In Search of Tango Bliss: the art of finding perfect events

It never gets old. That gentle hush that falls over the room as hundreds of arms embrace, the voices die down and the music takes over. Especially when it’s La Cumparsita, especially when it’s the last day of the marathon.

Big tango events are a special kind of experience. Part family reunion, part test of endurance, part voluntary embrace of physical rigor, big tango events immerse us in a unique world where the shared bliss of dance intertwines with the deliberate challenge of embracing the struggle on the dance floor.

Choosing the right tango event can be exciting and/or a bit confusing. Here are my top 5 tips to help you find the best tango experiences in 2024:

1. Use Social Media: Check out Facebook and Instagram for updates on tango events. Follow tango pages and groups to stay in the know.

2. Join Tango Communities: Get involved in online and offline tango groups. Tango websites and forums can give you info about events in different places.

3. Listen to Others: Talk to dancers who've been to events. Their suggestions can be super helpful.

4. Think About Important Stuff: Consider things like event size, gender balance, venue, and music. These things affect how much you enjoy the tango event.

5. Do Your Own Thing: Your tango journey is yours. You won’t be able to make ALL of the events. Instead of worrying about missing out, focus on finding events that make you happy.

For a more thorough discussion on how to find the your next tango event, check out my Tango Banter Episode: “How to find the BEST tango events in 2024.”