Dance Camps Boost Confidence, Coordination, and Joy for Northern Virginia Families

The award-winning Dance Academy of Virginia offers summer dance camps that transform movement into play and build lifelong skills.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Dance Academy of Virginia (DAV) is celebrating its 5th year as the premier ballet and dance school in Northern Virginia, offering a range of programs for dancers of all ages and skill levels. As DAV opens enrollment for its 2026 Summer Dance Camps, the school is highlighting how its thoughtfully designed programs use dance to support coordination, focus, creativity, and confidence in a fun, supportive environment.

Why it matters

DAV's summer dance camps provide a practical and enriching solution for families looking to keep kids active and engaged over the summer. The camps are designed to spark excitement through themed activities and performance opportunities, helping children build confidence, coordination, and a positive relationship with movement that can last a lifetime.

The details

DAV's summer dance camps offer full-day programs with before and after-care, making them a reliable option for working families. Camps are built around themes that transform movement into play, with offerings ranging from high-energy K-Pop to story-driven favorites like Disney and Frozen. Campers explore a variety of dance styles, collaborate with peers, and participate in themed activities that encourage self-expression and teamwork. Each week ends with a performance for family and friends.

  • DAV is currently enrolling for its 2026 Summer Dance Camps.
  • DAV has been operating for 5 years as the premier ballet and dance school in Northern Virginia.

The players

Dance Academy of Virginia (DAV)

The premier ballet and dance school in Northern Virginia, with locations in McLean and Del Ray. DAV offers a range of programs for dancers of all ages and skill levels, including a dedicated Ballet Academy, a Dance Ensemble program, annual Nutcracker performances, and summer dance camps.

Katherine Horrigan

The founder of the Dance Academy of Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“Campers don't need to think of themselves as dancers to belong here. Confidence grows through participation, encouragement, and feeling supported, not from being perfect.”

— Katherine Horrigan, Founder, Dance Academy of Virginia (washingtonfamily.com)

“Dance isn't about fitting a mold. It's about building confidence, awareness, and a positive relationship with movement at any age.”

— Katherine Horrigan, Founder, Dance Academy of Virginia (washingtonfamily.com)

What’s next

Families interested in enrolling in DAV's 2026 Summer Dance Camps can visit the school's website at www.danceacademyva.com to learn more and sign up. Spots are limited and fill up quickly.

The takeaway

DAV's summer dance camps provide a fun, supportive, and structured environment for children to explore movement, build confidence, and develop a lifelong appreciation for dance. The camps' focus on themes, performance opportunities, and a welcoming community make them a valuable resource for Northern Virginia families.