ABOUT THE VALENCIA BALLROOM
A HISTORY OF THE VALENCIA BALLROOM
The building housing today’s Valencia was built on North George Street in downtown York, Pennsylvania. Before World War I, the facility, known as “The Coliseum,” served as a lecture hall and hosted musical performances from the pre–World War I era. Following World War I, The Coliseum was the site for leisure and sports activities such as basketball and wrestling.
The Coliseum closed during the Great Depression. Peter Tassia, whose family owned a wholesale green grocery distribution company in York, relocated his business to 156 N. George St., purchases the hall adjoining The Coliseum, which later becomes known as the Valencia Ballroom.
The Tassia family hired renowned York architect Edward Leber to revamp the former Coliseum space to create a swing dance music hall.
The Valencia witnessed another building remodeling and expansion project.
The renovated Valencia facility hosted scores of swing music and big band artists. York’s proximity to major cities enabled the community to attract the talent to the community. During this time, the Tassia family operated a radio station within the 100 block of North George Street to air live music programs that were shared with other radio stations.
The Valencia closed to the public, ending its operation by the Tassia family.
Relocating from a facility near Penn Park in downtown York, York’s Dutch Club acquired the Valencia property and established their club headquarters here. The club operated there for approximately 15 years until it closed.
WHAT YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT THE VALENCIA BALLROOM
LOCAL BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS
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OUR GALLERY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I get to the Valencia Ballroom?
The Valencia Ballroom is located in downtown York, Pennsylvania. Downtown York is easily accessible from all points north, south, east, and west. The main roadways into the city are George and Queen streets from the north and south, and Market and Philadelphia streets from the east and west.
From Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and all locations east:
- Travel on S. Route 30 West to North George Street.
- Turn left onto North George Street.
- Travel south on George Street. The Valencia Ballroom is at 142 N. George St.
From Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and all locations north:
- Travel on I-83 South to U.S. Route 30 West to Exit 22 (North George Street).
- Stay in the middle lane and turn right at the right onto North George Street.
- Travel south on George Street. The Valencia Ballroom is at 142 N. George St.
From Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and all locations west:
- Travel on S. Route 30 East to North George Street.
- Turn right onto North George Street.
- Travel south on George Street. The Valencia Ballroom is at 142 N. George St.
From Baltimore, Maryland, and all locations south:
- Travel on I-83 North to Exit 15 (South George Street).
- Follow signs for Business Route I-83 and South George Street.
- Stay straight on George Street. The Valencia Ballroom is at 142 N. George St.
Where can I park my vehicle?
Parking is plentiful in York, with 350 on-street meters and 1,260 garage spaces in three garages located within walking distance to the Valencia Ballroom.
Parking meters are enforced Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is free on Sundays and holidays observed by the City of York, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for parking meters located in the retail areas of the city. Meters are marked with the hours of operation and enforcement. Meter rates are 5 cents per 3 minutes, 10 cents per 6 minutes, and 25 cents per 15 minutes. A maximum of 2 hours is allowed at all York City meters.
Parking garages are located at:
- Market Street (41 E. Market St.)
- Philadelphia Street (25 W. Philadelphia St.)
- King Street (15 W. King St.)
- Central Market (Intersection of West Philadelphia and North Beaver streets)
What is the seating capacity for the main event space inside the Valencia?
The main event space (approximately 50 by 100 feet) seats a maximum of 550 people.
What hospitality amenities are provided at the Valencia?
White Rose Bar & Grill Catering provides full bar and food service at the Valencia as well as linens, chairs, and tables.
What type of catering is available at the Valencia?
White Rose Bar & Grill Catering can provide packages for buffet options. For other types of catering, please use our contact form.
Are audio-visual services available at the Valencia?
Yes, you can secure audio-visual services from one of our preferred vendors. Internet and Wi-Fi access are available in the building.
What are some of the Valencia’s distinctive features?
The Valencia offers a full-service bar in the facility in addition to a dance floor, stage for entertainment, and a balcony that overlooks the main-level event space. Learn more about the history of the Valencia history in downtown York, Pennsylvania.
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