Cannon late-night dance open to personnel, surrounding community

Building community and dancing all night — people age 21 and older can do both in tonight’s Late Nighter at The Landing at Cannon Air Force Base.

The dance is open to Cannon personnel and the surrounding community. It includes free snacks, alcohol and two disc jockeys playing at the same time, one with Hispanic music and one with hip-hop, club Manager Ted Watson said.

Watson said the event aims to get airmen and civilians to socialize.

“We want people to know what we do,” he said, adding organizers also want the base to be friendly.

“There’s a lot to be learned from each other,” Watson said. “We all need to be enjoying each other and seeing how we can help each other.”

Attendees should enter through the West Gate, off Curry Road R, and need valid picture identification. They aren’t allowed to bring weapons, food or alcohol.

The Late Nighter parties, sponsored by the Forces Support Squadron, have been happening at Cannon since 2001.

Watson said he returned from Japan, where he had been holding such events, and decided to start something similar at Cannon. The idea took off, he said.

“We’re trying to refine it, do a deluxe-type thing,” Watson said, explaining that he wants to bring in people.

Forces Support Squadron Marketing Director Yolanda Romero said the dance is in a safe environment and fun, and no one can beat the low admission charge.

“I mean, for $5, you can get in and dance the night away until 3 a.m.,” she said.

What: Late Nighter at the Landing

When: 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., tonight and Jan. 29

Where: The Landing, Cannon Air Force Base

Admission: $5, valid picture ID

Age: 21 and up