Toronto is turning up the Latin rhythm this Thanksgiving long weekend as the 22nd annual Canada Salsa & Bachata Congress takes over the Fairmont Royal York Hotel from October 7 to 12.

One of North America’s largest and longest-running Latin dance gatherings, the event brings together dancers, instructors and performers from around the world for six days of salsa, bachata, competitions, workshops and late-night parties.

And this year’s lineup is massive.

Organizers are bringing together 60 international artists, 70 dance companies, 45 instructors and 10 DJs, with participants arriving from across Canada, Latin America, the United States and Europe. 

Among the featured performers are Pipe & Katherine from Colombia, Tito & Tamara from Puerto Rico, Jorge & Indira from Cuba, and Victor & Karen from Mexico, alongside some of Canada’s top Latin dance talent. 

The weekend’s biggest attractions include the Canadian Salsa & Bachata Championships, international performance showcases and dance parties running until 4 a.m. across three ballrooms.

And you don’t need to be an experienced dancer to join the fun.

The congress also offers beginner bootcamps, workshops for different skill levels and opportunities to learn directly from internationally recognized instructors. Whether you’ve been dancing for years or have always wanted to give salsa or bachata a try, there’s something for everyone. 

Founded by Jennifer Aucoin, the Canada Salsa & Bachata Congress has spent more than two decades helping grow Toronto’s Latin dance community and connecting local talent with performers from around the world.

With October marking Latin American Heritage Month in Canada, the timing couldn’t be better.

The Canada Salsa & Bachata Congress runs through Monday, October 12, at the Fairmont Royal York, located at 100 Front Street West in downtown Toronto.

For tickets, the full schedule and event information, visit canadasalsacongress.com