A salsa lesson hosted during a SummerDance in the Parks event Downtown View Full Caption Facebook/SummerDance in the Parks

CHICAGO — Be ready to work up a sweat Thursday when the SummerDance in the Parks series brings free salsa dancing lessons to Portage Park, 4100 N. Long Ave.

Starting at 6 p.m., volunteers will offer a lesson on the basic steps and rhythm of the lightning-paced Caribbean dance style.

After that, attendees can show off their newfound skills to the music of Orquesta Charangueo and May I Have This Dance until 9 p.m.

Organized by the city's Park District and Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, the SummerDance series will host dance workshops in parks all over the city though November.

The event is free and open to the public.