Tango Etiquette
Tango is more than just a dance—it’s a shared experience that thrives on respect, connection, and etiquette. Here’s how to make your time on the dance floor enjoyable for yourself and those around you!
✨ Before the Dance...
1️⃣ Personal Hygiene & Self-Care
✔️ Fresh breath, clean attire, and proper hygiene are essential.
✔️ Avoid excessive perfume or cologne—some dancers may be sensitive to strong scents.
2️⃣ Show Interest in Dancing – Use the Cabeceo.
✔️ Engage in eye contact and use a subtle nod to invite or accept a dance.
✔️ Standing in a group may prevent others from inviting you to dance.
3️⃣ It’s OK to Say No to a Dance Request.
✔️ Declining a dance is never rude—you don’t need to explain.
✔️ If you decline, avoid accepting another offer during the same song—it’s considered impolite.
4️⃣ It’s OK to Be Rejected.
✔️ Respect when someone says no—everyone has preferences.
✔️ If the same person declines multiple times, take the hint.
5️⃣ Dress for the Occasion.
✔️ Milonga: Dress elegantly—black is always a great choice.
✔️ Practica: Wear comfortable and flexible clothing.
✔️ Shoes: Ensure your footwear provides good balance and allows for smooth pivots.
6️⃣ Leaders Escort Followers to the Dance Floor.
✔️ Regardless of who initiates, the leader should guide the follower onto the dance floor.
7️⃣ Enter the Dance Floor with Caution.
✔️ Always yield to dancers already in motion.
✔️ Never cut across the dance floor—walk around the edges.
During the Dance...
1️⃣ Respect the Line of Dance.
✔️ The flow of the dance moves counterclockwise—always follow it.
✔️ Avoid stopping abruptly or reversing direction unless necessary.
2️⃣ Keep a Safe Distance.
✔️ Maintain spatial awareness—don’t invade other dancers’ space.
✔️ Adapt your movements based on the crowd—avoid large, sweeping steps in crowded milongas.
3️⃣ Avoid Talking While Dancing.
✔️ Tango is about connection—conversations should wait until between songs.
4️⃣ NO Teaching on the Dance Floor.
✔️ Corrections belong in class or practica—not during a milonga.
✔️ If you must discuss a step, move to a side area away from other dancers.
5️⃣ Be Gentle & Respectful to Your Partner.
✔️ Maintain a comfortable embrace—don’t squeeze or push.
✔️ Leaders should never force movements; followers should feel free to express themselves.
✔️ Dancers should feel safe to express concerns if a partner makes them uncomfortable.
6️⃣ Apologize if You Bump into Someone.
✔️ Accidents happen—acknowledge them with a polite nod or verbal apology.
7️⃣ Avoid Leaving the Dance Floor Prematurely.
✔️ Unless it's an emergency, complete the tanda before leaving.
8️⃣ Always Thank Your Partner at the End of the Tanda.
✔️ The proper response to “thank you” is simply “thank you”—not “you’re welcome.”