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June 26-28, 2026

The Ultimate Finale: 2026 Nationals on Lake Michigan

The Artistry Tour Nationals is more than just a competition—it is the culmination of your season, a celebration of artistic achievement, and the perfect family summer vacation. Join us in St. Joseph, Michigan, for three days of world-class dance, unforgettable awards, and beautiful beach days on the shores of Lake Michigan.


Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College
2755 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
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High Stakes. High Art.

The Nationals Experience

This is where the nation’s top artistry studios converge. We are raising the curtain on the final showdown where technique, passion, and creativity are rewarded on the grandest stage.

On Stage & Performance Highlights:

  • The Final Showcase: Select high-scoring routines will be invited to perform again in a spectacular final night showcase, celebrating the best and most artistic performances of the week.
  • Opening Number Opportunity: Select dancers will be invited to learn and perform a high-energy Opening Number routine, which will kick off the highly anticipated Final Showcase.
  • Elevated Adjudication: All final competition rounds are judged by our most esteemed panel of professional IDA judges, guaranteeing expert, insightful feedback.
Master Classes Dance Rooms (1)

Nationals-Level Perks & Enrichment

 

We bring the core benefits that studio owners and dancers love about our regional tour to the Nationals stage, ensuring an organized and rewarding experience:

  • National Master Classes: Elevate your technique with exclusive master classes led by elite, professional faculty. (Full faculty and schedule details coming soon!)
  • The Improv Contest: Dancers are invited to participate in our thrilling Improv Contest, challenging creativity and spontaneity for cash prizes and bragging rights.
  • The Teacher's Oasis: Studio owners and directors can enjoy their dedicated lounge with complimentary refreshments, a dedicated staff liaison, and exclusive director-only events.
  • Premier Amenities: Enjoy large, assigned dressing rooms, a dedicated livestream around the venue for easy viewing, and transparent scoring throughout the competition.
  • Studio Director Benefit: As our thank you, studio owners/directors receive a complimentary hotel room at our host hotel for the duration of the event.

St. Joseph/ Benton Harbor, Michigan

Your Summer Vacation Starts Here: Michigan’s Sunset Coast

Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph is Southwest Michigan's premier beach town. It offers the perfect mix of Victorian charm, family activities, and stunning natural beauty—making it the ideal backdrop for a relaxed and memorable Nationals week. Families trust St. Joseph for their summer vacation because of its clean beaches, walkable downtown, and non-stop activities.
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Silver Beach County

Voted one of the "Top Ten Beaches" by Parents Magazine. Enjoy soft sand, swimming, and views of the historic North Pier Lighthouse.

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Whirlpool Compass Fountain

Michigan's largest splash pad, this free, interactive fountain is located right next to the beach—the perfect place for younger siblings to cool off and play safely.

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Silver Beach Carousel

A beautiful, historic, custom-designed carousel in the Silver Beach Center, offering a classic, memorable experience and pure fun for the whole family.

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Curious Kids’ Museum

A fantastic hands-on, indoor learning experience, perfect for little siblings and downtime between competition blocks.

Hotel Options

 

St. Joseph is a small lakeside town without large resort properties. We've partnered directly with two local hotels to secure discounted room blocks for The Artistry Tour, and we're also working with Lucid Travel to offer group rates at additional hotels in the area. For more flexibility and space, we recommend exploring vacation rentals on Airbnb and VRBO

The Boulevard Inn and Bistro

521 Lake Boulevard, St. Joseph, MI 49085
6.8 Miles/14 Minutes to venue

A room block is available for The Artistry Tour.

To book: Call 269-983-6600 and mention “The Artistry Tour.”

Room Rates (per night + tax)

  • City View Suite — $414 | 450 sq. ft. | Downtown view
  • Park View Suite — $459 | 600 sq. ft. | Park & lake views
  • Two-Bedroom Suite — Starting at $585 | ~900 sq. ft. | Mostly downtown views

Booking Deadline: May 26

Silver Beach Hotel

100 Main Street Saint Joseph, Michigan 49085 US
6.9 Miles/14 Minutes to venue

A room block is available for The Artistry Tour.

To book: Call 269-983-7341 and mention “The Artistry Tour.”

Booking Deadline: May 26

 

We also partnered with Lucid Travel for group discounts at other properties around St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, MI. 

FINAL SHOWCASE

Frequently Asked Questions

How do dancers get an Opening Number Invite for the Final Showcase?

Both at Regionals and Nationals, judges will select standout dancers to participate in our opening number during our Nationals Final Showcase. These invites will be handed out at awards. 

How do dances get selected for the Nationals Final Showcase?

Judges will invite a limited number of group dances from both regionals and nationals to participate in our Final Showcase. 

What does the Final Showcase cost?

Our Final Showcase is completely free for dancers and guests! 

When is the Final Showcase?

Our Final Showcase will be on Sunday, June 28, 2026. Time will be determined closer to Nationals. Please have your studio contact us for more information. 

Your 2026 Summer Finale Awaits!

Don't miss your chance to compete on the Sunset Coast and turn your dance event into the perfect family vacation. Spots for our National Showcase and Master Classes fill up quickly!
Register Now