Tango Marathons vs. Tango Festivals: Which One’s Right for You?

If you’re passionate about tango, you’ve likely come across two main types of events: tango marathons and tango festivals. While both bring dancers together for memorable experiences, they differ in atmosphere, format, and purpose.

For those who don't like to read too much, the main difference is that Festivals include milongas as well as workshops, shows and sometimes orchestras as part of the experience, while marathons include milongas only, although often food is also included.

This article explores the key differences to help you decide which event might better suit your tango journey with the attempt to present arguments objectively. Keep in mind that some events blend characteristics or label themselves in ways that don’t strictly follow these categories—so treat this as a reference, not a rulebook.

1. A Brief Look at the Origins

   It’s worth noting that both marathons and festivals are relatively modern, foreign formats in the history of tango—they did not originate in Buenos Aires - as far as the author is aware (but might be wrong).

   • Tango marathons emerged in Europe and the U.S. as a way to replicate the Buenos Aires lifestyle of dancing frequently and intensely. In the tango capital, it's common to have multiple milongas a day, every day—so the idea of compressing several milognas into one weekend feels foreign there.

   • Tango festivals took inspiration from other dance genres, particularly ballroom, swing, and folk scenes, where festivals typically combine workshops, social dancing, and performances. They were developed as a way to celebrate and to bring international teachers to local communities, allowing dancers to improve their skills and enjoy a festive atmosphere, all in one place.

     
     

2. Size and Participation

   • Marathons typically have a limited number of attendees, with a strong emphasis on role balance (leaders and followers in equal or near-equal numbers). Many marathons are invitation-only or highly selective, accepting dancers based on their reputation, recommendations or prior connections.

   • Festivals tend to be larger, more open-access events. Role balance is often not enforced (though there are exceptions, such as Quiero Verte), and entry is usually based on ticket purchase rather than curation. Anyone can attend, making them more inclusive and diverse in participant backgrounds, dance styles, and nationalities.

   
   

3. Shows and Workshops

   • Marathons focus exclusively on social dancing, usually offering a sequence of milongas throughout the day—breakfast, afternoon, evening, and after-parties. They rarely include shows or workshops.

   • Festivals often feature a broad program including workshops, performances, and sometimes lectures or panel talks. Renowned teachers (Maestros) are invited not only to teach but also to perform. While some dancers find performances interruptive, others see them as sources of inspiration and artistic expression.

     Note: Some argue that one-off workshops won’t transform your dance, but they can broaden your horizons and plant seeds for deeper exploration.

     
     

4. Social Dynamics aka "Friendliness"

   1. Festivals are more anonymous and open, offering a great environment to meet new people. Whether you arrive solo or with a group, everyone’s in the same position: ready to connect, dance, and learn. They also offer ample opportunities to mingle in different type of settings: workshop, discussion, or at the bar sipping your favourite beverage. Some participants are more focused on socialising than dancing.

   2. Marathons may feel more intimate—but they can also feel cliquish. If you’re not part of the “inner circle,” it might take more effort to feel included. But they also often feel like reunions. Many attendees are friends of the organisers, so the environment is warm—if you're "in." Newcomers may find it harder to break into social circles.

      
      

5. Level of Dance

   • Marathons, due to the selection process, often position themselves as high-level. Otherwise they are organised as reunions. Many attendees are friends of the organisers, so the environment is warm—if you're "in", but offer less in terms of progression or mentorship.

   • Festivals attract a wide range of dancers, and for some reason have an opinion of lower level. However, since their scale is much bigger, it might seem that there are fewer high-level dancers. At the same time, often festivals attract high-level dancers and local teachers due to opportunity to learn from the best. Festivals also provide access to dancers from different backgrounds, experiences, schools and styles, and so this is a great opportunity to broaden ones horizons.

   Note: If you're looking to evolve as a dancer, festivals provide more resources and opportunities to interact with world-famous Maestros and champions as well as local teachers in a casual, often inspirational way. Both events offer ample milonga opportunity to dance your feet off.

   
   

6. Music

   Both events curate their music carefully, inviting tango DJs who align with the event's musical vision. Some festivals may feature live orchestras or themed sets. In the end, the only difference seems to be the likes of the organisers.

   
   

7. Food and Social Dining

   • Festivals often leave food to the individual. While many have bars at the venue, meals are typically on your own. That said, many dancers form spontaneous groups to explore local restaurants, offering opportunities to bond across different circles and experience local cuisine.

   • Marathons often include meals and snacks as part of the event, fostering a communal, retreat-like vibe. However, the experience can vary, again depending if you are familiar with the community.

     
     

8. Price and Value

   • Marathon passes typically cover milongas, food, and sometimes accommodation.

   • Festival passes, depending on the type includes milongas, workshops, shows, etc.

   From a cost-per-activity perspective, marathons can seem more expensive—but for those seeking nonstop dancing, the value is in the experience.

Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?

In short:

• Choose a marathon if you want to dance as much as possible and/or reconnect with old tango friends.

• Choose a festival if you want a more robust tango experience: dancing, learning, watching, and meeting new people from around the world.

Ultimately, both formats offer incredible value—just in different ways. Your choice might depend on what kind of tango experience you're looking for at this point in your tango journey.

I hope everyone attends all kinds of events and makes up their ow mind. There is such a plethora of different events out there, I am hoping everyone will find something that will make them happy and will not belittle the happiness of someone else who has different preferences. Important to note is also the respect that is due to the efforts of organisers of any kind of events. It is enormous, it costs money, energy, health and much more. To generalise and belittle one type of event is to disrespect the organisers and their efforts. I may personally disagree with concepts, styles, etc. but respect is due to all organisers who care about the community.