Boombalfestival 2026 | August 19-23, 2026
Workshop photo Rhythmic variations in scottisch
Workshop: Rhythmic variations in scottisch
By Koen Dhondt
Thursday | 10:30 | Temple 1

With Koen Dhondt, we will dive into a lively exploration of Scottish variations, where one familiar dance opens the door to many possibilities: Playful changes in rhythm, surprising turns, shifts in direction, and creative twists that bring new life to the Scottish.


Workshop photo Boombal introduction
Workshop: Boombal introduction
By Various teachers
Thursday | 12:00 | Temple 1

Step into the joyful world of Boombal with “Boombal Introduction”, the perfect starting point for your festival day:

In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the essential steps, rhythms, and connections that will get you onto the dance floor with confidence. From your very first turns to simple partner dances, everything is designed to be accessible, fun, and immediately usable.

A warm and welcoming introduction where no experience is needed—just bring your curiosity, and get ready to dance along with the wonderful live bands throughout the day.


Workshop photo Breathing circle
Workshop: Breathing circle
By Elena Leibbrand
Thursday | 12:00 | Temple 2

With Elena, we will have a closer look at a selection of circle dances that have a « breathing » characteristic :

Rondes from Bretagne, Quercy, Berry and Poitou, as well as a beautiful collective bourrée.

This is a lovely workshop for festivals, as we rapidly touch on dances from different regions, most of which are now played by many musicians.


Workshop photo Active following
Workshop: Active following
By Maria & Francesco
Friday | 10:30 | Temple 1

With Maria & Francesco, discover the subtle art of active following, where dancing becomes a true two-way conversation:

Through schottische, mazurka, and waltz, we’ll explore how both partners can listen, respond, and shape the dance together. Expect playful experiments, moments of surprise, and a fresh take on connection—where leading and following gently blur into a shared flow.

An accessible and uplifting workshop, perfect for curious dancers, where everyone leaves with new insights, a lighter step, and a smile.


Workshop photo Boombal introduction
Workshop: Boombal introduction
By Various teachers
Friday | 12:00 | Temple 1

Step into the joyful world of Boombal with “Boombal Introduction”, the perfect starting point for your festival day:

In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the essential steps, rhythms, and connections that will get you onto the dance floor with confidence. From your very first turns to simple partner dances, everything is designed to be accessible, fun, and immediately usable.

A warm and welcoming introduction where no experience is needed—just bring your curiosity, and get ready to dance along with the wonderful live bands throughout the day.


Workshop photo Step into the world of Poitou
Workshop: Step into the world of Poitou
By Joris & Sara
Friday | 12:00 | Temple 2

With Joris & Sara, journey into the warm and vibrant world of Poitou folk dances:

Rooted in tradition yet full of life, these dances invite you to play with rhythm, connection, and collective energy. From flowing circles to lively group dynamics, you’ll discover the unique character of this region and the joy of dancing it together.

A welcoming and feel-good workshop, guided by familiar Boombal energy, where both newcomers and experienced dancers can dive in and enjoy the richness of Poitou.


Workshop photo The bourrée of Parasol
Workshop: The bourrée of Parasol
By Gerard Godon
Saturday | 10:30 | Temple 1

With Gérard Godon, step into a creative and one-of-a-kind bourrée workshop, straight from the heart of the Berry:

Drawing on over 30 years of experience as a dancer and choreographer—and as the creator of Parasol—Gérard invites you to discover two brand-new bourrées. From the poetic opening and closing of la bourrée Parasol, with its flowing partner changes inspired by circassian circles, to the playful bourrée bachata, blending traditional 3-time steps with an unexpected modern twist. A unique and lively workshop where tradition meets fresh invention, offering dancers the rare chance to explore never-before-danced creations—full of movement, connection, and joyful surprises.


Workshop photo Just dance the Mazurka
Workshop: Just dance the Mazurka
By Matias Xôr
Saturday | 12:00 | Temple 2

With Matias Xôr, step into the simple magic of “Just Dance the Mazurka”, where feeling comes before form:

Through gentle guidance and intuitive exploration, we’ll focus on connection, flow, and the essence of the mazurka—letting go of overthinking and embracing the dance as it comes. Expect small details, shared moments, and that unmistakable mazurka feeling that carries you across the floor. A warm and inviting workshop for all levels, where the goal is simple: to dance, to feel, and to enjoy every step together.


Workshop photo Boombal introduction
Workshop: Boombal introduction
By Various teachers
Saturday | 12:00 | Temple 1

Step into the joyful world of Boombal with “Boombal Introduction”, the perfect starting point for your festival day:

In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the essential steps, rhythms, and connections that will get you onto the dance floor with confidence. From your very first turns to simple partner dances, everything is designed to be accessible, fun, and immediately usable.

A warm and welcoming introduction where no experience is needed—just bring your curiosity, and get ready to dance along with the wonderful live bands throughout the day.


Workshop photo Swedish Magic
Workshop: Swedish Magic
By Anna & Yarince
Sunday | 10:30 | Temple 1

Swedish Magic: Slängpolska & The Art of Connection

Join Anna and Yarince for an immersive journey into the mesmerizing world of Slängpolska på fläck (Slängpolska on the spot). Guided by the driving, live music of Viola and Gabriele from Boccadoro, this workshop is much more than just learning dance steps—it’s an experiential laboratory.

We will use the hypnotic, flowing rhythms of Swedish dances to deeply explore musicality and active listening. You will discover how to refine the connection with your partner through a touch that is delicate, yet deeply present. Much like in contact improvisation, this subtle point of physical and energetic contact becomes the key to unlocking a wonderful, playful dialogue on the dance floor.

Come explore the magic of shared gravity, continuous flow, and the pure joy of co-leading and dancing as one!


Workshop photo Boombal introduction
Workshop: Boombal introduction
By Various teachers
Sunday | 12:00 | Temple 1

Step into the joyful world of Boombal with “Boombal Introduction”, the perfect starting point for your festival day:

In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the essential steps, rhythms, and connections that will get you onto the dance floor with confidence. From your very first turns to simple partner dances, everything is designed to be accessible, fun, and immediately usable.

A warm and welcoming introduction where no experience is needed—just bring your curiosity, and get ready to dance along with the wonderful live bands throughout the day.


Workshop photo Smooth turning in waltz
Workshop: Smooth turning in waltz
By Koen Dhondt
Sunday | 12:00 | Temple 2

With Koen Dhondt, step into the flowing world of “Smooth Turning in Waltz”, where familiar movement meets unexpected rhythms:

Exploring waltzes in 5, 8, and even 11 beats, we’ll work on solid basics, listening exercises, and a range of rhythmic and creative variations. As the patterns shift, so does your awareness—inviting you to move with greater ease, musicality, and connection.

An enriching and accessible workshop where turning becomes smoother, rhythms more playful, and every dancer finds new ways to glide across the floor.

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