ABSOLUTE BEGINNER TRACK

A Signature Table is a private reserved table located directly in front of the stage for your group. VIP Seating consists of premium theater-style seating located immediately behind the Signature Tables. Both offer excellent views, but only Signature Tables include a private table.

The CALDAC Showcase Performances are professionally produced stage shows featuring incredible talent from around the world. Each showcase celebrates the artistry, culture, and passion of Afro-Latin dance through performances by featured artists, professional companies, dance schools, student teams, youth groups, and independent performers.

2026 CALDAC DJs: DJ CharunDJ ShunDJ Freddy FreshDJ CasanovaDJ OluDJ ByronDJ MbraceDJ GummybearDJSquaredDJ OscarDJ BachamorDJ CubaDJ PapiDJ LilyliciousDJ WayDJ DivaDJ Tommy TimbalDJ TitoDJ AfrodeshiakDJ JenrryDJ SebasDJ Manso

Yes. CALDAC is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, educating, and preserving Afro-Latin culture through dance, music, and the arts.

Our DEI Statement outlines CALDAC's commitment to providing a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone who participates in our programs and events.

Each year, CALDAC welcomes world-class instructors, performers, musicians, and DJs from around the globe. Visit our Artists page for the latest lineup at https://www.caldacon.org/artist2026 Musical ArtistsMayinbitoNic N’TayaConjunto ColoresVisiting Artists/InstructorsAdolfo IndacocheaAmneris MartinezBenny & AshleyDe'Jon & CloDJ CharunKarel FloresKatlyn RodriguezPipe & KathyRaul & DeliaSamuel FunflowTayler & Luis (Sensual Movement)Adriana & JorgeAngelica & JahairaByron Alberto Morales LorcaCAM Dance CompanyCarlos & SusanCasino StarsChelsey OwenChi X MvmtClifton CadenceDJ AfrodeshiakDJ Andres Meneses (Latin Street Chicago)Fabia Lorena (Latin Street Chicago)DJ Freddy FreshDJ BachamorDJ Olu ShogoDJ ShunEdwin & AhtoyInessenceJK Dance CompanyJose Luis GutierrezJovan CasanovaJsquaredKiki El SilencioKnockout Lawrence Garcia & Jewel Hughes-PearlMambo A lo AyalaMax & TanyaMilton MartinezNatasha Tia WienerOneysisOscar & ThaliaRebaRenato RamalhoRico ParisSade & BetoSebastian FonyoArthur LevineAlain & ElijahSalsa FinaDJ Gummy BearColorado & Local ArtistsColorado New StyleLatisha HardySandra & ZachDesi CalienteDiego & YuYuB-SensualJuan MejiaRudy & YvonneDanae & MirandaTito GarciaDamilola ElegbedeNathan HookEric Freeman & Marcela LayCeleste WilliamsonMaysa BachirDiane PageChris WebsterSebastian PonceJesica CutlerJared & NicoleRafael AyureFort Collins Salsa CollectiveRachel FarleyEbonie LeeDevon Near-HillJazmyne LewisDJ Tommy TimbalDJ JenrryDJ CubaDJ LilyliciousDJ WayDJ DivaDJ MansoConjunto ColoresAdam TaubPhotography/VideographyPhil Nguyen (NewSparx Media)JC (MistaBu)Alex Brondo (Brondo Movement)Oscar Valdez (OGV Productions) Our lineup represents Salsa, Mambo, Bachata, Kizomba, Zouk, Afro-Latin dance, live music, performance, and more. Artists and programming are subject to change.

CALDAC features workshops in salsa, bachata, Afro-Latin dance, shines, styling, musicality, body movement, partnerwork, technique, social dancing, performance skills, and more. Our goal is to offer something valuable for every dancer.

The CALDAC Convention attracts more than 2,000 dancers, performers, instructors, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts from Colorado and beyond. It's an excellent opportunity to showcase your products, grow your business, and connect with an engaged community.

Yes! Live music is one of the highlights of the CALDAC Convention. Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy incredible performances by talented bands that bring even more energy and excitement to the dance floor.

Volunteering is a great way to support the Afro-Latin dance community, meet new people, gain behind-the-scenes event experience, and help create an unforgettable convention for thousands of attendees. Learn more at www.caldacon.org/volunteer

The Smoothest Dancer is a social dance competition presented by CALDAC and BIG Salsa Festivals. Unlike a traditional dance competition, the focus is on the quality of the social dance experience—connection, musicality, confidence, smoothness, and how enjoyable you are to dance with.

The CALDAC app helps you organize your entire convention experience. You can browse classes, view instructors, save your favorites, follow the daily schedule, and build your own personalized itinerary.

The CALDAC Store offers official convention merchandise, including apparel, accessories, souvenirs, and other exclusive items available throughout the year and during the convention.https://www.caldacon.org/shop

This is an exclusive 2-hour intensive with world-renowned dancer, choreographer, and instructor Karel Flores, focused on Salsa Ladies’ Styling, technique, body movement, musicality, footwork, arm styling, and personal expression.

Your donation helps preserve Afro-Latin culture while expanding access to dance, music, education, and community programs. Every gift helps CALDAC create opportunities that extend far beyond our annual convention.

YES!! This year we will be offering Salsa, Bachata beginner bootcamps. Each bootcamp will be a total of *2 hours* over the weekend(Friday & Saturday) and will give you the technique and basic patterns that you can use in your social dances over the weekend!

The official host hotel for the CALDAC Convention is Hyatt Regency Denver Anschutz Medical Campus (13200 E 14th PlaceAurora, CO 80011)For 2027, the link to book the hotel is https://www.hyatt.com/events/en-US/group-booking/DENHY/G-9DS1.

Thursday: Emerald Night – Wear your favorite shades of emerald green and kick off the weekend in style.Friday: Rep Your Country – Celebrate your heritage by wearing your country's colors, flag, or cultural attire.Saturday: Black & Gold Ball – Dress to impress in elegant black and gold attire for the convention's most glamorous evening.Sunday: CALDAC T-Shirt Night – Wrap up the weekend by wearing your favorite CALDAC T-shirt and celebrating one last night together.

We recommend flying into Denver International Airport (DEN), which is approximately 20 miles from the convention hotels.

To ensure your ticket is valid, we strongly recommend purchasing directly through our official ticketing channels. If you are considering purchasing a ticket from a third party, please email us at info@caldac.org before completing the transaction so we can help verify its authenticity.

The Triple-C Plan is CALDAC's long-term strategic framework for preserving Afro-Latin culture, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities through dance, music, education, and the arts.

The full convention schedule is available on our website at: https://www.caldacon.org/eventscheduleThe schedule can also be found in the CALDAC app . We recommend checking both regularly for updates.

Special Training consists of premium educational experiences offered in addition to the regular convention workshops. These include Master Classes, Bootcamps, Challenges, Certifications, and Beginner Tracks led by featured instructors. These special trainings may require an additional fee to participate.

CALDAC offers a variety of ticket options to fit different schedules and interests, including:Full PassVIP Full PassSignature TablesMaster Class PassesPerformer PassesDay PassesNight PassesDance Performance PassesThursday Pre-Party PassesSome specialty tickets and upgrades are available in limited quantities and may sell out.

The Full Pass offers the best overall value. It provides access to four days of workshops, performances, concerts, social dancing, and all five dance rooms, making it the most economical choice for anyone planning to attend multiple events.

The airport is about a 25–35 minute drive from the Hyatt Regency, depending on traffic.

Unfortunately, popular events often attract scammers. This page is here to help you recognize common scams and protect your money, your personal information, and your convention experience.

Yes. CALDAC is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion, education, and preservation of Afro-Latin culture through the arts.

Showcases take place throughout the convention:Thursday Pre-Party Showcase: 11:00 PMFriday Evening Showcase: Doors open at 7:15 PM. Performances begin shortly afterward.Saturday Evening Showcase: Doors open at 7:15 PM. Performances begin shortly afterward.Sunday Matinee Showcase: Doors open at 5:00 PM. Performances begin shortly afterward.Sunday Evening Finale Showcase: Doors open at 7:15 PM. Performances begin shortly afterward.

Here are the links to download the app. Available for iPhones and Androids.Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.caldac.festivalplanner&pli=1Apple Store / iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/colorado-afro-latin-dance-con/id6504887299

Yes. Workshops are included with Full Passes and Performers Passes unless otherwise noted.

Not at all! Dressing for the theme is completely optional. Whether you participate or not, everyone is welcome on the dance floor.

Regular workshops are included with your convention pass and typically last about an hour. Special Training offers longer, more in-depth instruction that allows instructors to dive deeper into technique, concepts, and skill development.

The masterclass takes place on Sunday from 3:00 PM–5:00 PM during the CALDAC Convention.

Friday: Conjunto Colores (from Denver, CO)Saturday: Nic N'taya (from Miami/Cuba)Sunday: Mayinbito (from Dominican Republic/New York)

We welcome vendors whose products or services complement our community and can be used and valuable to our attendees. Dance and non-dance related vendors are welcome.

Yes. Every item sold through the CALDAC Store is officially designed or approved by CALDAC.

It reflects our commitment to ensuring that all participants are treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their background or identity.

The DJ schedule is available on the CALDAC website and in the CALDAC app. You can see who is playing, what room they are in, and their scheduled times.

Signature Tables are the closest seating option, located directly in front of the stage. The VIP Seating Section is immediately behind the Signature Tables.

Triple-C stands for:Cultural Awareness & PreservationCommunity Involvement & EngagementCommunity EmpowermentTogether, these three pillars guide everything CALDAC does.

Yes. We also have room blocks at:SpringHill Suites Denver at Anschutz Medical CampusThe overflow hotel is about a 5min walk to the convention main hotel.For 2026, both hotels are currently sold out. But you can call periodically to see if any rooms open up.

Partnering with CALDAC is an opportunity to do more than promote your brand. It's a chance to support the preservation of Afro-Latin culture, invest in community programs, and connect with one of the region's largest and most engaged dance communities. Learn more at https://www.caldacon.org/sponsors

No. Smoothest Dancer is not a traditional Jack & Jill or choreography-based competition. Competitors will social dance with featured artists and instructors who will score their overall experience dancing with you.

Anyone who is dependable, enthusiastic, and committed to providing a positive experience for our attendees is encouraged to apply.

Full pass/VIP pass prices range from approximately $100 to $500. Prices increase as we get closer to the event, therefore, it is better to purchase as soon as you can. Purchase tickets atwww.caldactickets.com

Everyone. CALDAC welcomes participants regardless of race, color, national origin, age, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or impairment.

Complete the Vendor Application on our website. Once received, our Vendor Team will review your application and contact you with the next steps. For more information, visit : https://www.caldacon.org/vendors

The most common scams involve:Fake convention ticketsUnauthorized ticket sellersFake hotel reservationsFake social media accountsFraudulent vendor offersFake sponsorship requestsPhishing emails pretending to be CALDAC

Most Full Passes, Performers Passes, and VIP Passes include admission to the showcase performances. Check your pass type for complete details.

No. A Signature Table reserves your seating location only. Every guest seated at the table must also have a valid pass that grants admission to the showcase ballroom.

Your Full Pass includes access to:All workshopsEvening dance performancesLive concertsSocial dancingAll five dance roomsFour days of convention activities

No. Most volunteer positions do not require any experience.

Sponsorships help fund the annual convention, educational workshops, youth initiatives, scholarships, artist programming, and community outreach. They allow us to expand access while maintaining the quality of our programs.

The themes create a fun, immersive atmosphere, encourage creativity, make for amazing photos, and help bring our dance community together.

The masterclass is 2 hours, allowing participants to go deeper into technique, movement, and styling than they typically would in a standard convention workshop.

Yes. While we do our best to keep the published schedule, changes may occur due to travel delays, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances.

No. Special Training requires a separate registration fee in addition to your Full, Performers, or VIP Pass.

Most featured artists teach workshops, though schedules vary depending on each artist's availability and role during the convention.

Yes. You can browse the full class schedule and see when and where each class is taking place and which instructor will be teaching.

There are two divisions: Salsa and Bachata. You may register for Salsa, Bachata, or both.

Yes. While we work hard to avoid changes, adjustments may occur due to travel, artist availability, or other unforeseen circumstances.

The Triple-C Plan was created to ensure that CALDAC's work extends beyond hosting a convention. It provides a roadmap for creating lasting cultural, educational, and community impact throughout the year.

No. Simply show up a few minutes before class begins. Seating and space are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yes. It is more cost-effective to purchase early and online, but yes tickets can be purchased at the door.

Yes. Live concert admission is included with CALDAC Full Passes. You do not need to purchase a separate concert ticket.

You have several convenient options, including rideshare services, rental cars, taxis, or public transportation using Denver's A Line commuter rail.

As a nonprofit, ticket sales cover only a portion of our annual operating costs. Donations help fund educational programs, youth initiatives, scholarships, artists, community outreach, and other mission-driven work throughout the year.

Yes! Many items are created exclusively for the current year's convention and may not be available again once they sell out.

We recommend booking the Hyatt Regency first whenever possible, since it's the main convention hotel. If those rooms are sold out, we encourage you to book one of our overflow hotels.

Full Passes are not required for the master classes but a Full Pass is required to participate in the Absolute beginner Track (and the Absolute beginner Special Training is included in the Full Pass)Karel Flores Masterclass: Full Pass NOT REQUIRED.Adam Taub Masterclass: Full Pass NOT REQUIRED.Absolute Beginner Track: Full Pass REQUIRED

The VIP Full Pass includes everything offered with the Full Pass, plus premium reserved seating for the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening showcase performances.If you want the complete convention experience along with some of the best seats in the house, the VIP Full Pass is the perfect choice.

Complete the Volunteer Application on our website. Your application will be reviewed and if selected the volunteer would contact you with next steps. All volunteer spots have already been filled for CALDAC 2026. We are no longer accepting applications at this time but if you would want to be on the waiting list you may still fill out the form. Please note that joining the waitlist does not guarantee a volunteer spot.

Your gift directly supports CALDAC's mission by helping fund cultural programming, educational initiatives, youth opportunities, artist support, community events, and organizational growth.

Yes. You may compete in both genres, but each genre requires a separate competition entry.

Afro-Latin dance, music, and traditions represent generations of history, creativity, and resilience. CALDAC believes these cultural expressions should be celebrated, preserved, and shared with future generations.

Yes. The RTD A Line provides direct rail service from Denver International Airport to Peoria Station.

No. CALDAC does not tolerate discrimination or exclusion in any form.

Each workshop is labeled with a recommended level so you can choose classes that best fit your experience and goals.

No. Vendor applications are reviewed before approval to ensure the best overall vendor experience and product diversity.

This masterclass is designed for dancers who already have a foundation in Salsa and want to develop their styling, technique, confidence, movement quality, musicality, and personal expression.

Friday: Conjunto Colores (doors open at 10pm. Live Concert Begins at 12:00am)Saturday: Nic N'Taya (doors open at 10pm. Live Concert Begins at 12:00am)Sunday: Mayinbito (doors open at 10pm. Live Concert Begins at 12:00am)

Use the hotel booking links provided on our Hotel page to receive the special CALDAC group rate while rooms remain available.

Yes. Select items may be available online before the event while supplies last.

Many featured artists perform during the convention, giving attendees the opportunity to experience their talent both on and off the dance floor.

Yes. A VIP Pass includes admission to the performances covered by the pass, along with access to the VIP Seating Section.

Performance-only tickets may be available, depending on availability. Visit our Tickets page for current pricing and options.

Most definitely, you have the option to buy a Day Only Pass, Show Only, Social Only and Full Day Pass (which includes Workshops during the day, shows and social at night) ALL options are readily available and can be purchased at www.caldactickets.com​

CALDAC is more than a convention. We're a year-round nonprofit organization using dance, music, and the arts to preserve culture, strengthen communities, and create opportunities.

Yes. The CALDAC app lets you see the full DJ schedule, including which DJ is playing, what time they are playing, and which room or dance floor they will be in. This makes it easy to find your favorite DJs and plan where you want to dance throughout the weekend.

Yes. The CALDAC app is the best place to view the latest schedule updates during the convention.

Nightly themes are optional dress themes that add extra fun and excitement to each evening of the convention. Each night has its own unique theme, giving attendees a chance to dress up, take memorable photos, and celebrate together while enjoying the social dancing and festivities. Participation is completely optional, but many attendees enjoy joining in.

Absolutely. Multiple DJs rotate throughout the convention, bringing different musical styles, personalities, and energy to the dance floor.

Always purchase your pass through the official CALDAC website and authorized ticketing platform.

This pillar focuses on celebrating and educating others about Afro-Latin culture through performances, workshops, artists, educational programs, festivals, and community events.

Yes. You may register as a Lead or Follow. Each genre is limited to 20 Leads and 20 Follows.

You can find the complete performance schedule on our website and in the CALDAC app https://www.caldacon.org/caldacapp

Participants should be comfortable with Salsa timing and basic footwork. Karel will explore more advanced styling and movement concepts, so prior Salsa experience is strongly recommended.

Absolutely. Visit the CALDAC Store booth during the event to browse our latest merchandise.

Volunteers are asked to complete at least 10 hours of service during the convention in exchange for a full pass to the whole event.

No. Signature Tables are sold for the entire convention weekend and are not available for individual nights.

These programs provide extended instruction, smaller class sizes in many cases, and a more immersive learning experience than standard convention workshops.

The Hyatt Regency offers a complimentary shuttle between Peoria Station and the hotel. We recommend calling the hotel before boarding the train so they know to expect you.

Both passes include the complete convention experience.The VIP Full Pass also includes reserved VIP seating for the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening showcases.

Wear emerald green or incorporate shades of green into your outfit. Whether it's a dress, shirt, tie, accessories, or jewelry, have fun with the theme.

Not at all! You're welcome to attend one, several, or all of the performances throughout the weekend.

Yes! Many artists participate in workshops, socials, performances, and community activities throughout the weekend.

CALDAC brings together a diverse community of dancers, artists, and dance lovers from Colorado and beyond. In 2025, approximately 2,300 people attended the CALDAC Convention, with about 64% coming from Colorado and 36% traveling from outside the state. Attendees range from complete beginners and social dancers to performers, instructors, DJs, musicians, and professional artists.

Absolutely. We offer beginner-friendly workshops specifically designed for dancers with little or no experience.

Most vendor applications are reviewed within 2–4 weeks.

Yes. There is a built-in feature where you can add your preferred classes into your personal schedule. You are able to view this schedule separately to see only the classes that you chose.

Absolutely. Every donation—large or small—helps move our mission forward. Every gift makes a difference.

Yes. Booking through the official CALDAC room block may provide access to discounted room rates.

Yes. Each ballroom has its own DJ schedule, allowing attendees to enjoy different dance styles and musical experiences at the same time.

Workshop times vary each day. Please refer to the official schedule for the most current information.

Yes, but before sending any money, email info@caldac.org so we can verify that the ticket is legitimate and eligible for transfer.Official CALDAC Ticket Transfer Process: https://www.caldacon.org/transfer-tickets

Unfortunately no. The passes are transferable but NOT refundable. The deadline for ticket transfer is Sept 14. Visit www.caldacon.org/transfer-tickets to get ticket transfer information.

Yes. It applies to attendees, instructors, performers, volunteers, vendors, sponsors, staff, board members, and partners.

Yes. Monthly giving is one of the most impactful ways to support CALDAC because it provides reliable funding for our year-round programs.

We can verify whether the ticket is legitimate and whether the transfer follows our official transfer policy, helping you avoid purchasing an invalid or fraudulent pass.

No. Even a small touch of emerald green is enough to join the fun.

Some items may remain available online, but limited-edition products often sell out and may not be restocked.

Both are available for the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening showcase performances only. They are not available for the Thursday Night Showcase or the Sunday Matinee.

During the day, attendees can enjoy workshops, specialty classes, competitions, shopping, networking, and other convention activities.

You will need to go to the registration table and bring your ID with you to get another wristband. If your wristband breaks, please bring the old wristband and you will receive a new one in exchange (You still need your ID for this).

There are 30 total vendor spaces available. These typically sells out before the convention. We recommend applying as early as possible.

This pillar emphasizes creating meaningful connections by partnering with schools, nonprofits, businesses, artists, and community organizations to expand access to dance and cultural experiences.

CALDAC is supported by a wide range of arts organizations, foundations, cultural institutions, community partners, and businesses. Past supporters and collaborators include organizations such as Colorado Ballet, Colorado Symphony, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Arvada Center, Lone Tree Arts Center, Denver Jazz Festival, KUVO Jazz, Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, The Denver Foundation, Colorado Creative Industries, Denver Black Arts Festival, and the Denver Nuggets. These relationships help CALDAC expand access to dance, music, arts education, cultural programming, and community experiences throughout Colorado.

Preferably not. We highly recommend taking workshops that match your current dance level so you can get the most out of the class and, most importantly, for your safety and the safety of the other dancers.

Depending on the year, Special Training may include Master Classes, Bootcamps, Challenges, Certifications, Beginner Tracks, and other specialty learning experiences.

If our room block is full, don't give up! Contact the hotel directly to check for additional room availability. Hotels sometimes have cancellations or inventory available outside of the CALDAC room block.