The Illinois Dance Education Organization (ILDEO) is thrilled to invite you to our fourth annual conference, taking place March 6–8, 2026 at Northern Illinois University. Designed as a three-day professional development retreat, the ILDEO Conference brings together dancers, dance educators, teaching artists, private sector dance studios and companies, educators from non-dance disciplines, and arts allies for a weekend of learning, dialogue, and connection.

Attendees can expect engaging workshops, panel discussions, and community-centered experiences that support both personal and professional growth. While single-day attendance is available, participants are encouraged to join us for the full three days to fully engage in the retreat-style structure and build meaningful connections across the field.

To support multi-day attendance, Northern Illinois University offers affordable on-campus hotel accommodations, making it easy to stay immersed throughout the weekend.

Whether you are deeply rooted in dance education, working across disciplines, or an ally invested in the future of arts education, we invite you to join us for this inspiring and collaborative experience.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CONFERENCE:

VIEW FULL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE HERE: https://www.canva.com/design/DAHB_LO3CBM/VTIBdnAUfCAtqqSFpxxplA/edit

DAY 1: Friday, March 6th (6pm-8:30pm)

DAY 2: Saturday, March 7th (8am-8:30pm)

DAY 3: Sunday, March 8th (8:30am-1:30pm)

**TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR BOGO DEAL {BUY ONE TICKET, BRING A GUEST FOR FREE ALL 3 DAYS}**

Please email administrator@ildeo.org with any questions. Thank you!