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National Dance Week

Slide into the groove: it's National Dance Week! Join in the rhythm, embrace your style and let's dance the week away!

Friday

2–11

October 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEAnnounced annually by National Dance Foundation

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYHobbies

SUBCATEGORYPerforming Arts

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Slide into the groove, it's National Dance Week! Starting from April 19, we enjoy a week-long celebration dedicated to the art of dance in all its wonderfully rhythmic forms. This celebration has been getting the world on its feet since 1981 when it was established by the United Dance Merchants of America. It’s an event that spans the globe, ensuring that every corner of the earth gets to enjoy a bit of the limelight under the dance spotlight. So, step out of your shell, embrace your style and let's dance the week away!

TIMELINE

National Dance Week Timeline

Dance Week Inception

National Dance Week was established by the United Dance Merchants of America to celebrate the art of dance.

First Global Celebrations

The event starts being celebrated globally, with dance enthusiasts around the world taking part.

Dance in Schools

National Dance Week becomes popular in schools, where teachers incorporate dance into their curriculums throughout the week.

Social Media Presence

With the advent of social media, National Dance Week gains more visibility as participants share their dances and events online.

Dance for a Cause

Charitable organizations begin using National Dance Week as a platform for fundraising events and promoting awareness for various causes.

Virtual Celebrations

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, most celebrations switch to virtual platforms, still successfully connecting dance communities worldwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Dance Week

Attend a local dance performance

Look out for any local dance companies or schools putting on performances during National Dance Week. It's a great way to show support for the local dance community and to enjoy a live performance.

JOIN

Join a dance workshop

Take the opportunity to learn a new dance style or improve your existing skills by signing up for a dance workshop. Organizations usually offer discounted or free classes during Dance Week.

HOST

Host a dance-themed movie night

Invite friends and family over for a night of dance-themed films. From "Dirty Dancing" to "Step Up" to "Singin' In The Rain", there's something for everyone to enjoy!

ORGANIZE

Organize a flash mob

Bring joy and surprise to your community by organizing a flash mob dance! You can do it at a public park, shopping center, or even a school. Don't forget to record this memorable event!

CREATE

Create a dance playlist

In honor of Dance Week, put together a dance-themed playlist and share it with your family and friends. You can pick from a variety of genres, artists and eras to make it diverse and enjoyable for all.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Dance Week

Provides Opportunities for Social Interaction

Giving everyone a reason to come together, National Dance Week provides ample opportunities for social interaction. Whether it's joining a dance workshop, attending a local performance, or organizing a flash mob, these experiences facilitate bonding with others who also share a love for dance, helping build community and lasting memories.

Celebrates the Art of Dance

National Dance Week brings attention to the important role that dance plays in culture and society. It celebrates this expressive art form in all its many forms and styles, and views dance as a universal language that unites people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Promotes Physical Fitness and Wellbeing

Dancing is not just fun, it's also a great way to stay active and maintain physical health. It's an aerobic activity that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, improves coordination and balance, and promotes overall wellbeing. Plus, learning a new dance routine stimulates memory and keeps the brain active!