First of all, read last month's article "How to Survive a Convention" for tips on physically keeping up with all the activities.
Second, if at all possible, register for the convention as far in advance as possible. If possible, register at the hotel nearest to the convention hall. It may cost a little more money but you will save time and energy by being on the spot for all the events. Usually this hotel will be the first to book up so be quick. This hotel hopefully will have amenities like laundry service, free parking for guests, swimming pool, sauna, and whirlpool. It may also be within walking distance of the convention hall, saving you parking costs and giving you the freedom to go back and forth to your room several times a day to change clothing or rest.
If a schedule of events is sent to you with your registration packet, take advantage of some advance planning. As suggested in last month's article, highlight your choices. Even if this changes at the last minute, you will still be able to quickly find the activities you are interested in and change your plans accordingly.
The daytime activities usually include non-stop dancing, clinics and workshops, & a fashion show. Save the dancing for the evening. Instead consider an introduction workshop to your next dance level or a refresher workshop in your current level. Try a workshop or introduction to round dancing, clogging, contra, line dancing or country western dancing. This is a great time to try something new.
Usually there will be a sewing clinic or a fashion show. This is a great time to rest your feet and get some great creative ideas for dressing. Of course, there will be the exhibition hall with all the dance vendors. Take a shopping break and pick up a new outfit or another pair of dance shoes, a new badge or a bumper sticker for your car.
The evenings will be filled with dances (sometimes to live music) and later on, after-parties. Schedule these in first. The dances usually require square dance attire. The after-parties will vary. If they allow casual attire, take advantage and relax! This is a great time to meet up with old friends or follow up on new friendships that were struck during the day.
If there are non-dancing activities available, don't forget to check these out as well. Sometimes, you can get a tour of the city or a dinner/dancing cruise. These activities will cost extra but they are usually lots of fun and not to be missed!
Go To Page: 1 2
