118 Days to Go: The Road to Emerald Ball 2026 Officially Begins

118 Days to Go: The Countdown to Emerald Ball 2026 Officially Begins

Los Angeles, CA — January 1, 2026

As the world rings in the New Year, the ballroom dance community is setting its sights on a different milestone: the 118-day countdown to the 2026 Emerald Ball Dancesport Championships.

Widely regarded as one of the three largest and most prestigious dancesport competitions in the United States, the Emerald Ball returns to the Hilton Los Angeles Airport from April 28th through May 3rd, 2026.

A Legacy of Excellence

With a history spanning over five decades, the Emerald Ball continues to set the standard for competitive ballroom dance. Known for its world-class judging panels and record-breaking entry numbers, the event attracts nearly 1,700 competitors annually—ranging from youth "Solo Stars" to the world’s most elite professionals.

What to Expect in 2026

The Emerald Ball Dance Camp: Specialized workshops (May 1–3) led by industry icons.
The Emerald City Nightclub: A themed "Nightclub Night" featuring the Wickedly Spectacular Showcase.
Giving Back: A commitment to donate $5 to the Dance Vision Foundation for every entry, targeting a $50,000 goal.
Championship Stakes: Serving as the grand finale for the Dance Vision Circuit and the California Gold Rush Series.

“The Emerald Ball is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of artistry and community. As we start this 118-day countdown, we look forward to seeing the hard work of dancers from around the globe culminate on our floor.”

Join Us on the Floor

Official registration for the 2026 championships is now open. Competitors are encouraged to secure their entries and hotel blocks early, as the event traditionally reaches capacity months in advance.