Train & bus
- Take the train to Arnhem Centraal and walk about 10 minutes to Musis Sacrum.
- Or take a bus from Arnhem CS to “Velperplein” — it’s the second stop.
Festival information
Good to know.
3, 4 & 5 September 2027 in Musis Sacrum, Arnhem. Every year we celebrate on the first weekend of September. Our 6th anniversary edition will be on 1, 2 & 3 September 2028.
Early Bird Full Pass
The venue
Musis Sacrum
One of the most spectacular venues the salsa & bachata scene knows in the Netherlands. The main hall (Muzenzaal) has a breathtaking interior, a perfect wooden dance floor and a professional sound system. Workshops also run in the Balkonzaal, Van Beinumzaal, Muzen Foyer and Fromberg Foyer.
Musis SacrumVelperbinnensingel 15, 6811 BP Arnhem
Travel
Getting there
Car
- Coming for the party? Park in the Muzen Garage for €1,70 per hour.
- Looking for free parking? Try Rosendaalsestraat 27, 6824 CA Arnhem.
Plane
- Fly to Amsterdam Schiphol and take one direct train to Arnhem Centraal.
- Or fly to Eindhoven, take the shuttle to the station and travel via ’s-Hertogenbosch to Arnhem.
Tickets & access
What gets me where?
| To join… | You need |
|---|---|
| Workshops | Full Pass or Day Pass |
| Parties | Party ticket, Day Pass or Full Pass |
| Day-time social dancing | Full Pass |
Day passes and party tickets are valid for one specific day.
Edition 2027
Frequently asked
When will the full line-up be announced?
We reveal the line-up step by step. Angelo & Tania are the first names; the rest follows in the months ahead. Follow us on Instagram or keep an eye on this page so you don’t miss an announcement.
What does the Early Bird Full Pass include?
The complete weekend: all workshops, both party nights including the shows, and the day socials on all three days. Food and drinks are not included; we work with the local venues around Musis for that.
Will there be day passes or single-night tickets?
Yes. Just like previous editions we’ll offer day passes and single party tickets. Those go on sale later. The Early Bird Full Pass is available first, and in limited numbers.
I’m a beginner. Is this for me too?
Absolutely. We run workshops for every level, from complete beginners to advanced dancers. The warm community makes sure you feel at home on the dance floor from the very first moment.
Do I need to bring a partner?
No. Most of our visitors come alone or with friends. New combinations form constantly during workshops and on the dance floor. That’s exactly what makes this festival special.
Where can I stay?
We work with hotels within walking distance of Musis Sacrum, including Hotel Modez and Bastion Hotel Arnhem, both roughly 10 minutes on foot. Discount codes and availability for 2027 will be shared as soon as they’re confirmed.
How do I get to Musis Sacrum?
Musis Sacrum is a 10-minute walk from Arnhem Central Station. By car you can use the Musis parking garage, € 1.70 per hour in the evening. Prefer free parking? That’s possible in Klarendal, a 10-minute walk from the centre.
In general
More questions
Is this festival for all levels?
Yes! We welcome everyone. Our workshops are designed for all levels — from beginners to very experienced dancers. With world-class instructors and a friendly community, you’ll feel at home no matter your level.
Do you also have bachata at the festival?
Yes. You’ll find a dedicated bachata area at the evening parties, bachata workshops throughout the weekend, and mixed salsa & bachata during social dancing.
Why do the parties stop at 01:30?
We want you to enjoy the entire weekend with energy — not just one late night. Closing at 01:30 lets you recharge for the workshops the next day. We also follow city policy for event hours.
How do I know which workshops are On1 or On2, or what style they are?
Our schedule shows the style and level of each workshop (On1, On2, Cuban, Dominican bachata, styling, etc.) so you can choose what fits you best.
Are there both partnerwork and solo workshops?
Yes, we balance solo and partnerwork. Partnerwork is always part of the programme, and we also offer solo classes for styling, body movement and musicality.
What if there are more followers than leaders?
We encourage role rotation and our instructors adapt workshops to keep everyone engaged. Partners rotate often, so everyone dances.
Is the showcase really long?
Not anymore: since 2026 the shows are spread over 3 days, so each showcase has a maximum of 6 shows. Shows are an important part of the Watapana vibe and give local talent a bigger stage.
Can I dance during the live band?
Yes, the live music is for dancing! You can also enjoy watching, but the floor is open.
Will there be food and drinks?
We are exploring more food and drink options during parties and socials. Most visitors head into town after the party for a midnight snack — the closest pizzeria is 2 minutes from the venue.
Is there space to relax or take a break?
Yes, there are lounge areas and seating spaces. Follow the signs in the venue!
Does the Full Pass include the Sunday social?
Yes. Since 2026 there is a closing day-time social on Sunday in the same venue, included in the Full Pass.
How do I stay updated on artists and schedules?
Check this website and our Instagram. During the weekend schedules are online, on posters in the venue and on flyers. Join the WhatsApp community for announcements and discount codes.
Do you invite only international stars?
No — Dutch artists deserve just as much stage time. Our line-up always includes top talent from the Netherlands alongside international guests.
Is there merchandise?
Yes! Watapana shirts, hoodies and bags — sometimes with early bird discounts before the festival.
Contact