Dancing // Ballroom Gala
The Formal Ball
Waltz like the ethereal fae, foxtrot like Fred Astaire, and bachata like Bayonetta at a whimsical gala built for brand-new and experienced dancers alike.
Friday, September 4
Time TBD
No partner required
Find your place in the flow
Spot Dances
Center floor
Traveling lane
Flow ↺
Stay aware of the dancers around you
Ball Invitation // All Dancers Welcome
An Enchanted Evening Awaits
Friday, September 4
Every Experience Level
A Ballroom Mix
Dance Hosts Available
Daytime Training // Two Sessions
Ballroom Gala Crash Courses
Watch the schedule for times
Ballroom Gala Crash Course A
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Location
- Movement Room // A Pod 110
No partner required
Ballroom Gala Crash Course B
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Location
- Movement Room // A Pod 110
No partner required
Before Entry // Prepare to Dance
General Rules and Recommendations
Travel light. Take breaks. Look after yourself.
Store bags and personal items before arrival, then use the hallway whenever you need water or rest.
Keep Track of Your Items
Matsuricon is not responsible for personal items or props that are left behind or misplaced.
Arrive Fresh
Come to the ball clean, wearing deodorant, and prepared with mints for a comfortable shared space.
Use Hallway Water Fountains
GCCC rules do not allow water bottles inside the formal hall. Water fountains are available in the hallway outside the event.
Leave Bags Elsewhere
Bags are not permitted in the formal hall. Store them safely in your hotel room, vehicle, or another appropriate location before dancing.
Rest When Needed
Listen to your body, step off the floor when you need a break, and return when you are ready.
Have Fun
Make room for joy, connection, and an enchanted evening with the Matsuricon dance community.
Partner Protocol // Consent + Communication
Etiquette and Tips for More Dances
No One Owes Anyone a Dance
- Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer often.
- Ask politely for a dance and walk your partner onto the dance floor.
- After each dance, thank your partner and walk with them to the edge of the floor.
- Anyone may decline a dance. Accept a no graciously and move on—no one owes anyone else a dance.
- Communicate with your partner and speak up if something hurts or feels uncomfortable.
- Pay attention to your partner. If they appear uncomfortable, stop what you are doing.
- If you want a dance, ask proactively or stand at the edge of the floor where others can see that you are ready.
- Leaders should dance to their partner's ability and never force a move. If a move fails three times, let it go.
- Only teach on the dance floor when your partner asks for instruction.
- If you step on or bump into someone, apologize.
- Stay aware of your surroundings; fairy wings and other large accessories can strike nearby dancers.
Shared Space // Dance Ready
Clean Hands, Clear Communication
Hand hygiene, partner awareness, and direct communication help everyone enjoy more comfortable dances.
Dress Protocol // Formal + Floor Safe
Recommended Formalwear
Dress for the occasion—and for movement.
Attendees may wear clothing that represents their gender identity or any identity on or off the spectrum. Matsuricon staff may ask guests to change clothing that does not follow policy.
Formal Attire
- Formal cosplay or costumes
- Neckties, bow ties, cravats, or bolos worn around the neck
- Button-up shirts
- Cocktail dresses
- Kimono or cheongsam
- Formal period clothing, including Renaissance or medieval attire
- Suits or tuxedos
- Dress uniforms
- Kilts with an appropriate shirt and accessories
- Khakis, slacks, or suit pants
- Fursuits only with a handler present at all times
Shorts or dancer underwear are highly recommended beneath skirts and kilts.
Dance-Friendly Footwear
- Dress shoes
- Ballroom dance shoes
- Formal or period boots
- Heels
- Sturdy dress sandals with secure straps
Secure shoes stay on the floor
Prohibited Attire
- Bags
- T-shirts
- Jeans
- Shorts
- Sweatpants
- Shredded clothing or clothing with holes
- Sneakers
- Flip-flops or casual sandals
- Clothing that drags on the floor, including floor-length dresses, trains, and capes
- Props
- Casual jackets, including denim jackets and sweatshirts
- Military uniforms
- Combat boots
- Full-face masks, masquerade masks, or anything that restricts vision
GCCC rules prohibit masks that restrict vision. Dim ballroom lighting makes clear sight especially important.
Floor Traffic // Rules of the Road
Share the Dance Floor Safely
Center for spot dances. Outside lane for travel.
Traveling dances always move counter-clockwise. Stay out of corners and keep testing or teaching moves off the active floor.
Spot Dances
- Cha-cha
- Rumba
- Swing dances
- Bolero
- Mambo
- Salsa
- Bachata
- Zouk
- Hustle
- Nightclub two-step
Traveling Dances
- Waltz
- Tango
- Foxtrot
- Viennese waltz
- Quickstep
- Country two-step
- Samba
Finale // Dance the Night Away