DEADLINES + DETAILS

Registration Deadline: June 11, 2026
Routine entry closes 18 days before each event.

Studios do not have to compete at a regional event to compete at the Finals!

BEFORE THE EVENT

• February 1, 2026: Review reserved routines. Finals deposits are no longer refundable or transferable.
• 3 Weeks Prior: Pre-competition checklist emailed so you know what’s next
• 18 Days Prior: Final registration deadline (schedule creation begins the next day). Make sure to:
  1. Enter all routine details and complete changes
  2. Upload music files
  3. Submit full payment
• 7 Days Prior:
  • Full event schedule is posted
  • Personalized dancer schedules available in Dancer Hub
  • Photo & video pre-orders open at an extra discounted price
• 3 Days Prior: Know Before You Go email released with:
  • Venue + parking info
  • Prop drop-off details
  • “We’re Competing!” shareable graphic
  • Final event-specific reminders

DURING THE EVENT

• Doors Open: 1 hour before the first scheduled routine
• Props: Large props may be dropped off at the loading dock once doors open
• Results: Overall awards posted on touchscreen TVs after each awards set
• Live Stream: Watch every routine live for free on our website or app, complete with a continuous “next-up” screen
• Photos & Videos: Pre-order discounted media by entering your dancer’s name + birthday to view all available routines
• Event Tools: Use the FREE Showstopper App for schedules, updates, and orders

AFTER THE EVENT

• 1–2 Days After: Judges’ critiques and final results available in Studio Center
• 3-6 Days After: Routine photos and videos ready for preview/download
• 3–7 Days After: Winner award checks mailed to studios
• August 2026: 2027 Tour Registration opens

THE FINALS EXPERIENCE

Step into the spotlight with a competition experience like no other:

• Special Finals Moments:
  • America Loves to Dance Awards — the most prestigious award of the season, honoring the routines that truly wowed across all Finals locations
  • Opening Number featuring 2026 All-Star dancers
  • Senior Day celebrations + gifts
  • Pink Carpet Walk for Seniors — a walk to remember before they take their final bow
• Built for Every Studio and Every Dancer:
  • 5 competition levels, including a level for dancers with special needs and disabilities
  • 5 overall age divisions
  • 20+ category age divisions
  • 6 routine entry types
  • 15+ dance categories
  • Awards for both categories and overalls
• World-Class Production: Custom Marley stages, pro lighting, massive LED screens
• Free Live Stream: Every routine streamed with “next-up” screen updates
• Dynamic LED Backgrounds: 100,000+ visuals tailored to each performance
• Capture the Moment: Multi-camera videos and professional photos—each photo or video package starting at $9.99 per routine
• Professional Critiques: Honest, helpful feedback from industry pros
• Trophies + Medals: Every dancer gets a medal, every routine earns a trophy
• Special Opportunities: Convention scholarships, magazine features, All-Star invites, and even Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade selections
• Shop the Showstopper Store: Over 50 exclusive items dancers love—at prices you’ll appreciate
• Memorable Extras: Just Dance videos, photo ops, and fun surprises throughout the weekend

FOR TEACHERS & STUDIO OWNERS

• Your Dedicated Rep: We’re with you every step—from sign-up to awards
• Flexible Schedule Views: Dancer-specific, group views, and full overviews
• Teacher Perks: Free event program and access to our luxury Teacher Hospitality Suite (stocked all day!)
• Pink Carpet Walk for All Studios: Walk the pink carpet and celebrate your studio’s incredible season
• Early access to our 2026 Tour schedule and registration

2026 East Coast Finals Tentative Schedule