International Dance Day

Categories:: Arts & Entertainment
Tags:: Activities Fun
Where:: World
Date change rule:: Every April 29
Holiday emoji:: 💃

International Dance Day invites everyone to move their feet and embrace the rhythm every April 29. From ballet to hip-hop, dance connects cultures and expresses human emotion. Take a class, attend a performance, or simply dance in your living room to celebrate this vibrant art form.

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History
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FAQs
Importance
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Traditions
Related
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Expected International Dance Day Deals

While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that dance studios, fitness centers, and activewear brands often offer special deals for International Dance Day. Look for discounts on classes from local studios and online platforms like Steezy Studio and DancePlug. Major retailers such as Nike and Lululemon may feature promotions on their dance and activewear collections. Brands like Capezio and Bloch, specializing in dance apparel, often have sales on shoes and attire. Even video game franchises like Just Dance might offer game discounts or new content. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 29 approaches.

Platform Guide for International Dance Day

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #InternationalDanceDay. Share your best dance moves or a quick tutorial for a popular routine.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #InternationalDanceDay. Post a reel showcasing different dance styles or a behind-the-scenes look at a rehearsal.

YouTube

Subscribe to @NationalToday for holiday video content. Upload a video of a dance performance, a choreography breakdown, or a dance challenge.

International Dance Day Hero

Jean-Georges Noverre

Born in Paris in 1727, Jean-Georges Noverre is widely regarded as the creator of ballet d'action, a form of ballet that emphasizes dramatic storytelling and expressive movement. His revolutionary ideas, detailed in his 1760 work 'Lettres sur la danse et sur les ballets,' transformed ballet from a decorative spectacle into a powerful art form. International Dance Day is celebrated on his birthday, honoring his profound influence on the world of dance.

History of International Dance Day

The Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI) established April 29 as International Dance Day in 1982 to highlight the amazing diversity and talent of dancers all over the globe. This date was chosen because it marks the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), the creator of modern ballet.

The International Theatre Institute created this holiday to promote dance across the world, to make people aware of the value of dance, and to enable the dance community to promote their work on a broad scale. The hope is for governments and opinion leaders to become increasingly aware of the value and importance of dance in all its forms and support it. On top of all this, International Dance Day was created for us to just enjoy dance for what it is and share the joy with others.

Every year the ITI selects an exemplary choreographer or dancer to write the official holiday message. Their website lists the location of their annual gala as well as other advertised events worldwide.

Evidence of dance has been found dating back 9,000 years and it has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. This holiday encourages people to celebrate their favorite type of dance while also learning new styles. There are dance styles for people of all ages and rhythm capabilities; so there’s no excuse for you not to get involved.

International Dance Day timeline

3300 BC

The first trace of dance

The earliest signs of dance are found painted on Egyptian tombs and Indian rock walls.

1832

Pointe shoes on point

Marie Taglioni premiers pointe shoes during her ballet performance in “La Sylphide”.

1950s–1970s

Dance Craze all the rage

With the rise in popularity of pop music, fad dances proliferated during these decades; have you heard of the Twist? the Mashed Potato? the Dog? the Hitch Hike?

2005

Dancing with the Stars debuts

Now in its 28th season, Dancing with the Stars debuted in 2005, capturing America’s love of dancing on the small screen by pairing a celebrity with a professional dancer while the viewers vote for their favorite dancers throughout the season.

How Businesses Can Celebrate International Dance Day

Local businesses can celebrate International Dance Day by hosting open house events or offering free trial classes at dance studios to attract new students. Retailers selling dancewear or activewear can run special promotions or collaborate with local dance groups for in-store demonstrations. Restaurants might feature themed music nights or even clear a small space for impromptu dancing, creating a lively atmosphere for patrons.

International Dance Day - Survey Results

Data gathered by a top Los Angeles PR Agency

FULL RANKING OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE TYPES OF DANCE #1: Hip hop (40%) #2: Ballroom (13%) #3: Swing (13%) #4: Latin (e.g. salsa, tango, etc.) (12%) #5: Belly dancing (7%) #6: Ballet (5%) #7: Traditional folk or indigenous dancing (African, Irish, Chinese, etc.) (5%) #8: Tap (4%) #9: Bollywood (2%)

FULL RANKING OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE DANCERS OF ALL TIME #1: Michael Jackson (24%) #2: Channing Tatum (12%) #3: Fred Astaire (9%) #4: Shakira (9%) #5: The dancers on Dancing With the Stars (6%) #6: Beyonce (6%) #7: Gene Kelly (5%) #8: Paula Abdul (5%) #9: Chris Brown (4%) #10: Madonna (3%) #11: James Brown (2%) #12: Other (15%)

FULL RANKING OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE DANCE MOVIES #1: Dirty Dancing (26%) #2: Footloose (13%) #3: Grease (13%) #4: Step Up (9%) #5: Happy Feet (7%) #6: Magic Mike (7%) #7: Save the Last Dance (6%) #8: Saturday Night Fever (5%) #9: West Side Story (5%) #10: Flashdance (3%) #11: Black Swan (3%) #12: Shall We Dance (2%) #13: Billy Elliot (1%) #14: Center Stage (1%)

International Dance Day Around the World
Country	Holiday	Occasion	Date
England	May Day	Children dance around decorated poles to welcome Spring.	May 1
Jamaica	Junkanoo	Junkanoo is a street parade with music, dance, and costumes.	Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
India	Holi	A colorful festival involving lots of music and dancing.	Different dates depending on the Hindu Lunar Calendar
India	World Bollywood Day	Home to one of the biggest movie industries in the world, the day is celebrated with glitz, glamor, and dancing!	September 24

Traditions of the Day for International Dance Day

The only tradition strongly observed on International Dance Day is dancing, dancing, and more dancing! It’s probably the one day you can break into dancing in the middle of the street, like in the movies, and not be called out for it. The whole vibe of the day is letting loose and moving to the beat of your favorite music.

Dance parties and dance competitions are, of course, very popular today so everyone can feel like they are in a “Step Up” movie. People with serious dance skills take over the dance floor and some even demonstrate unique dance sequences that are no longer trendy or from different cultures. Dance studios have great membership offers, which people eagerly take advantage of. Who knows? You may be the next Patrick Swayze!

Dance Day By the Numbers

30,000 – the number of people employed in the dance industry in the U.K. alone.

200 – the number of dance companies in the U.K.

80% – the percentage of professional dancers who have suffered one major injury during their career.

$4,000 – the cost of the most expensive ballet slippers.

2-3 – the number of pairs of shoes one ballerina wears per week.

30s – the average age most professional dancers retire due to strenuous physical demand.

93% – the percentage of all dancers who became dance teachers following a career-ending injury.

$1.8 million – the earnings per week of Michael Flatley — the world’s highest-paid dancer.

72,000 – the number of people who gathered at a fair in Ohio to do the chicken dance in 1996.

32 – the highest number of fouettés (swift turns on one foot) performed by ballerina Pierina Legnani for “Swan Lake.”

International Dance Day FAQs

When is International Dance Day?

In 2027, International Dance Day is observed on Thursday, April 29, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind with dance before the weekend.

How many people participate in dance globally?

Across the globe, dance continues to be a popular activity for fitness, cultural expression, and artistic performance. Data indicates that over 300 million people engage in dance as a hobby or profession.

What is the economic impact of the dance industry?

The economic footprint of dance is substantial, covering live performances, dance studios, merchandise, and media. In the U.S. alone, the performing arts sector, including dance, generates billions in economic activity and supports thousands of jobs.

Why was April 29 chosen for International Dance Day?

The date honors Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), a French dancer and ballet master who is considered the ‘father of modern ballet’ for his reforms in ballet production and choreography.

How To Celebrate International Dance Day 2021

Take a class
Have you ever tried Tango? How about Zambian dance? What about Lindy Hop? Maybe you aren’t really a big dancer but, don't worry, beginner classes are very forgiving. Regardless of your skill level, today is your day to broaden your horizons! Try a dance style you've never tried before.
See a show
Dance performances often feature beautiful costumes, bright colors, and amazing sets. The highest-grossing Broadway show, Lion King, has been seen by over 100 million people since it began in 1997. Even if you cannot see a show in person today, visit the International Theatre Institute’s website for videos featuring a variety of dance styles from around the world.
Encourage young dancers
Children can begin dance lessons at a very young age. Those who enjoy it and stick with it reap many benefits such as improved physical fitness, higher self-confidence, greater ability to listen and understand instructions, and stronger determination to persevere. Encourage your children to take a chance on dancing!

5 Types Of Dance Around The World

Ballet
Often referred to as the backbone of dance, ballet focuses on techniques that require a great deal of dedication to master.
Hip-Hop
Created in the 1970s, hip-hop went mainstream during the 1980s with styles known as breaking, popping, and locking.
Salsa
The signature hip moves in Salsa dancing come from the dancer stepping while keeping their upper body still and level.
Bharatanatyam
This traditional South Indian dance originated in Hindu temples and dates back to 1000 BC; it is usually a solo dance performed by women expressing religious and spiritual ideas.
Dragon Dance
A famous Chinese dance performed by dancers using poles to hold a long, flexible dragon figure; the longer the dragon, the more luck it is believed to bring to the community.

Why We Love International Dance Day

Confidence booster
Did you know dancing increases feelings of self-worth? A 2007 study showed children ages 11 to 14 who took creative movement classes reported improved motivation and attitudes. So, boost your confidence and get your groove on.
Brain booster
Just five minutes of dancing can increase your creativity. Dancers in one study showed improvements in both mood and creative problem-solving.
It's good exercise
Dancing can burn calories. Plus, you'll never get bored with your workout. Once you get the basics down, there's a whole world of options.