Bay Salsa Festival
24 – 27 October, 2025, 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
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Down The Rabbit Hole Ball
Step into a world of whimsy, wonder, and a touch of the unexpected! Inspired by the curious journey of Alice and her adventures, this year’s theme invites you to get creative and explore the surreal, the eccentric, and the fantastical.
Here are some costume ideas to spark your imagination:
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Mad Hatters and White Rabbits
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Playing Cards and Painted Roses
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Tea Party Glam
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Clockwork and Pocket Watches
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Enchanted Forest Creatures
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Optical Illusions and Whimsical Patterns
Whether you go full Wonderland or simply add a touch of the magical, the most important thing is to have fun and let your outfit reflect your unique journey Down the Rabbit Hole.
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!
25
Workshops
3
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.