Dance marathons, also known as danceathons or walkathons, were a form of competition that started in the 1920s and continued on through to the 1930s, becoming a popular form of entertainment during the depression era. Cash prizes brought contestants, many of whom became regulars at competitions and gained fan followings. The shows were often accompanied by live music and special events to keep the crowd entertained. The materials in this collection likely originated as part of a scrapbook compiled by organizer and promoter, Vernon Balfour, and documents multiple walkathon and dance marathon competitions around California, including ones held at Bay Area event venues that no longer exist.

The collection comprises programs, advertisements, broadsides, newspaper clippings, tickets and invitations promoting upcoming events, many of which offered live music and singers, making it as much a spectacle as a competition.

Included in the collection are multiple formal portraits of contestants, often couples, that were often sold to ticket holders at the events. Some couples became well-known enough to develop a following and their participation alone would attract crowds.