When you register, you choose your Rueda level for the workshops. The congress typically has three main levels (sometimes numbered 2, 3, 4 rather than 1–3):

  • Improver (Level 2): You know the beginner fundamentals and standard basic figures, and can maintain rhythm and partner changes in both directions. This level builds up your repertoire beyond the basics.

  • Intermediate (Level 3): You comfortably dance most standard and intermediate Rueda figures (vacilala, sombrero, etc.), can handle calls in quick succession without returning to basic step, and can dance to faster music.

  • Advanced (Level 4): You have strong technique and Cuban motion, know all standard calls and many complex figures, learn new moves fast, and can keep a rueda flowing even with complex, up-tempo sequences. Some advanced workshops may have additional requirements (e.g. knowledge of specific structures or even ability to lead and follow if indicated)

In 2025, they also introduced an invitation-only Master level for a few select workshops beyond Advanced – essentially a Level 5 for very experienced dancers, admission by prior evaluation. Most people will be in levels 2–4 as self-selected.

Choosing the right level is important. SalsaNor provides detailed descriptions of each level’s requirements (as above) and asks that you honestly assess your ability and pick the level where you are comfortably challenged, not overwhelmed. It’s better to be at a level where you can dance confidently than to struggle in a too-high level (which can disrupt the class). If you sign up for the highest level (Advanced/Level 4), you may even be asked to confirm you meet the criteria for that level.

Upon arriving at the congress, you’ll get a color-coded wristband indicating your level. You are expected to attend workshops for your level. Can you take classes of a different level?
– You may join workshops at a lower level than your own if there is space in the class. For example, an Advanced dancer can sit in on an Intermediate class as a review, but should give priority to those registered at that level.
– You may NOT attend workshops at a higher level than the one you registered for. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure the integrity of each class. The instructors will plan the class for the stated level, and it won’t work if people in the room aren’t up to that level.

If after the first day you feel you chose the wrong level (too easy or too hard), you can request to change your wristband to a lower level at the info desk. Moving down is generally allowed if it will make you more comfortable. Moving up a level is not allowed once the event starts, to be fair to everyone. The organizers urge everyone to respect the levels so that each class can run smoothly as intended.

By sticking to the appropriate level, you and your fellow dancers will get the most out of the workshops. And remember: there’s plenty to learn at every level – even repeating fundamentals can improve your finesse – so resist the temptation to jump in over your head. The level structure is there to create the best learning environment for all.