fresh for the drivers, Shanle told the Standard, as she handed out treats and strobe lights to attendees. A very positive, open, welcoming and family-friendly environment. The dance party format helps bring people together from all walks of life."

Since January, NICE (Not ICE), a group of local residents led by activist Jennifer Quinn, organizes weekly disco-style "Visibility Dance Parties" on the I-80 pedestrian overpass at University Avenue in Berkeley. Participants wear frog costumes and glow-sticks while dancing to encourage the estimated 12,000 cars passing hourly to honk in solidarity for democracy and community protection. The concept originated from a Halloween costume joke and evolved after Quinn attended a daytime protest in January, where she met Indivisible East Bay volunteer Maria Shanle. Together, they transformed the nighttime bridge into an accessible, family-friendly event featuring art, bubbles, twinkle lights, and shared snacks. The organizers emphasize creating a positive, welcoming environment that brings together people from diverse backgrounds through creative activism.

Read at sfist.com