Welcome Program

New to Calgary Dance Stampede? We’ve got you.

 

Whether it’s your first dance event or your first time at the Calgary Dance Stampede, our Welcome Program is designed to help you feel comfortable, connected, and confident from the moment you arrive.

We don’t just want you to attend—we want you to feel like you belong here.

START HERE – FREE BEGINNER FRIDAY

Your weekend begins with our FREE Beginner Classes on Friday evening.

These classes are designed to introduce you to the core styles of the event in a fun, low-pressure environment:

  • West Coast Swing
  • Country Swing
  • Line Dance

These sessions are completely free and open to everyone, so bring a friend and jump in.

Following the classes, join us for our:

Beginner Welcome Information Session

A short, casual session where we will:

  • Walk you through how the weekend works
  • Explain workshops, competitions, and social dancing
  • Help you navigate the schedule with confidence
  • Introduce you to your Welcome Ambassadors

Friday evening following beginner classes

MEET YOUR AMBASSADORS

Our Welcome Ambassadors are here all weekend to answer questions, help you find your way, and make introductions.

Country Dance
Cindy Anderson

West Coast Swing
Corey & Emma Brillantes

Line Dance
Sean Buckley

You’ll see them in classes, around the ballroom, and at key Welcome Program touchpoints—don’t hesitate to say hello.

SATURDAY COFFEE CONNECTIONS 

Start your day with us.

Join your Ambassadors on Saturday morning for an informal meet-up in the hotel lobby:

  • Ask questions
  • Share how your night went
  • Get recommendations for classes and social dancing
  • Meet other dancers just like you

9:30 AM – Hotel Lobby (Saturday, April 10, 2026)

This is one of the best ways to quickly feel part of the community.

BUILD YOUR WEEKEND YOUR WAY

With multiple ballrooms, workshops, and social dancing happening all weekend, it can feel like a lot—we’re here to simplify it.

Your Welcome Team can help you:

  • Choose the right level of workshops
  • Understand the schedule and timing
  • Find beginner-friendly classes (look for Beginner Track sessions)
  • Get onto the dance floor with confidence

You’ll find beginner classes throughout the weekend, including dedicated sessions on Saturday and Sunday mornings and afternoons.

SUNDAY – WHAT’S NEXT?

We don’t want your dance journey to end when the event does.

On Sunday, we’ll help you take the next step by:

  • Connecting you with local classes and instructors
  • Highlighting places to keep dancing in Calgary
  • Answering “what do I do next?”

Our goal is simple: Help you leave with a clear path to keep growing and dancing.

YOU BELONG HERE

The Calgary Dance Stampede is known for its welcoming community, supportive environment, and incredible energy—and the Welcome Program is your gateway into it.

Come curious.
Leave confident.
And most importantly… have fun.