On February 10, 2026, a landmark moment in television entertainment was officially unveiled with the announcement of Dancing With the Stars Con 2026, the first‑ever fan convention dedicated to the long‑running ABC reality competition series Dancing With the Stars (DWTS). This three‑day immersive event, scheduled for July 31 through August 2 at Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, California, represents a significant evolution in how fandom and pop‑culture communities engage with legacy broadcast television brands.
A Celebration of Two Decades of Dance and Audience Engagement
Since its debut in 2005, Dancing With the Stars has become one of the most enduring unscripted television programs in the United States, captivating audiences with its blend of celebrity glamour, professional dance, and narrative arcs shaped by weekly competition. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, the franchise has not only influenced reality TV formats but also cultivated a passionate, multi‑generational fan base that spans the globe. The announcement of a dedicated fan convention marks a milestone, acknowledging the show’s cultural longevity and the depth of fan interest that extends well beyond televised episodes.
Ryan O’Dowd, president of Unscripted at BBC Studios and an executive producer on Dancing With the Stars, described the upcoming event as an opportunity to deepen the connection between the show and its fan community. In statements shared during the announcement coverage, he emphasized that DWTS Con 2026 is designed not just as a celebration, but as a fully immersive fan experience that brings the energy and artistry of the ballroom to life.
What Fans Can Expect at the Convention
Dancing With the Stars Con 2026 promises a multifaceted program that expands on the excitement of the televised competition:
- Live Dance Performances: Fans will witness routines performed by professional dancers and alumni champions of the show, offering dynamic showcases of styles ranging from the cha‑cha to contemporary pieces.
- Meet‑and‑Greets and Q&A Panels: Attendees will have opportunities to interact directly with beloved cast members, pros, and judges, including iconic figures such as Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, through scheduled panels and question‑and‑answer sessions.
- Interactive Workshops: Convention programming includes dance workshops and demonstrations that invite fans to learn techniques, engage with choreography, and gain insight into what it takes to perform at a professional level.
- Exhibits and Exclusive Merchandise: Attendees can explore interactive exhibits celebrating the show’s history and purchase limited‑edition collectibles that commemorate the event and legacy of the series.
With a venue capacity exceeding 11,000, Acrisure Arena is poised to host thousands of fans from across the country, and potentially internationally, reflecting the show’s broad cultural reach and the growing trend of experiential fan conventions around major entertainment properties.
The Broader Significance for Television Fandom
The emergence of Dancing With the Stars Con 2026 aligns with a broader shift in entertainment culture toward immersive fan experiences. In recent years, media franchises spanning television, film, music, and gaming have expanded their offerings through conventions, live tours, and interactive engagements that transcend traditional broadcast or digital formats. These events serve dual roles: they strengthen community bonds among fans while generating new revenue streams that complement existing media distribution channels.
For Dancing With the Stars, a franchise rooted in audience participation, from voting systems to emotional investment in celebrity journeys, the convention format leverages the show’s strengths in community building and participatory culture. By offering fans direct access to personalities and performances, the event encourages deeper engagement and cultivates loyalty that extends beyond weekly broadcasts.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Economically, DWTS Con 2026 is expected to draw significant tourism and hospitality activity to Palm Springs and the surrounding region. Major fan conventions often attract attendees who travel nationally, providing boosts to local hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. The event’s timing in late summer positions it strategically outside the show’s broadcast season, potentially extending the brand’s visibility and creating a year‑round presence for Dancing With the Stars.
Culturally, the convention underscores the role of reality competition shows as enduring pillars of American television. While the format has evolved with digital trends and streaming platforms, the success of Dancing With the Stars demonstrates that personality‑driven, performance‑centric programming continues to resonate deeply with audiences. The introduction of a convention highlights how such shows can adapt and thrive in an entertainment landscape defined by fan participation and experiential engagement.
Ticketing and Accessibility
Organizers have outlined a multi‑tiered ticketing structure aimed at accommodating a range of attendee interests. Presale access is set to begin February 12 for Verizon members and select fan club members, with general ticket sales opening February 14. Ticket offerings include standard admission as well as VIP packages that may feature perks like priority seating, exclusive meet‑and‑greet opportunities, and special convention memorabilia.
Looking Ahead
As DWTS Con 2026 prepares to take center stage in Palm Springs later this year, the event stands as an emblem of how long‑standing broadcast shows can innovate while honoring their legacy. For fans of Dancing With the Stars, the convention represents a chance to celebrate two decades of dance, drama, and cultural impact, and to step directly into the world that has entertained millions since the show’s inception.
In a media era increasingly defined by direct audience engagement and cross‑platform experiences, Dancing With the Stars Con 2026 may well become a blueprint for future fan‑centric events tied to television franchises.