What is a Salsa Congress?
A Salsa Congress is a large-scale, multi-day event dedicated to salsa and other Latin dances, typically including dance workshops, performances, social dancing, and sometimes competitions. Originating in Puerto Rico in 1997, the format quickly became popular worldwide, and today there are multiple congresses going on every week of the year in cities across North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
Although still commonly used, the phrase “salsa congress” has gradually become less popular in favor of “salsa festival.” Other interchangeable terms include “salsa dance expos,” “salsa conventions,” and “salsa weekenders.”
History of Salsa Congresses
Puerto Rico Salsa Congress
The world’s first salsa congress was held in Puerto Rico in 1997, organized by Eli Irizarry. The inaugural event drew 375 participants from 19 countries. The congress grew steadily: in 1998, attendance rose to 550 dancers from 23 countries, featuring performances and workshops by 32 salsa companies.
By 1999, participation increased to 800 dancers from 34 countries, with approximately 56 salsa groups involved. In 2002, the Puerto Rico Salsa Congress hosted the first World Salsa Open, which soon grew to become one of the largest international salsa competitions.
Congreso Mundial de la Salsa
Between 1999 and 2002, All Stars Entertainment and Bacardí organized an international salsa tour called “Congreso Mundial de la Salsa.” This tour included events in cities across North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia, such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Valencia, London, Milan, Munich, Tokyo, Mumbai, Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Panama City, Guayaquil, Caracas, and Sydney, culminating annually with a significant event in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Los Angeles Salsa Congress
Albert Torres organized the first US-based salsa congress in Los Angeles in 1999. Initially named the “West Coast Salsa Congress,” it was later renamed “LA Salsa Congress” as additional cities along the West Coast began hosting similar events.
The LA Salsa Congress, held annually in May, became one of the largest salsa gatherings worldwide. In 2013, the event was renamed “LA Salsa Fest,” and it concluded in 2019 after 20 years, following Torres’s passing.
What to Expect at a Salsa Congress
Salsa congresses offer a vibrant and immersive experience for both seasoned dancers and beginners. Attendees can expect numerous dance workshops led by renowned instructors, catering to all skill levels, from absolute beginners to advanced dancers looking to refine their techniques. Professional dancers from around the world showcase spectacular performances, highlighting diverse salsa styles such as New York-style, Cuban, Colombian, and LA-style salsa.
Social dancing is a central part of the event, providing attendees an opportunity to practice new moves, dance with people from different cultures, and enjoy live music from acclaimed salsa bands and DJs. Many congresses also host exciting dance competitions, offering dancers the chance to showcase their talents and compete internationally.
Beyond dancing, congresses often feature networking opportunities, vendor markets selling dance attire and music, panel discussions, and informal gatherings. Salsa congresses foster community-building, friendship, and cultural exchange, making them a unique and enriching experience for attendees.
