Three days of unforgettable parties, inspiring workshops, live music, and an international lineup of artists. Join dancers from all over Europe in the heart of Arnhem (The Netherlands) for a weekend full of energy, connection, and community.
Every year, Watapana Weekend brings something extra special to the stage: live Latin music on Saturday night.
Nothing matches the energy of dancing to music performed right in front of you. Live music turns the dance floor into a concert, and the concert into a party you’ll never forget.
For the 2026 edition, we’re once again preparing a Saturday night of live salsa music on stage in Musis Sacrum!
Learn, grow, and get inspired with world-class instructors from around the globe. With multiple workshop areas and plenty of space, Watapana Weekend offers over 30 workshops in salsa, and bachata for every level of dancer.
From technique and styling to musicality and partnerwork, our workshops are designed to take your dancing to the next level.
Experience the most in-demand shows from world-class performers throughout the entire weekend.
From breathtaking choreographies to fresh new acts, the stage at Musis Sacrum transforms every show into a celebration of artistry, passion, and inspiration.
Watapana Weekend brings together an international lineup of instructors, performers, DJs, and musicians. We are counting more than 50 artists from across Europe and beyond. From world-class teachers leading inspiring workshops, to DJs keeping the dance floors alive, to performers delivering unforgettable shows, every artist contributes to the unique vibe that makes this festival special. Whether you come to learn, dance, or simply be inspired, our artists will share their passion, creativity, and energy with you all weekend long.
Yes! We welcome everyone. Our workshops are designed for all levels — from beginners to very experienced dancers. With world-class instructors and a friendly community, you’ll feel at home no matter your level.
Yes. Bachata is part of our weekend. You’ll find a dedicated bachata area at the evening parties, workshops throughout the weekend, and mixed salsa & bachata during social dancing.
Definitely. We provide a beginner area with salsa and bachata workshops tailored for first steps. You can follow beginner-level classes all day.
We want you to enjoy the entire weekend with energy — not just one late night. By closing at 01:30, you can recharge for workshops the next day. We also follow city policy for event hours.
Yes, Musis Sacrum is located in the city centre of Arnhem. Hotels are within 10 minutes walking, and there are plenty of Airbnb options nearby.
Our schedule shows the style and level of each workshop (On1, On2, Cuban, Dominican bachata, styling, etc.) so you can choose what fits you best.
Yes, we balance solo and partnerwork workshops. Partnerwork is always part of the program, but we also offer solo classes for styling, body movement, and musicality.
We encourage role rotation, and our instructors adapt workshops to keep everyone engaged. In general partners rotate often, so everyone dances.
In the past we used to put all the shows on Friday to inspire our visitors and help them choose their weekend workshops. From our 2026 edition on we will spread our shows over 3 days, so each showcase will have a maximum of 6 shows.
Shows are an important part of the Watapana vibe, it offers a stage to our local talents where they can display their art and reach a greater audience than they are used to.
Yes, the live music is for dancing! You can also enjoy watching, but the floor is open.
We are exploring more food and drink options during parties and socials.
Up until now most of our visitors go to the city after the party to have a midnight snack. The closest pizzeria is 2 minutes walking from the venue!
Yes, there are lounge areas and seating spaces. We know breaks are important, and we’re working on making these areas even more comfortable.
Follow the signs in the venue!
Because we are still growing we didn’t have Sunday parties up until the 2025 edition.
We did promote other events as an option for after-party.
From 2026 on we will have a closing weekend day-time social (in the same venue) which will be included in the full pass. Stay tuned for more information.
We update our website and Instagram with the latest information. During the weekend, schedules are available online, on posters inside the venue, and in flyers.
From our 2026 edition on, we recommend you to check our website since we have a dedicated Watapana Weekend website.
No, we believe Dutch artists deserve just as much stage time. Our lineup always includes top talent from the Netherlands alongside international guests.
Our mission is to make Watapana Weekend an event where all the in-demand artists are booked and can share their art with you!
Yes! We offer Watapana merch like shirts, hoodies, and bags. Sometimes with early bird discounts before the festival.
