Bristol Swing Fiesta

Code of Conduct

Bristol Swing Fiesta is a private, ticketed event. All attendees must wear their event wristbands at all times while inside the venues ("Bristol Beacon" and the “Folk House”). Stewards, Security Officers and door monitors may ask to see your wristband if it is not clearly visible.

We are committed to creating a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone attending Bristol Swing Fiesta.

Key contacts:

  • Kate & Steve Hall (Event Organisers): 07811 382669.

  • Lynsey Foster (Designated Event Representative and First Aider): 07907 198833. Lynsey is a trained first aider, and trained in conflict resolution, de-escalation, and customer service. Lynsey is available to support event staff, competitors, and attendees with any concerns that may arise.

To ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone, all attendees are required to follow the Code of Conduct outlined below.

  • Respect and Inclusivity:

    • Treat all attendees, organisers, and staff with kindness, respect and courtesy, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, ability, or any other characteristic.

    • Embrace the diversity of our dance community, fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

  • Personal Boundaries:

    • Always respect personal boundaries. Be mindful of your partner’s comfort level and do not initiate dips, lifts, or close contact without clear consent. If your partner asks you to stop any movement or behaviour, do so immediately. Should your partner raise a concern about inappropriate touch, listen respectfully without debate. Apologise if appropriate, and notify the key contacts named above if needed. If you experience any unwanted or inappropriate contact, please do not hesitate to speak with the key contacts in the first instance or a member of our staff. Your comfort and safety are important to us.

  • Responsible Behaviour:

    • All attendees are expected to behave respectfully and responsibly. Harassment, discrimination, or offensive behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes (but is not limited to) verbal, physical, or sexual harassment, hate speech, or any actions that cause distress or harm to others.

    • Rudeness or harassment of our staff and volunteers will not be tolerated.

    • Do not use derogatory or offensive language, gestures, or behaviour.

    • Please take personal responsibility for your own physical limits while dancing or participating in activities.

    • Your safety, and the safety of others is a priority. If you or someone nearby is injured or falls, notify Kate or Steve at 07811 382669 or our designated First Aider, Lynsey on 07907 198833. In the case of an emergency, call 999.

  • Food & Alcohol:

    • The venues do not permit attendees to bring their own food or drink (including alcohol) onto the premises. 

    • Please drink responsibly and be mindful of your consumption.

  • Personal Belongings, Clothing & Self-care

    • Please take responsibility for your personal belongings. Do not leave valuable items unattended. Neither the organisers nor the venue are liable for any lost or stolen property.

    • Please wear appropriate, comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for dancing. As this is a summer event, we encourage you to stay fresh and bring a change of clothes if needed. Make sure to stay hydrated - water refill stations will be available at the venues.

  • Safeguarding Children & Young People

    • We are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and young people at all times during the event.

    • All attendees under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a designated chaperone at all times while on the premises.

    • If a child or young person has specific needs or requirements, please inform the Event Organisers via email at bristolcityswing@gmail.com before arrival.

    • Unauthorised photography or video recording of minors is strictly prohibited.

  • Safety and Incident Reporting

    • Your safety and comfort are paramount to us. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, on or off the dance floor, or if you witness someone being harassed during Bristol Swing Fiesta, please contact Event Organisers, Kate or Steve on 07811 382669 promptly where your concerns will be heard in confidence. If you cannot reach them, please get in touch with our Designated Event Representative, Lynsey on 07907 198833, or any of our event staff at the registration desk (during opening hours) or at the DJ Booth when the registration desk is closed.

    • If you have concerns before the event, you’re welcome to email us at bristolcityswing@gmail.com and we’ll arrange a time to speak with you.

  • Consequences of Violations:

    • Violation of this code of conduct may result in a warning, temporary suspension, or permanent removal from the event, without refund. The Event Organisers reserve the right to take any action they deem appropriate to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants.

  • Event Photography & Videography

    • Photography and videography will be conducted throughout the event by our official event team. Attendees are also welcome to take their own photos and videos for personal use.

    • We will be sharing event highlights and updates via our Bristol City Swing Instagram and Facebook Stories throughout the weekend.

    • If you prefer not to be tagged in any official event photos or videos, please let us know by emailing bristolcityswing@gmail.com

Dance Etiquette

  • Practice good personal hygiene and you are likely to be a more popular dancer. Shower before the event, wear deodorant, and freshen up your breath. If you sweat a lot, bring an extra shirt. Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and use the hand sanitiser available.

  • West Coast Swing is a casual dance and wear clothing that you are comfortable in. We tend to wear shoes with a suede sole, or trainers where you put stickers on the sole to help you spin. Avoid rubber soled shoes or shoes that stick to floor.

  • West Coast Swing is danced in a slot: run the slot in the same direction as everyone else and avoid bumping into others taking care of your partner especially when the dancefloor is busy.

  • Asking someone to dance is an invitation, and it is okay to decline an invitation. West Coast Swing does not assume the role based on gender so ask your partner if they wish to lead or follow.

  • Don’t give unsolicited feedback to your partner during class or social dancing, even if it comes from a good intention, unless someone’s safety is at stake. Everyone learns at a different pace and there are various levels of dancers that attend our events.

  • Be inclusive and friendly: Don’t be afraid to invite others to dance with you – everyone is there to dance! Maybe strike up a conversation with someone off the dance floor? Trying to connect with others can make dancing more fun and foster a community where everyone feels included.

  • Stay hydrated: Dancing can be physically demanding, so drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the event. This will help you maintain your energy levels and avoid dehydration.