The BDF International Congress is a hallmark of the Open British Dance Festival, celebrated at the iconic Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Its remarkable history and the presence of esteemed lecturers create an unparalleled experience. This is an event that you absolutely cannot afford to miss; make sure to join us at the BDF International Congress.
The BDF invites you to join us under the inspiring theme of Striking Perfection, with the exciting opportunity for all full members of the BDF who have maintained consecutive membership for two years to attend at no cost; for more information on ticket details and application procedures, please refer to the provided ticket information below.
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THE HISTORY OF THE BDF INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS
+ THE PAST - THE PRESENT - THE FUTURE
The history of the BDF International congress is long and illustrious. From it’s inception many years ago till present day, the best of the best in our Dance Industry have given us their wisdom and advice. The names that have graced our congress are testament to the quality of the lectures that you can expect!
HISTORY
The BDF International Congress is organised by the BDF every other year, in co-operation with the WDC/BDC. This used to be known as the World Congress and was started in the early 50’s.
The history of the BDF International congress is long and illustrious. From it’s inception many years ago till present day, the best of the best in our Dance Industry have given us their wisdom and advice.
The names and faces of the most revered and famous of dancers, teachers & coaches throughout these years has given the International Congress the title of certainly one of the best Congresses in the dance calendar.
The International Congress has proved to be an inspiration to many dancers & all those who attend and it is deemed an honour to be asked to take part.
The BDF has it’s own YouTube channel were you can watch some of these lectures.
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2018 International Congress Album2016 International Congress Album2012 International Congress Album |
EVENT
GUIDE
THE BDF INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS EVENT GUIDE
SATURDAY 24TH & SUNDAY 25TH MAY 2025
VENUE
The Spanish Hall, Winter Gardens, Blackpool.
Doors open at 9:30am
THE INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS 2025 is FREE for all FULL MEMBERS with 2 years CONSECUTIVE years of membership
+ TICKET INFORMATION
TICKET PRICES
Tickets can be purchased online or at the door on the day. £10.00 Early Bird Discount up until 18/05/2025
| 2 DAY TICKET | £130.00 |
| 1 DAY TICKET | £80.00 |
| MORNING SESSION ONLY | £60.00 |
| AFTERNOON SESSION ONLY | £60.00 |
FREE MEMBERSHIP ONLY TICKETS:
THE INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS 2025 IS FREE FOR ALL FULL MEMBERS OF THE BDF WITH 2 CONSECUTIVE YEARS OF MEMBERSHIP.
Membership tickets can be accessed (with the password sent to you) here:
If you have not received an email informing you of your password to access Member Only tickets (if eligible), please email Pamela McGill with your membership name & number. Should you qualify for FREE MEMBERSHIP ENTRY, a personal password will be sent to you which will give you access to a MEMBER ONLY ticket.
PAMELA MCGILL TICKET ENQUIRIES
+ TIMETABLE & LECTURERS
To be announced
+ PHOTOGRAPHY PERMISSION
Please note: No professional photographers are allowed to take photos without written permission by the BDF
Please email: Photography Permission Admin
+ TRAVEL DETAILS
ADDRESS
The Spanish Hall, Winter Gardens, Blackpool, FY1 1HL.
BY CAR
From the M55 exit at junction 4, follow A583 into central Blackpool or for sat nav – postcode FY1 1HW
Central Blackpool does have one-way systems and pedestrianised areas. You may wish to use one of the large, well sign-posted tourist car-parks close to the Promenade or there are 2 car-parks closer to the Winter Gardens.
PARKING
A multi-storey facility is available within the Houndshill Shopping Centre. This is approx 150m from the Coronation Street entrance (lift access to the main areas of the Winter Gardens building) or approx. 300m from the Church Street entrance (ground level access to the main building)- the postcode of this car-park is FY1 4NY. This is a pay-on-return car-park.
Open air, ground level parking is also available on the corner of Adelaide Street and Alfred Street approx 200m from the Church Street entrance – the postcode of this car-park is FY1 4LA. This is a pay-&-display car-park.
Limited metered street-parking is also available close-by. St Johns Square is a shared use space and open to pedestrians only for long-periods. The Winter Gardens does not have on-site public parking.
A taxi rank is on Church Street, just a few minutes walk from the entrance to the building. Taxis may also drop off outside both entrances to the Winter Gardens subject to traffic restrictions.
For all enquiries please contact info@wintergardensblackpool.co.uk or telephone 01253 625252
BY RAIL
Blackpool North Station is approximately 10 minutes walk from the Winter Gardens.
+ FOOD & DRINK
There are many places to eat and drink within the Winter Gardens and on the high street.
Patrons please be reminded not to bring their own food and drink to the event.
Register for Free as a Student (under 16)
Full Membership for all Amateur and Professional Dancers/Competitors, Adjudicators,Teachers and Individuals with a interest in Competitive Dancing
Affiliate Membership for Associations/ Organisations and Companies etc.
