Guest Post by Kareem Aly, Latin Sparks co-founder.
Discover your inner dancer
We all know our best dance moves shine when we’re brushing our teeth and wiping the fog off the bathroom mirror. But when it comes to dancing in public… well, that’s another story. We get into our heads. We feel shy and self-conscious, and would be lucky just to keep a basic rhythm.
But, there are those rare moments when you can’t help but give in to that deep desire to just let go and dance. And, ironically enough, that’s usually when we pull off our best moves.
Photo courtesy of Latin Sparks.
That sweet spot, that feeling of freedom, is what the Latin Sparks Festival is all about. It’s a space with no judgement, no labels, and no expectations. Because of that, what started as a neighbourhood street party with only a few dozen people is now a 4-day festival that attracts thousands of guests —dancing pros and amateurs alike—from across Canada and the US.
“What started as a neighbourhood street party with only a few dozen people is now a 4-day festival that attracts thousands of guests.”
From May 30th to June 2nd, Ottawa will be transformed into the streets of Havana for Canada’s favourite Latin festival. The main event on Saturday, June 1st is an outdoor block party where you can enjoy a night of dancing under the stars like no one is watching. The event includes live music, DJs, international performers, beginner dance classes, food trucks and outdoor bars (since we all need some liquid courage from time to time). In other words, you’ll have all the necessary ingredients to release that inner-dancer you never knew existed.
What started as a neighbourhood party with only a few dozen people is now a 4-day festival attracting thousands of dancers: http://bit.ly/2Hw4M5b
Posted by Apt613 on Thursday, May 23, 2019
Latin Sparks Festival also hosts a variety of other events throughout the weekend including an Ottawa River boat cruise party, dance workshops ranging from beginner to advanced, and a giant taco brunch to refuel your body after three days of dancing.
Going into its eighth year, Latin Sparks is expected to attract more than 6,000 people of all ages, backgrounds and dance abilities. There is no experience or partner needed. Just a love for dance and a wee bit of adventurism.
Schedule
Thursday May 30th to Sunday June 2nd, 2019
- Dance Social – Thu, May 30th 7pm–1am at Queen Street Fare
- Boat Party – Fri, May 31st 8:30pm–1am at Jacques-Cartier Dock
- Dance Bootcamp – Sat, June 1st 12pm–4PM at Studio X
- Block Party – Sat, June 1st 6pm–2am at Albert Island
- Hangover Brunch – Sun, June 2nd 11am–3pm at TacoLot
Full festival passes cost $74.99–89.99 online. Visit latinsparks.ca for more info and single ticket prices. Discounted group rates are available. Follow @latinsparksfestival on social media and RSVP to the party on Facebook.
