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National Dance Day

Get grooving and join in on the fun of National Dance Day - dance your way to health, happiness, and self-expression!

Saturday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThird Saturday in September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYHobbies

SUBCATEGORYPerforming Arts

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to get your groove on as National Dance Day is just around the corner! Celebrated every Third Saturday in September, this day has been around since 2010 and is dedicated to celebrating the joys of dance. From folk dancing to hip hop, there are so many styles that you can learn and enjoy. Not only is dance a great form of exercise and an amazing way to express yourself, it’s also been proven to improve mental wellbeing and reduce stress levels. So don't miss out on this opportunity to let loose and have some fun!

TIMELINE

National Dance Day Timeline

Establishment of National Dance Day

The Dizzy Feet Foundation, co-founded by Nigel Lythgoe, the producer of So You Think You Can Dance, launched National Dance Day to promote health and wellness.

Congressional Recognition

U.S. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced a resolution which officially recognized the holiday in the United States.

First National Dance Day Special Event

A formal event was orchestrated by the Dizzy Feet Foundation at Los Angeles Center Studios, featuring performances by dance groups from all around the country.

National Dance Day Goes International

National Dance Day officially expanded to international participation, with classes, demonstrations, and performances happening worldwide.

Date Change

The holiday was moved from the last Saturday in July to the third Saturday in September to encourage participation in communities and schools.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Dance Day

Organize a flash mob

Gather a group of friends and choreograph a dance to perform in a public space. Pick a time and day and get the word out. Before you know it, you’ll have a crowd of people joining in.

Go to a dance performance

Head out to your local theater or arts center and see what dance performances they may have on offer. From ballet to contemporary dance, there are so many styles to explore.

ATTEND

Attend a dance party

Check out your local clubs or events for dance parties or DJ nights. Shake it up with some of your favorite tunes.

TAKE

Take a dance lesson

Whether you're looking for hip hop, salsa, swing, or tango, there is sure to be something for everyone. Find a local studio and try something new!

CREATE

Create a music video

Come up with your own unique choreography and film it! You can create something totally unique and share it with the world.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Dance Day

Everyone can participate in National Dance Day

National Dance Day is an opportunity for everyone - from beginners to professional dancers - to come together and celebrate their love of dancing. Join in with some Zumba classes or grab your family and friends for an evening of cha cha sliding. No matter what style you choose, it'll be an experience you won't forget!

Dancing brings joy

There's nothing like getting out of your comfort zone and letting loose on the dance floor. It can be a great way to express yourself, have fun with friends, and get some exercise all at once! Whether you love freestyle dancing or prefer more traditional styles, there's something for everyone.

Dancing is a form of communication

Dancing isn't just about making shapes and grooving to the music. It's also a form of communication - you can use body language and facial expressions to express emotion, as well as convey a message or story. Plus, it's a great way to meet new people and share cultures!