One of the most rewarding ways to connect with your local dance community is through festivals and events. Luckily, there is a rich tapestry of dance events in Canada featuring international dance talent, Canadian dance companies, dance competitions, and dance conventions. The camaraderie and sense of community at these dance events are palpable. Dancers and non-dancer audiences alike come together to share stories, enhance creativity, support local arts and push dance artistry to new heights. Here are some upcoming Canadian dance events to attend and create lifelong memories:

The View Dance Challenge

Dubbed “Canada’s Favourite Dance Competition,” the View Dance Challenge hosts dozens of events across Canada and the United States from March to May. With its mission to inspire, educate, and connect dancers of all ages and backgrounds, the View Dance Challenge has become a platform where talent, artistry, and creativity collide in a stunning dance extravaganza.

The View Dance Challenge is more than just a competition. Dancers from various genres, styles, and backgrounds come together to showcase their talents and share their stories through movement. Whether you’re classical ballet or hip-hop , this challenge offers an inclusive and supportive environment where dancers can learn, grow, and make lasting connections in the dance community.

Their 2024 convention dates are selling out FAST! (Like, months in advance…) So don’t wait to register if you plan to. 

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Toronto International Dance Festival

Running through October and November in Scarborough, Ontario, the Toronto International Dance Festival (TIDF) hosts multiple workshops bringing dance styles from around the world to your doorstep. 

Classes in a wide array of styles like Kathak, Cinematic Folk (or film dance), Classical Ballet, Contemporary, Modern, K-Pop, Belly Dance, Bhangra, Latin and Ballroom are all available for registration. Don’t forget to pick up some Latin & Ballroom dance shoes for a first foray into a new discipline! 

The Toronto International Dance Festival pays tribute to International Dance Day which was inaugurated in 1982 by the International Dance Committee of the UNESCO International Theatre Institute. Supported by organizations like Toronto Arts Council, Canadian Multi Cultural Network, Canadian Heritage, Scarborough Rotary Club and more, TIDF seeks to promote the local art scene and acknowledge the many international contributions to Canadian society through dance. 

Vancouver International Dance Festival

The Vancouver International Dance Festival (VIDF) takes place early next year for an entire month, from February 27 until March 25. VIDF centers in contemporary dance, and the diversity that emerges from this exciting style. Showcasing pieces from world leading companies and individuals in contemporary dance, the festival is known to draw audiences of over 100,000 over the course of the month. These shows explore themes of transition, beauty, energy, Queer exploration and much more. They also host workshops available to the public in a handful of styles and levels. 

Now in its 23rd year, VIDF has grown exponentially and is proud to bring the best of international contemporary talent to the city for a program of can’t-miss events. 

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Festival TransAmériques

Held annually in Quebec, Montreal, the Festival TransAmériques (FTA) is back this coming year from May 22 to June 6, 2024. FTA is a festival of contemporary dance and theatre, bringing an average of 25 shows to both indoor performance venues and outdoor public spaces across the city. Their programming team travels across the world, scouting the very best and brightest. This beloved festival draws huge crowds to see both international and local contemporary dance stars. 

FTA places a special emphasis on current social and political issues, giving voice to the broad inspirations in contemporary dance and cultivating community.  

Dance Events in Canada: Dancers & Audiences

Whether you’re a seasoned performer wanting to expand your skills with workshops or conventions,  a novice taking your first steps onto the dance floor, or someone simply looking for a great show, consider attending local dance events. It’s a chance to be inspired, to grow, and to be a part of the ever-evolving dance landscape.