Pre-Party
Beginner Level
The foundation — what every new dancer needs to know
A social gathering or warm-up session before the main event — where the night begins and the social energy starts building.
Beginner focus
Attend the pre-party. It's less intimidating than the main event, the music is usually calmer, and people are more approachable because everyone is still warming up. It's the ideal low-pressure environment to have your first dances, orient yourself to the venue, and meet other attendees. You'll walk into the main event the next day already feeling like you belong.
Tips
- •The pre-party is the best time to find your congress buddy — someone at a similar level who you can navigate the event with.
- •Dress comfortably for the pre-party. Save your best outfit for the main event socials.
- •If a congress has a pre-party class or warm-up session, take it. Moving your body before the night loosens you up physically and socially.
Common mistakes
- •Skipping the pre-party and arriving at the main event cold, without any social warmup
- •Going too hard at the pre-party and being exhausted for the main event
- •Treating the pre-party as unimportant — it's often where the best connections begin
Practice drill
For your next event with a pre-party, set a goal: arrive within the first hour, dance with at least three people, and have a conversation with someone you've never met. Note how this changes your experience at the main event compared to arriving cold.