The Only Festival Dedicated to Dance, Music, and Arts by Queer & Trans Artists!
We are back!
QALDF is for those ready to experience the rhythm of dance, the power of music, and the brilliance of queer and trans artistry across every form.
From Afro-Latin roots to queer creativity everywhere, this is where we gather, shine, and celebrate.
THE RHYTHM SEEKERS AND THE BOUNDARY BREAKERS
THE MOVERs AND SHAKERs
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
QALDF is for
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Pool Parties
Dive Into the Magic of Our Pool Parties!
Join us for three unforgettable pool parties throughout the festival weekend—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. These are some of the most popular moments of QALDF, featuring the Bay Area’s top DJs and surprise special artist hosts. Expect vibrant vibes, a splash of fun, and a chance to soak in the sun with our festival family. Stay tuned for the host announcements coming soon!
Nightly Theme Parties
Get ready for three unforgettable nights at QALDF!
Every evening—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—you’ll experience three vibrant dance rooms: a Bachata room, a Salsa room, and a Mix room playing Reggaetón, Perreo, and more. Our queer, trans, and allied DJs will be spinning all night long, keeping every room energized and alive.
Each night features its own theme, with our signature “This Is Me” party taking over Saturday night. Stay tuned for Friday/Saturday themes! Expect special hosts each night and dancing that goes strong until 4 a.m. across all three rooms.
Come ready to explore, express yourself, and celebrate with community all night long.
Meet & Greet
Join us Friday at QALDF for a vibrant, welcoming mixer where you'll meet fellow dancers, creatives, and friends in a relaxed, joyful space. Think of it as your festival kickoff party, hosted by some of our favorite community stars. More details coming soon—get ready to make new friends and start the weekend off with a whole lot of love and laughter!
🌈 Introducing Our First-Ever Queer Greet & Meet! 🌈
Full Festival Pass
@the door
$385
$365
june
save $20
$345
may
save $40
$305
april
save $80
$285
march
save $100
$255
february
save $130
$235
january
save $150
$215
Nov 28th - dec 31st
best price
Watch Previous Festivals!
- WORKSHOP INSTRUCTORS -
The amazing Lineup
Angie & Audrey
Angelica & Jahaira
Alicia Langalis
Becca
Antoine Hunter
Andrew Noel
Cassandra Villasenor
Carlos Basquiat
Bryon & Samantha
Franklin Liranzo
Diana Aburto
Danny Ramirez
Ishami Dance
Héctor Jaime
Gail Burks
Jhesus Aponte
Jayven & Princess
Jack Rushford
Kathy Reyes
Karol Maracas
Joel Gomez
Lilly Rose
Latisha Hardy
Kyla Hallums
Mireille Ruiz
Mariah & Andrea
Lyrik Cruz
Jahaira Fajardo
Ngoc
Monique
Mers
Sabrih Joy
Rafa
Rachel Noel
Susana Arenas
Serena Spears
Sarah Fe & Marisa
The Honey Steppers
alicia langlais
Alicia Langlais is a Bay Area dancer, full-time High School dance educator, and Dance Inspiration Coach. Alicia is known for her signature dance style which integrates an Afro-diasporic aesthetic with her passion for ballet grounded in her training at Harlem School of the Arts and The Ailey School. Alicia is the creator of Diaspora Dance, a Caribbean Vibes meets Afro Pop dance party class, an all-levels movement experience that celebrates Black joy through the lens of contemporary afro-diasporic dances. She is also the Creative Director of the 2X “Best Choreography” awarding winning group, the Diaspora Dance Black Joy Parade Performance Team. Alicia has collaborated with numerous schools, companies, and organizations as a specialty workshop facilitator, speaker, and commercial artist including Xfinity, Coursera, Zendesk, Afro Punk Festival, to name a few. In addition to a Master’s in School Counseling, Alicia also has an M.A. in Transpersonal Psychology with a focus in Creative Expression. Her studies and research in Dance Therapy allows Alicia to meld her cultural and professional dance history, and personal experience with performance anxiety and mental burnout, as the basis of her approach as a Dance Inspiration Coach. In this role, she helps clients eliminate, or "slay" dance related limiting beliefs, which she calls "Dance Dragons," and obtain greater confidence, purpose, and success.
Angelica Medina and Jahaira Fajardo are the Directors of In Lak’ech Dance Academy, in Oakland CA. They both share an immense passion for dance, and in 2014 they met and fell in love on the dance floor. They soon after decided to grow as dance partners while training for competition. In December 2015 they placed 1st in the Latin Ladies Same Gender Division, at the World Latin Dance Cup. Jahaira made history as the first Bachata female leader to become a World Champion. In 2018, they returned to to WLDC as pros and placed first in the Bachata Couple Pro Cabaret division.
In 2017, Jahaira and Angelica participated and completed the Alex and Desiree Bachata Instructor Certification Course. They also had the honor to Direct The AnD WW ~Team SF Season One.
In 2018, In Lak’ech Dance Academy produced the first ever Queer Latin Dance Festival, where Queer and Trans Latinx dancers are highlighted and celebrated. This event continues on an annual basis.
In Lak´ech Dance Academy is the direct result of the passion Angelica & Jahaira share for Latin Dance and for their community.
bachata | all level
angelica & jahaira
Angie and Audrey are a married, queer, non-binary dance couple from the Caribbean specializing in Afro-Latin dances. Co-founders of ORO Dance Company in Austin, TX, they uplift Afro-rooted art forms while challenging traditional gender roles in partner dance by switching lead and follow in their sequences and celebrating femme energy as powerful and self-determined. They began their journey as a public figure and dance couple in 2016. Through their productions and online presence, they model what it means for two femmes to thrive together in art and business,.Their shows highlight dancers of all body types, ages, genders, and racial backgrounds—queer, non-binary, and expressive performers coming together to create a kaleidoscope that more truthfully reflects the world we live in. In 2022, they were featured in the PBS series If Cities Could Dance in the episode “Queer Salsa: How One Nonbinary Couple Leads and Follows,” which was nominated for a regional Emmy Award in Texas. Their work has also been honored with “Best Partner Dance” at the Queer Dance Film Festival and showcased at leading festivals and productions across the U.S. and Canada. With innovative productions such as Hecha de Oro and the immersive Afro-Latin cabaret series After Dark, Angie and Audrey continue to build inclusive performing arts spaces that celebrate culture, storytelling, and freedom through dance.
angie & audrey
Andrew Noel, the King of Twerk, brings the heart of twerk straight from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
His passion began with self-taught freestyle and hip-hop influences that he developed with his high school dance team, performing annually at his local Halloween festival. His pursuit has followed him through college at Stetson University, as a member of the Top Hats Dance Team. From sports events to festivals to dance floors, in music videos and through leading classes, Andrew's love for dance has touched lives across the country, and now the world.
In joining Confidanca as a professional twerk expert in 2021, Andrew has developed his craft at throwing ass with fellow dancers, taking his journey international to stages in Mexico City and Perth, Australia.
Andrew's journey in dance is only beginning to blossom, and he is looking forward to bringing influences of his Haitian culture like Kompa into his unique dancing styles, showcasing that dance is not only a display of community joy, but an expression of his sense of self and unique identity.
Twerk
ANDREW NOEL
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Antoine Hunter
Becca (she/her) is a Seattle-based teacher, choreographer, and director with over 18 years of experience in movement and performance. She specializes in dance conditioning for Latin dancers, focusing on strength, control, and intentionality in movement. As the founder of BGC Dance, she has led the company through eight successful seasons, training and choreographing for over 40 dancers across three teams. Her work empowers dancers to build technical foundations while developing their unique voice and presence.
becca
Inessence Dance Company directors Bryon and Sammantha Stroud first joined forces in 2012. What began as a small group of local bachata dancers has since grown into a thriving organization of over 100 members across the Bay Area. Known for their smooth bachata footwork and partnerwork, Bryon and Sammantha continue to inspire dancers through their creativity, connection, and dedication to the community.
Bachata Partnerwork | intermediate
bryon & sammantha
Carlos Basquiat is a dancer with 25+ years of experience who has captivated audiences with his innovative and riveting performances. His choreography transcends traditional boundaries and explores the realms of imagination, symbolism, and cultural commentary. Carlos possesses a distinct style that seamlessly blends various genres including ballet, jazz, hip hop, salsa, and vogue to name a few. Carlos Basquiat has an impressive portfolio of exhibitions and collaborations to his name, including most recently Beyonce's renaissance world tour where he co-choreographed and danced. His work has garnered significant attention and praise from some of the most prestigious choreographers. Carlos is also committed to giving back to the community and has been involved in several initiatives, including teaching at multiple dance studios across the world. he is committed to providing the best for all dancers, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. he believes that dance is a growth, and he's very passionate about sharing his passion with others.
Carlos Basquiat
Cassandra Villaseñor is a Bay Area-based artist, director, and choreographer with over 20 years of dance experience spanning Ballet, Contemporary, Mexican Folkloric, and multiple Latin dance genres. She is the Founder of Con Todo Dance Company, a program rooted in technique, community, and artistic self-expression.
Cassandra is passionate about preserving and teaching the foundations of Bachata while also exploring expressive storytelling through movement. She has a deep love for choreographing competitive works and narrative pieces that allow dancers to feel, perform, and connect with true intention.
Having grown up in a Hispanic immigrant household, Cassandra has experienced firsthand the power of dance as a healing outlet. Her mission is to provide spaces where dancers of all backgrounds can release, grow, and find confidence through movement. Whether teaching, choreographing, or performing, she brings heart, discipline, and authenticity to every space she steps into.
Cassandra Villasenor
Supernova (they/them/elle) has been dancing for over twenty-five years, training in jazz, hip-hop, and various Latin dance styles, with a special focus on bachata for the past fifteen. They began teaching in 2012 as a quinceañera instructor and later co-founded Supernova, a hip-hop bachata fusion duo that was incorporated into La Tormenta Dance Co. in 2017, based in Berkeley/Oakland. In 2024, they earned a B.A. in Women and Gender Studies with a minor in Human Sexuality from San Francisco State University.
Rooted in the belief that dance is a source of healing and joy, Supernova is committed to creating spaces that are accessible and affirming for queer communities, people with disabilities, and the working class. Their classes incorporate connection, body movement, gender expansive styling, and stepping into your confidence, while also modeling and educating on disability justice, access, queer justice, and gender freedom—making room for everyone to move, feel, and be.
Danny Ramirez
Diana Aburto Vega is a Nicaraguan-born dancer, teaching artist, and cultural worker whose practice bridges tradition, versatility, and activism. Deeply rooted in Nicaraguan dance rhythms, she is trained in Afro Latin Dance styles, modern, jazz, dancehall, and Afro-Cuban techniques. She has directed award-winning Nicaraguan folklore troupes in San Francisco and continues to carry her heritage forward through performance, pedagogy, and community engagement. As a teaching artist with InLak’ech Dance Academy, Diana is known for her dynamic, inclusive, and culturally grounded approach to instruction. She coaches from experienced to novice movers of all ages, including well-known artists, emerging performers, and community-based movers. Her teaching emphasizes technique, musicality, embodiment, and personal expression—meeting each dancer where they are while inviting them into deeper confidence, discipline, and joy.
Beyond performance and teaching, Diana is a full-time mother, as well as a business manager and producer, committed to building sustainable artistic projects and equitable cultural spaces. She collaborates with La Mezcla and other artists and organizations, bringing her leadership and lived experience into every space she enters. Across classrooms, studios, and stages, Diana offers a dance practice that is powerful, welcoming, and deeply rooted in culture, community, and transformation.
Diana Aburto
Franklin Liranzo is an 8-time world champion Latin dancer, achieving top rankings in salsa, bachata, and cha-cha-cha since 2013.
He has consistently placed in prestigious international events, including multiple first-place wins at the World Salsa Summit and various global congresses.
As a highly successful instructor, his Pro-Am students have earned over 650 combined medals, demonstrating his exceptional coaching ability.
He has traveled globally, performing and judging at renowned events like the World Salsa Solo in Australia and numerous international festivals.
His competitive career showcases consistent excellence, making him a recognized figure in the world of Latin dance."
Franklin liranzo
Gail “G-Funk” Burks (she/her) is a Bay Area-based performing artist and educator who hails from Chicago. A lover of dance who has studied multiple styles, Wh/aacking is one of her main specialties. Since entering the street dance scene in 2012, she has performed, battled, choreographed, and taught in the States and internationally along with placing in competitions such as Freestyle Session LA and Vancouver Street Dance Festival.
Her credits include Mix’d Ingrdnts, collaborating artist for Strike & Release (the Bay Area’s 1st All-Wh/aacking theater show), workshop instructor at UC Berkeley, featured choreographer for Bliss Dance Festival 2021, and many more. You can currently find her as one of the Wh/aacking teachers at In The Groove Studios in Oakland!
Gail Burks
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Héctor Jaime
Ishami is a South Asian Contemporary dance company founded by Amit Patel & Ishika Seth that blends movements and aesthetics of South Asian Classical and Folk dance forms with Western Dance forms. Ishami's mission is to explore, unite and amplify the diverse voices, stories and histories of the South Asian diaspora and dismantle social and cultural constructs. Rooted in storytelling, they tread the line between traditional and modern and spark conversations through art. They have toured their works to New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, and believe in building community through the arts.
Ishami Dance
Hailing from Denver, Colorado, Jack Rushford is a dancer, director, educator, and choreographer with expertise in W*acking. Over the past 16 years, Jack has honed their expertise in W*acking, a journey that has involved rigorous training and a deep-seated passion for the art form. Jack's approach to dance education is deeply rooted in culture and community, and they are committed to sharing their skills and knowledge with others. Their training journey has been enriched by learning from a host of renowned W*ackers and Punkers, including the likes of Jee Wee Kalua, Archie Burnette, Lorena Valenzuela, Viktor Manolo, and Kumari Suraj, among others. Jack's teaching experience spans across the Bay Area, having taught at esteemed studios such as In the Groove Studios, Full Out Studios, On One, City Dance, Enjoy (EDS), and LNGDS Dance Studio. Jack is eager to continue sharing their passion for W*acking and Punking Culture with the community, inspiring others through their love for dance.
Jack Rushford
Directors of Alliance Dance Academy and co-organizers of the Los Angeles Queer Weekender, Jayven and Princess Colon are professional salsa dancers, choreographers, and instructors based in Los Angeles, California. Together, they bring a powerful blend of artistry, technique, and stage presence to every performance and workshop. Both have years of individual experience teaching, competing, and performing internationally, making them a dynamic duo recognized for their passion and precision on the dance floor. Their mission is to share the transformative power of dance and create memorable, high-energy experiences wherever they go.
Jayven Colon has been dancing for over 15 years and teaching since 2017. His background includes teaching in diverse communities, from non-profit programs to public schools, with a focus on accessibility and empowerment through dance.
David “Princess” Colon, originally from Costa Rica, is a professional dancer and choreographer with over 11 years of experience performing on stage and competing in some of the most prestigious Salsa events worldwide, including the Summit and the Euroson Latino World Salsa Championship. His versatile background includes Salsa, Bachata, Heels, and Contemporary dance, giving his movement a unique and expressive quality.
Jayven & Princess
Jhesus Aponte has been surrounded by dance his entire life and has taken the talent he was born with to the greatest heights with every intention of continuing his ascension to even taller peaks. An internationally renowned dancer and choreographer who is taking the world by storm with every rhythmic move he makes, Aponte is two times winner of World Salsa Championships, prestigious titles to add to his already abundant list of accomplishments.
Born and raised in the town of Santurce in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, Jhesus Aponte comes from a family of musicians. Music was constantly played in the home and Salsa, the cultural music and dance of the island, became embedded in Aponte's subconscious in the same way learning to speak does. It's not something you think about, it's something you simply know.
Aponte's inherent love of dance took a more professional turn at the hands of a friend who brought him to an aerobic jazz class. "I was enchanted," he says of that first formal lesson, "and decided to start training to become a more complete dancer." Classes in Jazz, Ballet, Music Theatre, Tap, Hip Hop, Swing, Hustle, Flamenco and Rumba, ensued at various schools throughout Puerto Rico, including Bailos, New Attitude, Conservatorio de Ballet Concierto de Puerto Rico, and Dance Machine, and New York City at Broadway Dance Center, Steps and Eglevsky Ballet where he had a Summer Scholarships. In 1991, Aponte landed his first job as a professional dancer, and has not stopped working professionally since. As a Choreographer Aponte has choreographed for many Stars, Concerts, TV, Music Videos and Commercials. In Theatre, The West End in the UK , Off-Broadway and many Regional Theatres in USA, Dominican Republic, Uk and PR. Jhesus has taught and perform in countries such as, North, Central and South America, Turkey, Italy, Morocco, Hungary, Spain, Japan, South Korea, China, France, Monaco, Switzerland, Norway, United Kingdom, Israel, Poland, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Germany, Thailand, Australia, Guadeloupe & Sweden.
jhesus aponte
Born in Líbano, Tolima, and raised in Cali, Colombia, Joel Gómez discovered his passion for dance at age five. He began his professional career at 18 and later founded his school, CaliSabor by Joel Gómez & Dance Company.
Trained in Salsa Caleña, L.A. style, Puerto Rican salsa (on1 & on2), bachata, kizomba, jazz, hip-hop, heels dance, and Colombian folklore, Joel is known for blending Salsa Caleña with Puerto Rican salsa. He has performed with and created choreography for artists and companies such as Grupo Niche and Romeo Santos, and has danced internationally across Latin America and Europe.
Inspired by his mother, Joel’s goal is to share Colombian salsa worldwide, develop innovative teaching methods, and elevate Salsa Caleña on the international stage—particularly in Italy, where his influence is already shaping new choreography and training.
joel gomez
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Karol Maracas
+15 years of professional dance experience, Teaching, performing and judging Bachata competitions in Local and international venues.
Currently based in Berkeley Ca.
Director of KathyReyesDance Performance teams.
Producer of 2 top dance socials in the Bay Area and founder of BELLA Dance Weekender, a unique women’s celebration.
Kathy Reyes
Kyla Hallums is a Nashville-based dance teacher and certified somatics practitioner who believes movement should feel joyful, healing, and accessible for all. With a background rooted in both traditional and social dances, she creates spaces where people of every ability and background can explore, connect, and grow.
Blending somatic practices with years of dance experience, Kyla helps students move with confidence, regulate their energy, and celebrate their authentic selves. She is especially passionate about Salsa and Bachata, where she shows how dance can be both deeply grounding and full of joy.
Her teaching is playful, human, and heart-centered—inviting people to step into their power, embrace their bodies, and discover freedom in every step and breath.
kayla hallumus
Latisha Hardy is a business owner and professional dancer, bringing culture and diversity to Colorado Springs, Colorado. Leaving corporate America in 2016, she began dancing professionally and opened her own studio. Recently moving to the Downtown area, the studio quickly became city renowned and recognized for its professionalism, expertise, and community.
Latisha’s dedication to community brought together a semi-professional dance team that travels and performs across the states with a message of empowerment. The impact on the team and in the community have been remarkable.
latisha Hardy
Lilly Rose Valore (she/her/hers) is a multifaceted artist, dancer, model, trans activist, filmmaker, and showgirl based in Boston, MA. As a full-time artist, Lilly Rose Valore performs extensively throughout the city, engaging in residencies, one-off shows, and numerous college appearances.
Throughout her career, Lilly has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the lives of marginalized groups. She frequently participates in LGBTQ+ awareness panels, teaches Vogue classes and history, and performs at LGBTQ fundraising events to improve the quality of life for queer individuals in Boston. By incorporating queer symbolism into her art, Lilly utilizes photography, film, and dance to share her story on social media platforms, thereby reaching a broader demographic.
Follow Lilly Rose Valore on all social media platforms and look out for her 5th video series “Looking For America” on all social media platforms. The POV of LRV in the USA.
lilly rose
Lyrik Cruz of Puerto Rican descent from Chicago has become a highly acclaimed world renowned choreographer and master instructor who has danced in just about every corner of the world, including Canada, West Africa, South America, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and Canary Islands.
He has served as a guest Choreographer to over 20 dance companies in the world. In addition to choreographing for shows at Madison Square Garden, Hammerstein Ballroom and major music venues throughout the east coast, for the past 6 years Lyrik has served as a principal choreographer on creative team of legendary choreographer and TV director Debbie Allen, showcased pieces at the Wallis Annenberg Theatre for Nigel Lithgoe, appeared on the CW's hit sitcom "Jane the Virgin" as a featured dancer, choreographed for international recording artists J Balvin (Capitol Latino) and Becky G (RCA), Spike TV's "Lip Sync Battle", The ELLEN Show, Greys Anatomy and the finale of American Idol "The Farewell Season" on FOX.
Cruz' is also part of the creative team for Norman Lear’s IMAGEN AWARDS where he serves as the creative director and choreographer. Most recently Cruz garnered nominations for the CHITA RIVERA AWARD in NYC and the World Choreography Awards in LA for his work in the movie “SHINE” for outstanding choreography in a film and just wrapped in Warner Brothers “In The Heights” the movie where he is one of the featured dancers. Cruz adds a unique flair and vibrant energy to every project he is involved in. Cruz is on a mission to share his passion with the world and bring his Latin fusion to the forefront of TV/film.
lyrik cruz
Mariah and Andrea Burkhart, founders and creative directors of Embrace dance company, based out of Reno NV. Our love for dance is what brought us together in the beginning, and is still a big part of who we are together today. Just like the love we have for dance, our love for one another is ever flowing and everlasting. We strive to grow, learn and teach in the world of dance, continuing to create movement that represents who we are as a company as well as, who we are as a couple. Embrace is a company where we encourage our dancers to be unapologetically who they are, in a space we continue to make safe and welcoming, for all who have the desire to grow along side us.
Mariah & Andrea
Mireille Ruiz Born and raised in Mexico City grew up dancing and listening to Latin Music as part of her culture including Cumbia, she learned her first following Techniques dancing with her father in every family fiesta.
She has a Mexican folklore, Jazz, tap dancing and gymnastics, background as well as she is a percussionist, drummer and Montessori Teacher.
She grew up performing since she the age of 4.
Bay Area bachata and cumbia dance instructor,
Mireille has been teaching, performing and leading dance teams, around USA since 2010.
Mireille Ruiz
Mers Tran (they/them) is a queer and gender non-binary 2nd-generation Vietnamese-American creative, community steward, and high school science educator. Their 16 years of dance experience originated from choreographed homecoming rallies popularized in California high schools.
They directed the all-womens choreography team at UC San Diego called 4N01, and coordinated the first on-campus freestyle dance competition for women. Since 2018, they have dedicated their craft to Old Way Vogue, now teaching monthly classes and sessions where they reside in Oakland, California.
Mers
Monique Manzo, a Reno, Nevada local, began her dancing career over 20 years ago, training at a variety of studios located in some of the performing arts capitals of the world including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Las Vegas.
In 2017, Monique decided to utilize her knowledge and expertise to form her own community of talented and passionate dancers through the creation of The Reno Empire, a dance studio located in her hometown of Reno, NV. Monique began directing two performance teams at The Reno Empire - Bachata and Heels. She incorporates a variety of styles throughout her teaching and choreography including Hip-Hop, Jazz, Latin, and Burlesque. Although it’s clear that Monique has a love and passion for all forms of dance, there is one style that will always hold a special place in her heart: Bachata.
“The first time I heard a Bachata Remix - I fell in love. By allowing the music to take over my soul, my body began to realize the many styles that Bachata could encompass. It was love at first dance.” - Monique, on her love for Bachata.
From soft and sweet to hard-hitting and sexy,
To her, providing a space for her students to grow as dancers and performers is the best part of teaching. Because of her deep understanding and appreciation for the art of dance, Monique is able to identify the individual strengths and talents of each and every one of her students, providing them with the necessary skills and technique to become more confident, empowered, and attention-grabbing dancers with every step..
monique manzo
Ngoc Huynh, Bay Area native who has always enjoyed music and dance. In 2013 she pursued her dance training in Heels, Contemporary, Pole Fitness and Bachata. She trained under various Bachata instructors before she started competing in 2018. She placed 1st multiple times in various Bachata competitions including the Bachata Amatuer Couple Caberet Division at the World Latin Dance Cup in 2019.
She continues this day just wanting to dance. Along with just wanting to dance, she really wants to share the dance space and platform with other passionate dancers.
Ngoc
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Rachel Noel
As a Heels Coach, Rafael Gonzalez brings a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in Chicago and his Mexican heritage. His classes focus on developing confidence and command through mastering fundamental & techniques, with a special emphasis on Heels & Command. By connecting the spiritual, physical, and mental aspects through dance, students will experience a transformative journey that enhances their movement and presence. The curriculum is designed to foster star quality and instill impeccable dance etiquette.
Rafa Gonzalez
Sabrih is passionate about movement and shares her knowledge as a Yoga teacher and Dance Instructor. She grew up in West Africa where she found her love for adventure and her passion to teach culturally based movement. She has a 300 hr. Yoga Alliance certification from Thailand and a Dance teaching certificate from her studies at San Francisco College. She graduated with a master’s in human biology from Hunter College in New York.
Sábrih has a background teaching Vinyasa yoga, Restorative Yoga, dance, mat Pilates and many forms of Meditation including her branded style which she named Meditative Movement.
Some of her most rewarding work has been in teaching people different ways to Meditate in order to incorporate it into their daily ritual. She has worked with various Organizations around the U.S and Universities like N.Y.U and Colombia in making Yoga more accessible to students in times of need. Sábrih believes that through breath we provide ourselves a moment to be in the present moment and share peace in this lively moving world. She is influenced by the moments of stillness in and out of yoga.
Sabrih joy
Sarah Fe Harris Juarbe(they/them) is a queer multidisciplinary dance artist of Black American and Puerto Rican descent. Originally from New York City, Fe has dedicated their artistic endeavors to the proliferation of diasporic Afro-Caribbean and Black American music and dance forms, namely salsa/mambo, boogaloo/funk, bachata tradicional, and bolero.
Fe currently coaches and instructs in Oakland and San Francisco"
Marisa Craig is a queer Bay Area–based artist and professional dancer. She draws from her Colombian heritage and contemporary training in her work. A three-time amateur world salsa champion, she currently directs the dance company Karel Flores San Francisco. Marisa is also a graduate student in psychology, with a special interest in grief, dance movement therapy, and the healing power of embodied expression.
Sarah Fe & Marisa
Serena Spears is a fusion dancer, performer, teacher, and choreographer from Brooklyn, NY. With over 35 years of dance experience and a diverse background in hip-hop, modern, African, and ballet as well as Afro-Latin and Middle Eastern dance forms, Serena focuses on creating seamlessly integrated and moving art that inspires people around the world.
After several decades of studying various solo dance forms, Serena was introduced to partner dancing in 2013. She dove headfirst into the Afro-Latin dance community, spending the subsequent years exploring salsa, bachata, merengue, chachachá, rumba, Afro-Cuban folklore, tango, Brazilian zouk, kizomba, konpa and most recently, Latin hustle and samba de gafieira. Combining her new training pathways with the old has given her a unique perspective on body mechanics, movement, and connection to the self and others, and it continues to strengthen her love of dance as a means of healing ourselves, creating art, and building community.
serena spears
Susana Arenas Pedroso is an internationally recognized Cuban Folkloric and popular (i.e. social) dancer. Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, Ms Pedroso began her career in dance at age twelve, studying at La Casa
de Cultura de Matanzas and at Conjunto Folklórico Nacional in Havana.
She danced professionally for seventeen years in Cuba with popular, folkloric and theatrical performing groups, including Tierra Virgen, Alafia Ire, Oche Olorun, Oriki, Clave y Guaguancó, Oba Wemilere, Rumberos
de Cuba, and Raíces Profundas.
Since her arrival in the United States in 1998, Ms Pedroso has performed and choreographed numerous pieces that have been exhibited throughout the United States, Mexico, Cuba and Hong Kong with companies such as Omo Ache, Omo Oddara, Ban Rarra, Ire Ile, Alayo Dance Company, Las Que Son Son and Obini Ashe.
A respected cultural bearer, Susana Arenas Pedroso teaches throughout the Bay Area and the country and is responsible for teaching thousands of students
susana arenas
The Honey Steppers is a dynamic line dance company founded in February 2025 by cousins Shay and SJ, created in loving tribute to their late grandmother, affectionately known as Honey. Her warmth, joy, and sense of community continue to inspire everything they do. What began as a family dream has blossomed into a vibrant, well-rounded business offering engaging line dance classes, high-energy performances at local events, and custom event hosting for businesses and community organizations across California.
The Honey Steppers’ mission is simple: to get people moving their bodies and out of their heads. Through dance, they strive to provide a space where individuals can prioritize their physical and mental well-being, build confidence, and connect with others. Shay and SJ are also passionate about introducing California to the rich, soulful trailride culture that influences their style, their music, and their movement.
Community is at the heart of The Honey Steppers. They proudly support local initiatives such as Stop the Violence in Del Paso Heights and perform annually for Celebration Arts’ Juneteenth Celebration, honoring culture, unity, and joyful expression.
The Honey Steppers is more than a dance company—it is a family, a movement, and a celebration of heritage. And they’re just getting started.
The Honey Steppers
- hosts-
Grace Towers
sIR jOQ
Amoura Teese
Bay Area Diva & Drag Artist, Amoura Teese is inspired by iconic women in pop culture, while embracing the roots of their Mexican-American heritage, combining that with glamorous, flamboyant, & colorful drag fashion, makeup, dance, and vocal performance. A former Miss Gay San Francisco & Resident Diva at The Port Bar in Downtown Oakland.
Showcase Host!
Amoura Teese
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host
sIR jOQ
Grace Towers is a San Francisco–based Queer Latinx artist whose work celebrates community, cultura, and queer joy. With 13 years of shaping transformative spaces, she uses drag and movement as portals for empowerment, connection, and self-expression.
host
Grace Towers
STAY TUNED AS WE RELEASE
2026 FULL FESTIVAL DETAILS
Workshops, Lineup, Competition, Parties and much more...
Three extraordinary nights where Queer and Trans performers light up the stage — with dance, drag, music, and art that reflect the diversity and brilliance of our community.
Sip, savor, and celebrate with a dazzling drag brunch experience that blends performance, community, and unapologetic queer joy. (Brunch just hits different when it’s this fabulous!)
Whether through a fun speed dating session, a social “mingle & meet,” or just spontaneous moments on the dance floor — QALDF creates spaces to connect, flirt, and build community.
With over 60 hours of dancing, partying, and celebration, QALDF fills your days and nights with pool parties, electrifying socials, and themed events featuring local and international DJs.
Workshops for Every Body
Inclusive and beginner-friendly, QALDF invites you to move, explore, and play in a wide spectrum of queer-led workshops — from Bachata and Salsa to Vogue, Hip Hop, Heels, and more.
A Festival Like No Other
The only dance, music, and arts festival dedicated to Queer and Trans artistry. From Afro-Latin roots to queer creativity across every genre, QALDF is where we gather, shine, and celebrate.
@thetattedbachatera
"above all, it was just good vibes. i've never felt so much love and so much support from people i don't even know"
"every queer person who is into dance, no matter where you are in the country, you should go to the queer afro latin dance festival."
what they say...
"As a trans woman, I got to chill at a pool in a cute 2 piece bathing suit and people wanted to dance with me. It's an incredible feeling that I had yet to experience! I felt more than just tolerated at the festival as a whole, I felt desired and celebrated."
"It was like a glimpse into the world we could create where everyone is safe and celebrated for showing up authentically"
"It's felt like a battle to just be gay and female presenting in this world, and your festival allowed me to feel safe, accepted, and celebrated. I'm in tears thinking of it. I talked to my therapist about it and truly you've raised the bar for all festivals but also just the space I create and participate in, in my life. Thank you for what you've created."
dancing with my corazón
45 usd
longline sports bra
QALDF PRINT
50 usd
SPORTS SHORTS
qaldf print
55 usd
leggings w/ pockets
1/2
QALDF
55 usd
HOODIE - UNISEX
4/6
dancing with my corazón
45 usd
longline sports bra
5/6
QALDF PRINT
50 usd
SPORTS SHORTS
6/6
Every dollar helps us keep this festival thriving and accessible.
Your donation supports queer and trans artists, inclusive programming, and the continued expansion of QALDF into a home for queer arts. Be part of the legacy.
Donations are tax-deductible through our fiscal sponsor, QCC: The Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Arts and Culture, which is a nonprofit organization based in the Bay Area. Thank you in advance for your invaluable support!
