Dancing with the Valdosta Stars Returns April 18

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Valdosta State University's annual Dancing with the Valdosta Stars competition is returning on April 18, 2026 to raise scholarship funds for students in the performing arts. Eight local 'star' and 'pro' dance couples will compete for the Audience Favorite Award, with attendees able to vote by text or online donations.

Why it matters

Dancing with the Valdosta Stars has become a beloved annual tradition that provides crucial scholarship support for VSU's music, theatre, and dance programs. The event not only raises much-needed funds, but also celebrates the local performing arts community and engages the broader Valdosta community.

The details

The event will take place at 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 18 at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center. Admission is $125 per person or $1,200 for a table of 10, with limited $1,500 sponsorship tables also available. Attendees will receive a $125 token to vote for their favorite dance couple, with additional votes accepted through cash, check, text, or online donations. The event has raised over $575,000 for scholarships since it began in 2012.

• Dancing with the Valdosta Stars 2026 will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
• Early voting has already started online and by text.

What’s next

Early voting is already underway online and by text, with the final in-person competition and voting taking place on April 18, 2026.