To truly understand Dominican Bachata, you must first understand Merengue. In this dynamic workshop, internationally acclaimed instructors Junior & Carolina explore the deep connection between the Dominican Republic's two most iconic social dances, revealing how the rhythm, movement, and spirit of Merengue provide the foundation for dancing Bachata with greater technique, authenticity and confidence.Discover the rhythmic parallels, shared body mechanics, weight transfer, partner connection, and musical interpretation that seamlessly carry over from one dance to the other. You'll learn how principles developed in Merengue naturally enhance your Bachata, improving your timing, flow, footwork, body movement, and overall dance quality. Rather than treating these dances as separate styles, you'll begin to see them as part of the same rich cultural language.By understanding where Bachata comes from and how it evolved alongside Merengue, you'll dance with greater musicality, authenticity, and the unmistakable flavour of the Dominican Republic.Date: Saturday, November 21stFrom 1:00 pm to 2:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Discover the authentic roots of Bachata in this beginner-friendly workshop focused on the fundamentals of Dominican Bachata. Naduska & Julio will guide you through the essential footwork, rhythm, timing, body movement, and partner connection that form the foundation of this vibrant social dance.Whether you're new to Bachata or looking to strengthen your technique, this class will provide a solid Dominican Bachata foundation, giving you the confidence and skills to enjoy the dance both in class and on the social dance floor.Date: Friday, November 20thFrom 5:00 to 6:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

PLEASE NOTE: this bootcamp has an optional performance component. Everyone purchasing the KELOKE VIP Full Pass can take the bootcamp, but for performance purposes, we will only accept 20 dancers on stage, first come first serve. Email us at info@vancuba.com to let us know if you would like to perform along Esmeralda.Take your Dominican Bachata to the next level in this high-energy ladies' intensive led by the talented Esmeralda, straight from the Dominican Republic. Designed for women who want to dance with greater confidence, precision, and authenticity, this workshop focuses on the styling, musicality, body movement, footwork, and attitude that make women's style Dominican Bachata so captivating.Expect a fun, challenging, and empowering experience as Esmeralda shares the technique, flavour, and feminine expression that have made her a sought-after instructor. Whether you're looking to refine your movement or add more confidence and personality to your dancing, you'll leave with practical skills you can immediately bring to the social dance floor.Let us know if you'd be interested in performing along Esmeralda on the Saturday night of the KELOKE. Dates: Friday November 20th and Saturday November 21stTime: see scheduleLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Experience the latest dance phenomenon to come out of Cuba! Reparto has taken the island by storm, becoming one of the most popular and energetic urban dance styles in Cuban nightlife. Characterized by its infectious rhythms, expressive movements, and street-inspired flavor, Reparto is redefining Cuba's social dance scene.In this exclusive workshop, internationally acclaimed Cuban artist Fredy Clan will teach you the foundations, signature moves, musicality, and attitude that make Reparto so unique. Whether you're new to the style or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll gain firsthand insight from one of the artists helping shape the movement itself. Come ready to move, sweat, and experience the energy of modern Cuba like never before! Date: Friday, November 20thFrom 7:00 pm to 8:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Experience one of Cuba's most iconic cultural expressions in this energetic Cuban Rumba workshop with internationally acclaimed artist Fredy Clan. Rooted in Afro-Cuban tradition, Rumba is the heartbeat of Cuban music and dance, known for its powerful rhythms, expressive body movement, and vibrant dialogue between dancers and percussion.In this workshop, Fredy Clan will introduce you to the essential movements, musicality, and cultural foundations of Cuban Rumba, while exploring the distinctive flavor, energy, and improvisation that have influenced generations of Cuban dancers. More than just a dance, Rumba is a celebration of rhythm, community, and self-expression.Whether you're a Salsa or Casino dancer looking to deepen your understanding of Cuban movement, or simply eager to experience one of Cuba's richest dance traditions, this class will give you authentic tools and inspiration to bring more rhythm, expression, and Afro-Cuban flavor to your dancing.Date: Saturday, November 21st From 9:00 am to 10:00 amLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Discover the richness and versatility of Cuban dance in this unique Cuban Casino Fusion workshop with internationally acclaimed Cuban artist Fredy Clan. Going beyond traditional Casino, this class explores how Cuba's iconic partner dance can be seamlessly blended with elements from the island's rich folkloric and traditional dance heritage, creating a style that is both authentic and refreshingly creative.Drawing from the rhythms, movements, and cultural influences that have shaped Cuban dance for generations, Fredy Clan will show you how to incorporate these elements naturally into your Casino while enhancing your musicality, body movement, and partner connection. Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of Cuban dance culture or add a new dimension to your social dancing, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn from one of Cuba's most celebrated artists.Date: Saturday, November 21stFrom 10 am to 11 amLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th AvenuePrerequisite: not suitable for Beginners

Bring more authenticity, rhythm, and personality to your dancing in this exciting Dominican Bachata Footwork & Body Movement Flavour workshop with the sensational Bachata duo Junior & Carolina. This class is dedicated to developing the dynamic footwork, natural body movement, musical interpretation, and unmistakable flavour that make Dominican Bachata so captivating.Junior & Carolina will break down the techniques that allow dancers to move with confidence, fluidity, and authentic Dominican style, while showing you how to connect your footwork seamlessly with expressive body movement. If you're looking to sharpen your technique or simply make your dancing feel more natural and engaging, this workshop will give you practical tools to transform the way you move on the social dance floor.Date: Saturday, November 21stFrom 11:00 am to 12:00 noonLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Elevate your confidence, elegance, and dance presence in this inspiring workshop led by the captivating Esmeralda, straight from the Dominican Republic. Designed for women of all levels, this class focuses on the feminine styling, body movement, sensuality, footwork, posture, and confidence that make Dominican Bachata so expressive and enjoyable.Drawing on the authentic flavor and culture of her homeland, Esmeralda will help you develop graceful movement, stronger technique, and the confidence to express yourself naturally on the dance floor. Whether you're dancing socially or performing, you'll leave this workshop with new styling ideas, greater body awareness, and the unmistakable energy and elegance of authentic Dominican Bachata.Date: Saturday, November 21stFrom 2:00 to 3:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Refine your style, confidence, and presence on the dance floor in this dynamic Dominican Bachata Men's Style workshop with internationally acclaimed Bachata instructor Alejandro "El Sueco." Designed for men who want to develop a stronger, more authentic dance identity, this class focuses on the styling, footwork, body movement, musicality, and confidence that define Dominican Bachata.Alejandro, known for his smooth Bachata style, will share practical techniques to help you move with greater precision, control, and charisma while staying true to the authentic spirit of Dominican Bachata. Whether you're looking to improve your social dancing or develop a more polished personal style, you'll leave this workshop with fresh inspiration, stronger technique, and tools you can immediately apply on the dance floor..Date: Saturday, November 21stFrom 2:00 to 3:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Bachata is much more than a collection of steps—it's a culture, a language, and a social tradition. In this immersive Dominican Bachata Masterclass, internationally acclaimed instructor Alejandro "El Sueco" takes you beyond technique to explore the heart and soul of the dance.Through a unique blend of movement, musicality, partner connection, history, and cultural context, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what makes Dominican Bachata so unique and timeless. Learn how the music shapes the dance, how social etiquette and connection are key to partner dance, and how the traditions of the Dominican Republic continue to influence the world.You'll explore the structure of Bachata music, learning to recognize its rhythmic sections, phrasing, and the unique role of instruments such as the requinto (lead guitar), segunda guitar, rhythm guitar, bass, bongos, güira, and vocals. Alejandro el Sueco will show you how each instrument influences movement and how to interpret different musical accents with your footwork, body movement, styling, and partner connection.This masterclass is for both, the experienced dancer and the enthusiastic social dancer eager to deepen their appreciation of the art form. Date: Saturday, November 21st From 3:00 pm to 4:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Discover the movement vocabulary that lies at the heart of Cuban dance in this dynamic Afro-Cuban Movement workshop with internationally acclaimed artist Fredy Clan. Rooted in the rich cultural traditions of Cuba, this class explores the fundamental principles that connect many Afro-Cuban dance forms, helping you move with greater authenticity, rhythm, and expression.Drawing inspiration from traditions such as Yoruba, Congo (Palo), Arará, Rumba (Guaguancó, Yambú and Columbia), and their influence on modern Cuban social dances, you'll develop essential techniques including grounded posture, body isolation, torso articulation, hip movement, weight transfer, rhythmic coordination, and expressive use of the arms and upper body. Fredy Clan will also explore the relationship between movement and percussion, teaching you how to embody the music rather than simply dance to it.This workshop will give you a deeper understanding of the Afro-Cuban foundations that continue to shape Cuban dance today. Expect an energetic, culturally rich experience that will improve your body awareness, musicality, and confidence while connecting you to one of the world's most influential dance traditions.Date: Sunday November 22ndTime: 11:00 to 12:00 noonLocation: UOC 154 East 10th Ave.

Discover the perfect balance between sophistication and raw Dominican flavor in this exciting workshop with internationally acclaimed instructors Junior & Carolina. Learn how to blend elegant technique, clean lines, and refined partner connection with the attitude, swagger, and irresistible charisma that define the social dance floors of the Dominican Republic.This class is all about dancing with confidence, personality, and authenticity. Explore sexy body movement, playful musical interpretation, flavorful footwork, and the subtle flirtation that gives Dominican Bachata its unmistakable charm. You'll learn how to move with style without losing the natural, carefree essence of the streets—creating a dance that is polished yet spontaneous, elegant yet bold.If you've ever wanted your Bachata to look smooth, feel authentic, and radiate confidence, this workshop will show you how to bring together the best of both worlds: the elegance of the ballroom with the heat, flavor, and swagger of the Dominican streets.Date: Sunday, November 22nd From 12 noon to 1:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

It's time to rethink the festival experience!Instead of simply taking classes and hoping everything clicks later, we want to help you make real, measurable progress throughout the weekend. That's why we've dedicated this social dance session to mentored dancing—a unique opportunity to put into practice everything you've learned during Friday's and Saturday's workshops while it's still fresh.Dance with your instructors or our experienced dancers, ask questions, receive personalized feedback, and refine your technique in real time. This is your chance to bridge the gap between the classroom and the social dance floor, building confidence one dance at a time.Throughout the session, we'll be playing mostly Bachata, with a selection of Cuban Timba so you can practice all the concepts you've learned so far. Don't be shy—invite the teachers for a dance! They're here to help, offer guidance, and support you on your journey to becoming a better dancer.Date: Sunday November 22ndFrom 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm Location: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

We're closing the KELOKE Vancouver Bachata Festival the only way we know how—rico y sabroso! Join Dominican instructor Esmeralda for a vibrant celebration of the flavor, joy, and irresistible spirit that make Dominican Bachata so unique.In this workshop, you'll explore the playful essence of the dance through colourful footwork, expressive hip movement, flirtation, sass, and effortless musical interpretation. Learn how to move with the relaxed confidence and infectious energy that define social dancing in the Caribbean, where Bachata is as much about connecting with people as it is about connecting with the music.Expect laughter, personality, and plenty of tropical flavor as Esmeralda shares the movement, attitude, and cultural spirit of her homeland. It's the perfect finale to an unforgettable weekend—a chance to let go, dance freely, celebrate everything you've learned, and leave the festival with a little more Caribbean sunshine in your dancing.Date: Sunday, November 22nd From 3:00 pm to 4:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

No dance captures the joy, energy, and heartbeat of the Dominican Republic quite like Merengue. Join Alejandro "El Sueco" for a high-octane celebration of the Dominican Republic's national dance as we bring the KELOKE Vancouver Bachata Festival to a spectacular close.More than just learning steps, this workshop is an immersion into the history, culture, and infectious spirit of Merengue. Explore its unmistakable rhythms, playful partner connection, dynamic footwork, body movement, and the musical traditions that have made it a symbol of Dominican identity for generations. Alejandro will share the cultural roots of the dance while helping you develop the technique, confidence, and joyful expression that make Merengue so exhilarating on the social dance floor.Expect high energy, nonstop movement, contagious smiles, and an atmosphere that feels like a street celebration in Santo Domingo. This workshop is the perfect way to celebrate an unforgettable weekend—full of music, culture, laughter, and the vibrant Caribbean spirit that defines the KELOKE Vancouver Bachata Festival.Date: Sunday, November 22nd From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pmLocation: Ukrainian Hall at 154 East 10th Avenue

Kick off an unforgettable weekend of music, dance, and Caribbean culture at the KELOKE Vancouver Bachata Festival Welcome Party! Join us on Friday, November 20, 2026, for an authentic Dominican celebration where you'll dance the night away to the best Bachata, Merengue, Salsa, Timba, and Caribbean rhythms. Meet our international instructors, connect with dancers from across the region, and experience the warmth, energy, and vibrant spirit of the Caribbean. Don't miss the first-ever Vancouver appearance of internationally acclaimed Cuban entertainer Fredy Clan, whose high-energy animación will keep the dance floor alive all night long. Whether you're attending the festival or simply looking for an incredible Latin dance party, this is the perfect way to start the weekend!📅 Date: Friday, November 20, 2026📍 Venue: U.O.C. 154 East 10th Avenue, Vancouver, V5T 1Z4🕘 Doors Open: 9:00 PM💃 Complimentary Merengue Lesson: Junior & Carolina🌴 Special Performance: Larimar Dance Group (Dominican Folkloric Dance)🎤 Special Guest: Cuban-style Animación by international artist Fredy Clan(first time in Vancouver!)🎧 Music: 2 DJs spinning Bachata, Merengue, Salsa, Timba & more🤝 Meet & Dance: Meet the festival instructors and guest artists🍹 Caribbean Bar: Mojitos, Cuba Libres, Brugal Rum & more tropical favourites🇩🇴 Dress Code: Wear the colours of the Dominican Republic flag (red, white & blue)🎟️ Admission: $25 Advance • $30 at the Door

¡A Bailar! Get ready for the ultimate Caribbean celebration as Cuba and the Dominican Republic come together for one unforgettable night at Fiesta Cubanicana! Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms, infectious energy, and colourful culture of two islands that have shaped Latin music and dance around the world. Dance to an irresistible mix of Bachata, Timba, Merengue, Salsa, Son, Dembow, Reparto, and more. Enjoy spectacular performances by Junior & Carolina, Esmeralda & Sueco, and experience the electrifying Cuban-style animación of Fredy Clan in his first-ever appearance in Vancouver. Fiesta Cubanicana promises tropical vibes, incredible music, and an atmosphere that will keep you dancing until the very last song.📅 Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026📍 Venue: 154 East 10th Avenue, Vancouver🕗 Doors Open: 8:00 PM🔥 Complimentary Dembow Lesson: Start the night with the hottest urban rhythm from the Dominican Republic!✨ Performances:• 💃 Junior & Carolina• 💃 Esmeralda & Alejandro "El Sueco"🎤 Special Guest: Cuban-style Animación by international artist Fredy Clan(first time in Vancouver!)🎧 Music: 2 DJs spinning Bachata, Timba, Salsa, Son, Merengue, Dembow & more🍹 Caribbean Bar: Mojitos, Cuba Libres, Brugal Rum & other tropical favourites🌺 Dress Code: Wear your brightest tropical colours!🎟️ Admission: $25 Advance • $30 at the Door

There's no better way to end an incredible weekend than by sharing one last dance with friends, old and new. Hasta la Vista is the farewell social of the KELOKE Vancouver Bachata Festival—a relaxed and welcoming gathering where Bachata keeps playing, and the memories of an unforgettable weekend are celebrated together. Enjoy an evening of social dancing, laughter, and authentic Spanish Caribbean hospitality while sampling traditional dishes. Join us one last time to celebrate the friendships, music, and community that make KELOKE so special. Until next time... ¡Hasta la vista! ❤️🇩🇴🇨🇺📅 Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026📍 Venue: 154 East 10th Avenue, Vancouver🕠 Time: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM💃 Social Dancing: Bachata, Merengue, Salsa, Timba & Caribbean favourites🍽️ Traditional Food: We will be sharing some authentic Spanish Caribbean dishes to close out the festival together (please, note that food is not for sale, nor is included in the admission price)🤝 Celebrate Together: One last chance to dance, connect, and say goodbye to your new dance family🎟️ Admission: $20