a one of a kind, immersive studio experience

Nationals OVERVIEW

Close out the end of your season by opening more doors. Embody Nationals isn’t just another dance convention and competition — it is a revolutionary dance experience designed to strengthen your studio culture.

Embody Nationals takes your dancers, teachers, and parents on a studio-wide journey. Through carefully crafted programming, including our Gala Performance, Choreography Challenge, VIP Industry Opportunities, Team Bonding Night, Dance(rs) Party, and Teachers & Parents Retreats, our Nationals goal is simple: send studios home with more knowledge, more opportunity, more joy, and a deeper sense of connection.

While dancers are immersed in their classes, teachers and parents dive into their own parallel journeys in The Teachers’ Retreat and Parents’ Retreat. This synchronized education, community-building, and pure FUN creates a powerful studio support system where everyone speaks the same language and shares the same vision.

EVENT LOGISTICS

We’re thrilled to host Embody Nationals at Kalahari Resorts in Poconos, Pennsylvania — a stunning, all-under-one-roof destination that perfectly blends comfort, luxury, and fun. Kalahari offers spacious accommodations, extensive dining options, and the largest indoor waterpark in America, making it the ideal setting for our immersive Nationals experience. The natural beauty of the Poconos combined with the resort's amenities creates an unforgettable experience for dancers and families alike.

Location: Kalahari Resorts, Poconos, PA
Dates: June 22–26, 2026
Registration Deadline: May 15, 2026
Registration Opens: February 1, 2026
Early Rate Deadline: April 23, 2026
Gala Tickets On Sale: NOW! Click here to purchase tickets!
Scholarship Registration Closes: June 15, 2026
Financial Aid: Available through May 1, 2026

Embody Nationals Info Deck 2026 (8.5 x 2.25 in) (1).jpg

BOOK A ROOM

Nationals Schedule

*Schedule is tentative and subject to change

teacher & parent retreats

Teacher Retreat:

10 tailored sessions designed for dance educators
Deep-dive into studio business strategies and culture building
Expert-led sessions on anatomy, teaching methodologies and tools for the 2026 dance teacher
Exclusive mindset coaching and mental health support to enhance teaching impact and better support personal needs
Movement classes exclusively for teachers
Networking opportunities with industry leaders
VIP Gala ticket with dinner and reserved seating

Parent Retreat:

10 tailored sessions designed for dance parents
Practical tools for supporting your dancer's journey — from managing comparison to social media safety
Movement classes focused on both mind and body, including dance, meditation and yoga
Mindset coaching designed to help parents better support their dancers and themselves
Small group coaching sessions and support network meetings
VIP Gala ticket with dinner and reserved seating

the Gala

The Embody Gala is the signature event of the season — an immersive evening that brings our community together for an unforgettable celebration of artistry, achievement, and connection. Step onto the Blue Carpet and into a night filled with electrifying performances, special guest appearances, awards dinner, and a high-energy closing show spotlighting the boldest stories and creative collaborations from Embody.

Tickets are on sale now, which include experience tiers so you can choose your perfect Gala night. Whether you’re looking for an exclusive VIP table with premium seating, and dining, or want to hop into general admission, there’s a spot for everyone to be part of the magic.

Gala Awards

Ambassador of the Year
Choreographer of the Year
Elect of the Year
Embody Studio of the Year
Emerging Artist Honors
Industry and College Scholarships
Student Choreography Award
Teacher of the Year
The Radiate Award
Whole Mover of the Year

PURCHASE GALA TICKETS

Highlights

IGNITE Kickoff: High-energy launch to set the tone of the week.
Connection Lounge: Grounding space for reflection and creative recharge.
Embody Artist Access: Expanding professional pathways for dancers with an exclusive audition in front of a wide panel of industry leaders.
Faculty Immersion Labs: Deep dive into artistry, performance, and process.
Mentorship Rounds: Small cohort coaching with Embody faculty.
Evening Socials: Space to celebrate, connect and be inspired.
Embody Gala: A formal, immersive celebration featuring a Blue Carpet, scholarship ceremony, live performances, awards, and more.

Pricing

Studios, please email info@embodydanceconference.com for full Nationals pricing and incentive details.

Competition Livestream

Can’t attend in person? Access links will be included in the Welcome Packet provided to registered studios.