Why Convention?
An annual LGBTBQ+ square dance convention has been held annually since the first convention was held in Seattle, Washington, 1984. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, conventions were held virtually—via Zoom—in 2020 and 2021. The convention is typically held for three-to-four days over a long holiday weekend like Memorial Day (US) or Independence Day (US), or even Easter. It is often referred to as a “family reunion” where square dancers come from across the globe to dance and socialize in a safe environment.
Convention offers opportunities to experienced as well as newly graduated dancers; these opportunities foster confidence in dancing, welcoming new people into the activity, and reconnecting with friends from years ago.
What To Expect
Many traditions have been embraced over the four decades of conventions. You can expect to encounter some of these exciting activities:
- Bathing Beauties
- Commemorative Pin
- Contra dancing
- Country-western dancing
- Dinner banquet
- Fun Badge Tour
- GCA Caller School
- Golden Boot Award
- Grand March
- Group/Club Photos
- Honky Tonk Queen Contest ( and many “Old Queens” )
- Hospitality Lounges
- Hunky Trunks Contest
- Informational meetings
- LOTS of dancing
- Medallion Dancer presentations
- Memorial Panels
- Moonshine
- Opening Ceremony
- Pre- and Post-convention Tours
- Specialty tips (bear, kilt, leather, POC, women)
- Trail-in dance
- Trail-out dance
- Yellow Rocks for days and days
A very comprehensive “Guide to IAGSDC Convention” can be found here.
