The most enjoyable way to experience the Austin Belly Dance Convention is to spend the weekend at the hotel along with other participants, which by the way, includes the Star instructors. Staying with us makes rolling out of bed to class and partying and schmoozing into the wee hours easy and relaxing. Plus, by staying at the Holiday Inn-Midtown you are helping to support and maintain a very important business relationship between the ABDC and the hotel.

Does the ABDC have a room block?

Yes! The ABDC has a discounted rate for its participants. The ABDC 2018 rates are $109.00 for 1 King bed or 2 Double beds.

How can I reserve a room?

You can reserve a room on-line through the Holiday Inn-Midtown. Please use this link, as it will automatically generate the “ABD” code. You may also call (512) 451-5757 or (888)-300-6273 and refer to the group name of “ABD.” That’s not a typo. The code is only three letters.

When do I need to reserve a room in order to receive the ABDC rate?

You will need to have reserved a guest room at the Holiday Inn-Midtown by May 8, 2018. There is a limited number of rooms, so reserve early.

Is there some place to eat nearby or on the premises?

Yes. There is a list on our Location Info section under the More tab in our navigation menu. The Holiday Inn-Midtown’s Red Pepper Bar and Grill is a sit down/order out restaurant. There is also a sundries shop for snacks. The on-site restaurant keeps normal business hours.

Is there a cash bar?

Yes. Holiday Inn-Midtown’s Lobby Bistro Bar is a cool place to grab a quick bite or sit and have a drink with your new ABDC friends. Also, there may be events in the evening during the ABDC where you may have a cash bar.

Can I bring my own snacks and water?

Yes. You may bring your own snacks and water. We will also have free water available throughout the convention space.

Where can I park?

There is plenty of FREE parking at the Holiday Inn-Midtown in Austin, TX.

Does the hotel have a shuttle to the airport?

No. The hotel does not have a shuttle to the airport. But there are several options In addition to renting a car from one of the car rental services at the Austin Bergstrom International Airport. Services in the Austin area are SuperShuttle (1-800-BLUE-VAN) and Austin’s new rideshare programs: Lyft and Uber.

Does the hotel have a free shuttle to downtown Austin?

Yes. The Holiday Inn-Midtown has a shuttle service that can take you within a 5 mile radius. That will get you to famous 6th Street for live music and bar hopping, when you are not dancing at the ABDC.

How far is the airport from the hotel?

They are less than 11 miles apart.

Workshops

What should I bring to a workshop?

Staying hydrated and fueled is important to keep your energy up throughout the day, so make sure you drink lots of water and eat. For all workshops, bringing a pen and paper is always good for note taking. Some workshops also request specific items, such as props, skirts, and zils. So please check the workshop description for details.

What should I wear to the workshops?

For workshops, you should wear clothing that allows you to move. Some participants go simple and wear comfy workout clothes; others pull out the stops. It is up to you! For the evening Gala shows, nice clothes are always appreciated. Perhaps wear something that you bought at the ABDC?

What skill level do I need to be in order to attend the ABDC?"

The ABDC has workshops for all skills and for many styles. In fact, most workshops are geared towards all skill levels.

Are there private lessons available with the ABDC instructors?

Yes. The ABDC has room space for private lessons. Contact the instructor directly for availability and cost.

Can I videotape the workshop?

Each instructor has his/her policy. Always ask the instructor before taking pictures or videotaping.

What happens if the workshop I want is sold out on-line?

Fill out the wait list form. It is on a first come, first serve basis. If a space opens up in the workshop the ABDC will contact you via email. You will have 48 hours to register for the workshop.

If I cannot make it to the ABDC, can I transfer my workshops to a friend?

Yes. The ABDC permits a one-time only registration replacement before June 1, 2018. Registrant may post on the ABDC facebook page to find replacemet. Email to the ABDC (admin@theabdc.com): Original purchaser's name and Eventbrite order number, New ticket holder’s name and Email. After June 1, 2018, all requests should be made at the ABDC’s Front desk during the convention.

Can I transfer part of my package to a friend?

No. You cannot transfer part of your package. If it is within the refund policy timeframe, we can apply your funds to individual workshops or transfer the package to another person. For further details, visit the ABDC’s refund and cancellation policy.

What is the ABDC refund and cancellation policy?

Visit our website to see all the detailed information about the ABDC’s refund and cancellation policy.

Shows

What should I wear to the shows?

Semi-formal or “Evening out with the Ladies” clothes are always appreciated. Do you really need a reason to dress up? Just have fun with it! And we encourage you to wear items that you bought at the ABDC.

Once I have purchased show tickets, where can I pick them up?

The ABDC front desk will have your tickets available at will call the day of the show. You may also bring a print out of your eventbrite receipt. If you are an attendee to a workshop, your registration envelope will have your tickets for the shows you have purchased.

How can I dance in the Friday or Saturday evening Gala?

On your ABDC performance application. check the box that you are interested in performing at Friday’s "Keep Austin Shimmying" Gala and/or Saturday's "Austin Raqs" Gala. These are professional level shows with the ABDC's featured instructors and guests. Participants are chosen from the Performance Applications.

How can I dance in the ABDC Showcase?

On your ABDC performance application. check the box that you are interested in performing at the ABDC Showcase. Workshop registrants are chosen on a first come-first served basis. Remember that you must have at least 4 hours registered at workshops to perform in the showcase.

Why do I have to register for at least 4 hours of workshops in order to perform?

We want to make sure our showcases are available for convention participants. We feel it is important to practice, learn, and perform our dance so we create a safe environment for all skill levels during the showcases. And with a live band, you have a chance to expand your performance experience.

Can I dance more than once?

Depending upon space allotment and registration, we may have space for you to perform a solo and group dance. You will need to contact the ABDC producers at perfomers@theabdc.com.

What happens if I am signed up for a workshop during the ABDC Showcase times, but I want to perform?

On the performance application form, there is a spot for you to indicate which workshops you are taking Saturday and Sunay afternoon. We will do our best to not schedule your performance during your workshops. But beware, that the ABDC showcase performances and afternoon workshops are concurrent.

Is there a dressing room?

Yes. Please check in with the ABDC front desk for location.

How big is the ABDC stage and how can I enter?

The stage measures 24 feet by 16 feet and is raised about 3 feet off the ground. It is a free standing stage with a marley cover. Stairs are on each side of the stage place closer to the back curtain of the stage.

Are there any practice rooms available?

Yes. The ABDC has a 440 sqft practice room that is available for rental. Cost of practice room is $10 per 50 minutes. During the event, check with the ABDC front desk for availability and set up a time.

Can I take any pictures or videotape of the shows?

There is no unauthorized videography or photography allowed during any show. People videotaping or taking photography without permission will be asked to leave and admission will not be refunded.

Can I purchase pictures or videotapes of the shows?

The ABDC has professional photographers and videographers. You will be able to purchase pictures and videos of your individual performance. There are not videos for sale of entire shows.

Is there an after-party at the ABDC?

In addition hanging out at the hotel bar, there are two “after-parties.” On Friday, Z-Helene presents the ABDC's afterparty at Kick Butt Cafe right down the street from the hotel. Join us for a Saturday night downtown after party Darker Shimmy at Elysium.

Shopping

Will there be shopping at the ABDC?

Oh my goodness, YES! The ABDC has a collection of hand-picked vendors. See our website for a full list.

What kind of items will be for sale?

The ABDC strives to have a variety of different merchandise, such as music, props, costumes (of various styles and costs), practice wears, and jewelry. We also often have masseuse, tarot readers, and photographers. You can visit the vendors website or facebook page from this full list.

Is shopping free to the public, and if so, during what times?

Yes. Vendors outside the ballroom are free during all the ABDC shopping hours. Vendors inside the ballroom are open to the public for free on Friday from 12:00-5:00 pm; Saturday from 12:30-5:30 pm; and Sunday 1:00-3:00 pm.

Do vendors take credit cards?

Some vendors take credit cards and others do not. It is always a great idea to bring cash.

Does the ABDC take credit cards or only cash/checks?

Yes. The ABDC will take credit cards, but cash is always a safe bet. The ABDC does not accept checks.

Is there an ATM in the hotel?

Yes. The Holiday Inn-Midtown has an ATM in the lobby. But please note that many people do use this ATM and it may become cash-less as the weekend progresses.

How can I vend at the ABDC?

Please fill out the ABDC vendor application and then the ABDC staff will get back to you.

Should I bring a hand truck to bring in my merchandise from my vehicle to the convention?

Yes. Carts at the hotel are in high demand. The Holiday Inn only has two luggage carts for guests to use.

FAQS

VENUE AND TRANSPORTATION

WORKSHOPS

SHOWS

SHOPPING

Venue, Rooms, Food, and Transportation:

Where is the ABDC located?

Where can I stay?

Why should I stay at the Holiday Inn-Midtown?