Bay Salsa Festival
24 – 26 October, 2026, Tauranga
Dancers supporting dancers
The Experience
What started out as a one off event in 2006 has turned into one of New Zealand’s favourite salsa events of the year.
The first Bay Salsa Festival was run as a way of supporting the NZ Youth Salsa Team with their travels overseas by donating the profits of the event to help with their travel costs. This quickly turned into an annual fundraising event that is supported by teachers and participants from all over the country.
Dancers that are heading overseas to represent New Zealand on the international stage are welcome to apply for the Bay Salsa Festival Travel Grant.
All profits from the festival go into this grant.
Event Countdown
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
Kings and Queens Ball
Step into a world where confidence reigns, self-expression shines, adn everyone can wear their crown. This year’s Kings and Queens theme is all about celebrating what makes you feel powerful, fabulous, adn uniquely you.
Where you’re inspired by royalty, glamour, cance culture, fantasy or a touch of drag-inspired brilliance, this is your chance to rule the dance floor your way.
Here are some costume ideas to inspire your royal look:
-
Kings and Queens of History
-
Crowns, Jewels adn Regal Elegance
-
Salsa and Latin Dance Royalty
-
Drag Kings and Queens
-
Fantasy Rulers and Mythical Monarchs
-
Royal Characters from Movies, TV and Pop Culture
- Kings and Queens of the Animal Kingdom
Whether you go all out with a show-stopping royal ensemble or simply add a crown, cape, or a touch or sparkle, the most important thing is to embrace the theme, have fun, adn let your outfit relfect you own unique version of royalty.
The Bay Salsa Festival is brought to life by a team of dedicated volunteers passionate about dance and community. Join some of New Zealand’s top Latin dancers and teachers this Labour Weekend in sunny Tauranga, and be part of a weekend that celebrates rhythm, connection, and creativity. Don’t miss it!
Gather your court. Claim your crown. Rule the dance floor.
25
Workshops
2
Nights of parties
5+
Dance Styles
Highlights from 2019
Useful Information
Registration
Whether you want a ticket for the entire weekend or just part of it. There is a registration option for you.
Performers
Venues
We have multiple venues over the weekend. Find our more about where to be.
What a weekend. Thank you so much for organizing this event and to all the people who danced with me
Jay Jain
Online Sales are now closed, but you're not too late. Door sales are availalbe at the venues.