DanceBlue 2026 raises record-breaking $2.4 million

University of Kentucky students celebrate 24-hour dance marathon's continued growth and impact

Apr. 20, 2026 at 12:10am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph depicting a crowd of college students dancing on a basketball court, with soft pools of warm light and color creating a dreamlike, celebratory atmosphere.The vibrant energy and communal spirit of the DanceBlue marathon fill Rupp Arena as UK students come together to support pediatric cancer patients.Lexington Today

More than 700 University of Kentucky students gathered at Rupp Arena to dance and stand for 24 hours, raising a record-breaking $2,463,650.24 for the DanceBlue Hematology-Oncology Clinic. This year's total brings the organization's 21-year fundraising total to over $27 million.

Why it matters

DanceBlue has become a beloved annual tradition at the University of Kentucky, uniting students in support of pediatric cancer patients and their families. The event's continued growth and record-breaking fundraising totals demonstrate the community's deep commitment to the cause and the positive impact the organization has on the lives it touches.

The details

Beginning at 8 p.m. on Saturday, the 24-hour DanceBlue marathon took place on the floor of Rupp Arena, moving from its previous home at Historic Memorial Coliseum to accommodate more participants. Throughout the year, over 700 UK students fundraised and attended DanceBlue events to secure their spot in the no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon.

  • DanceBlue 2026 took place on April 19, 2026.
  • DanceBlue has been an annual event at the University of Kentucky since 2006.

The players

Josie Bailey

DanceBlue overall chair.

Morgan David

DanceBlue marketing chair.

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What they’re saying

“'DanceBlue's growth and its ability to reach more people each year is something that is truly amazing. As we enter a new decade of DanceBlue, we've been especially focused on expanding that impact so even more individuals can experience the hope, joy and love that comes from this event.'”

— Josie Bailey, DanceBlue overall chair

“'Witnessing the authentic joy that DanceBlue brings to the clinic is an experience that is impossible to describe. The joy seeps through every level of this organization. There are so many other things college students could occupy their time with, yet we have volunteers in the clinic every single day and students willing to dance 24 hours for something bigger than themselves. I've loved getting to surround myself with peers that have such strong hearts, seeing their impact in the clinic is why I continue to fall in love with DanceBlue every day.'”

— Morgan David, DanceBlue marketing chair

What’s next

DanceBlue organizers hope to continue expanding the event's reach and impact, with plans to establish Rupp Arena as the new permanent home for the 24-hour dance marathon.

The takeaway

DanceBlue's record-breaking fundraising total and growing participation demonstrate the University of Kentucky community's deep commitment to supporting pediatric cancer patients and their families. The event's ability to bring joy, hope, and a sense of purpose to all involved is a testament to the power of collective action and the difference a dedicated group of students can make.