We're delighted that you are here. Immerse yourself in the world of Pure Balboa and Bal Swing for a whole weekend.
Tap a day to see what's on
Please note: the bar accepts no cash.
Each group is named after a key figure from the golden era of Balboa. See Group Details below!
17:30 Start at Münster Fähre „Leu" — swim down to kHaus / Klingental Fähre „Vogel Gryff".
Store your things in the K-Haus and bring your dry bag. You can buy beautiful dry-bags at the Friday party or pre-order.
For the boat tour, we rent the MS Christoph Merian, the colorful party boat of the Basler Personenschifffahrt. All participants on one boat, with a large outside deck for dancing and various seating areas. The perfect end to a beautiful summer weekend!
Bring your own food on board if you like. Please buy drinks at the bar – this also supports the event!
💡 Looking for restaurants, buvettes, hotels and travel tips? Check our Food & Travel guide.
Our wonderful teachers, musicians & crew
Each group is named after a key figure from the golden era of Balboa. The order does not represent the level of experience. Whatever your group: enjoy, learn, celebrate together!
Lolly Wise (1915–2000s) was a dynamic dancer from the "Big Four" group. He gave his name to the iconic "Lollies" in Bal-Swing and was known for precise footwork.
Watch them dance →Natalie Esparza was an original-era Swing and Lindy dancer. She was celebrated for her stylish and versatile following, contributing significantly to the Bal-Swing scene.
Watch them dance →Maxie Dorf (1921–2000) was a member of the swing dance troupe "Big Four" and an icon of Balboa. With flowing movement and musicality, he helped shape the dance style like few others.
Watch them dance →Anne Mills (1922–2018) was one of the most famous Balboa followers in history. She was admired for her elegance, technique, and charisma.
Watch them dance →Willie Desatoff (1921–2005) was one of the most respected Pure Balboa dancers of the original Southern California scene. Known for his effortless style and tight footwork.
Watch them dance →Inez Thompson was a graceful and smooth Pure Balboa follower from the original Southern California scene. Known for her distinctive bent-knee posture and continuous, grounded movement.
Watch them dance →Hal Takier (1917–2012) was one of the most innovative dancers of his time. Together with Betty, he developed numerous creative figures for Balboa.
Watch them dance →Source: Swungover
Share your swing at the Balboa Mix & Match and win amazing prizes! The format means you dance with a random partner.
Prelims & Finals on Saturday evening. No sign up required.
Prelims: All dancers on the dance floor, different tempos, change of partner, tap-in.
Finals: 6–8 leaders & followers, dancing to live music.
Be yourself and show your Balboa!
Prizes: Passes to Jitterbugs Delight 2027 and Balboa Delight 2027.
Balboa Delight is committed to providing a safe and welcoming space for all participants. Whether you need guidance, support, someone to talk to, or have questions about the Code of Conduct – we're here to help and happy to listen.
Reach out to a member of our care team or contact us via info@baseljitterbugs.ch.
Our international dance scene is a wonderful place to enjoy life and express yourself through dancing. But we can do even better!
We are the most privileged people on earth. Let's take a moment to show gratitude and give back to the community, the planet and the African American Culture that created the dances.
We're donating 5 CHF from every workshop pass to offset CO₂ emissions, support Black African Culture and dancers in less fortunate situations.
Together we can make the Delights more sustainable.
We hope you're having a great time at Balboa Delight and appreciate you sharing your experience.
Tag us @baseljitterbugs and use the hashtags
#balboadelight #baseljitterbugs
Thank you!