Photos Where Parking Lots Were a ’70s Dance Floor

People just wanted to have fun

Being young in the seventies meant there could be a party in pretty much any place you went. Music was evolving into more danceable styles, and any clothes you could wear were perfect for a party, so you were always ready to drink, smoke, and have fun.

In the meantime, America was falling in love with parking lots, building new big ones around pretty much every corner, and for places like malls, supermarkets, and high schools, whether they needed one or not. And they quickly became a place to hang out and dance until the sun came up. The main reason was that it was free, and there was always one friend in the group who could borrow their parents' car for a ride to take groups of 3 to 15 friends in a very safe manner.

So, here are some photos where parking lots were a '70s dance floor for teens.

San Fernando Valley

The calm before the party or after?

LA in '79

You didn't need a fancy car to have fun.

Teenage Years

They all arrived in the same car.

Party Hard

Cocktails and books, that's where it's at.

Freedom

This was one of the best feelings in the world.

Highscool Parking Lot

Everything cool about high school happened here, not inside.

Church Parking Lot

No parking lot was safe from partying teenagers.

Chicks and Cars

There was a whole genre of photography with girls posing with their cars.

Sausage Party

It was like that sometimes.

Before a Concert

Getting ready, if you know what I mean.

Montreal, 1977

Canada could party too.

Roller Party

The eighties are coming!

Party Outfit

The sixties were retro.

Hanging Out

Not everything was dancing and partying.

School's Out

Looks like the real-life Breakfast Club.

Drinking Outside

No rules.

High School Lot

Not a cellphone in sight, just kids having fun.

Sports Team

Wherever they went, the party followed.

1978 Fun

Enjoying the hair while it lasts.

Responsible Party

Do you know what your kid is doing right now?

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