The International Association of Gay Square Dance Clubs will stage its annual gathering in Montreal from July 1 through July 5, 2026. The five‑day event marks the first occasion in the convention’s 43‑year history that it will be hosted in the Canadian city.
The convention brings together gay square‑dance clubs from around the world for workshops, social dances and competitions. This year’s program will run for five consecutive days, offering participants a full schedule of activities typical of the association’s yearly meetings.
Co‑organizers Jean‑Marc Robichaud and Joel Smith are responsible for coordinating the Montreal edition. Their involvement reflects a partnership between local organizers and the international body that oversees the convention each year.
Since its inception, the convention has traveled to a different host city annually, rotating among locations that support the gay square‑dance community. Montreal’s selection as the 2026 venue adds a new chapter to the event’s long record, highlighting the city’s role as a host for LGBTQ‑focused cultural gatherings.
The five‑day schedule, set for early July, follows the association’s tradition of providing a mix of instructional sessions and social dancing. Attendees can expect the usual format of the convention, with the added distinction of being the first to experience it within Montreal’s borders.
The International Association of Gay Square Dance Clubs anticipates that the July 1‑5 dates will attract clubs and dancers eager to participate in the historic Montreal edition, continuing the organization’s mission of fostering community through dance.
