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Annual “Elaine Dance Contest” Crowns the Fan Who Best Captures the Iconic Dance From ‘Seinfeld’

By Margherita Cole on August 25, 2023

It's been over 20 years since Seinfeld ended, but the beloved 90s sitcom still holds a special place in people's hearts. While there are numerous jokes to recall from the TV show, one of the most memorable visual gags is the quirky dance performed by Julia Louis-Dreyfus' character Elaine Benes in the season eight episode “The Little Kicks.”

Described as “a full-bodied dry heave set to music” by George Costanza, the routine has lived on as a part of the show's hilarious legacy. Every year, numerous Seinfeld fans participate in the “Elaine Dance Contest” hosted by the Brooklyn Cyclones, a minor league baseball team based in Coney Island. The person who best recreates Louis-Dreyfus' moves is crowned the winner.

The competition falls on the Brooklyn Cyclones' Seinfeld Night. There are many activities inspired by the show, but the “Elaine Dance Contest” is the most anticipated part of the evening. On their Instagram account, the Brooklyn Cyclones shared a montage of some of the best moves they saw. Fans dressed in outfits inspired by Elaine's 90s fashion and tried their best to imitate the flurry of kicks and knee bends, while also remembering to stick their thumbs up—a key part of the routine.

Many did an excellent job recreating Louis-Dreyfus's quirky moves, but only one was awarded first place and the special honor of being crowned “Elaine.” Participant Mary Notari took home the trophy in the end. Dressed in an ensemble reminiscent of Elaine Benes' office wear, she did a wonderful job mimicking the stilted movements, and she seemed to have a wonderful time doing so.