2026 WDSF DanceSport Festival in Blackpool: What’s New and Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The 2026 WDSF DanceSport Festival returns to the iconic Winter Gardens, Blackpool, from 26 to 29 March, promising four days of world-class competition, excitement, and community. This year’s edition brings a host of new features and experiences that make it an unmissable event for athletes, fans, and DanceSport enthusiasts alike.
Two Stunning Halls
For the first time, the Festival will be hosted across two magnificent venues: the Empress Ballroom and the Spanish Hall, offering more space and a spectacular setting for the competitions. Visitors can enjoy a dynamic atmosphere across both halls, capturing every thrilling moment from the Winter Gardens.
Expanded Exhibitor Space
The Festival will also feature a new space for exhibitors at the Horseshoe Pavilion, showcasing the latest products, services, and innovations in DanceSport. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore and connect with the industry.
Exciting New Competition Categories
This year introduces several new competition categories, reflecting the growing diversity and talent in DanceSport:
- WDSF DanceSport Festival Championship Standard Youth, Junior II and Under 21
- WDSF DanceSport Festival Championship Latin Junior II and Under 21
- WDSF Open Standard Junior I and Juvenile
- WDSF Open Latin Juvenile and Junior I
- WDSF Open Solo Latin Female Youth, Junior II and Adult
- WDSF Open Ten Dance Junior I
- WDSF Open 6 Dance Juvenile
These additions ensure that dancers of all ages and levels have the chance to shine on the international stage of the Winter Gardens.
Meet the Stars: A First-Time Experience at WDSF
Another exciting innovation at the 2026 Festival is the Meet & Greet with star athletes, an experience being introduced for the very first time in WDSF history. In collaboration with BDDance x UDance, this unique session will allow attendees to connect directly with some of the world’s top dancers, gaining insight into their journey, training, and passion for DanceSport.
Full details of the session will be revealed closer to the event. Athletes can still register to participate and be part of this exclusive Meet & Greet here. Registration closes on 10th March.
This is a truly unmissable opportunity for fans and young dancers, offering a chance to experience the world of DanceSport up close like never before.
WDSF Lounge
Also for the first time, the WDSF Lounge will offer a private space with drinks and snacks. Visitors can relax, network, and enjoy the event in comfort while connecting with athletes, officials, and fellow guests. Tickets are available here.
Team Match – A Historic First for WDSF
One of the most exciting innovations of the 2026 Festival is the Team Match, a competition format being introduced for the very first time in WDSF history. In this unique event, competitors come together as teams in a friendly yet fiercely competitive setting.
The Team Match not only showcases individual skill but also emphasises strategy, coordination, and teamwork, creating a completely new layer of excitement for participants and spectators alike. Fans will witness a fresh and dynamic side of DanceSport, making this a truly historic moment for the Federation.
Shawn Tay, WDSF President, reflects on the importance of evolving the Festival:
“DanceSport is constantly evolving, and the 2026 WDSF DanceSport Festival shows our commitment to reinventing the experience for athletes and fans. From new competitions to team-based formats, we’re creating opportunities to inspire, challenge, and celebrate the incredible talent across the globe. Innovation is at the heart of what we do, and this Festival is a perfect example of that spirit.”
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