The 2017 Empire Dance Championship is returning to the heart of New York City for four days of world-class performances and competition this week.

The event kicks off on Thursday at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square with The Empire Social Dance Gala, which includes a three-course sit-down dinner, general dancing, and performances from some of the best names in Latin dance such as Troels Bager and Ina Jeliazkova. The gala begins at 6 PM and goes until 11:30 PM ET. In addition to the social gala, Thursday's festivities will include the Pro/Am Smooth and Amateur divisions. 

On Friday, we'll see the Pro/Am Rhythm division, Collegiate Invitational Latin and Ballroom competitions, Amateur Open Smooth and Rhythm Championships, and the Pro Rising Star Smooth, Rhythm, Latin, and Ballroom Championships. 

Saturday's schedule includes the Pro/Am Latin divisions, Youth Amateur International Ballroom Championship, U-21 International Latin Amateur Championship, Professional Open International Ballroom Championship, Professional Open Amateur Rhythm Championship, and the Professional Open Cabaret show dance/Theatre Arts Championship. 

The event will close on Sunday with the Pro/Am Ballroom categories, the bulk of the Pre-Teen, Junior and Youth divisions, U-21 International Ballroom Amateur Championship, Professional Open International Latin Championship, and the Professional Open Amateur Smooth Championship.

The Empire Dance Championship will end with a show and, of course, a spectacular afterparty. All activities are taking place at the Marriott Marquis' West Ballroom.

Due to a high amount of late entries, the finalized schedule is still being worked on; however, you can find the official heat list here as it is continually updated.

This 2015 Empire Dance Championship promotion video will give you a taste of what's to come over the weekend.